New

Janitor

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement

Jun 11, 2026
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community. Job Summary The position is temporary (6 months), full-time, and benefits-eligible, located at Palomar Observatory in San Diego, CA. The position works under the supervision of the Facilities group supervisor.Under limited direction, the position will work independently or in collaboration with other members of the observatory staff to perform routine maintenance on the Palomar Observatory's physical plant.Duties include, but are not limited to, cleaning and maintenance of observatory buildings, assisting others in grounds maintenance, snow/ice removal, and general janitorial duties. Position is expected to communicate effectively with the observatory's management, staff, and the general public. Essential Job Duties Cleaning and surface maintenance of floors, restrooms, and public areas. Assisting staff as assigned in grounds maintenance and snow/ice removal. Non-hazardous waste collection and management. Opening and closing of public visitor's facilities. Cryogenic storage vessel filling and transport. Assist with mirror cleaning and coating. Assist with instrument exchanges on telescopes when needed. Other duties as assigned. Basic Qualifications High school diploma or GED. Must have a valid California driver's license, and maintain throughout course of employment Must be able to lift 50 lbs. of facility maintenance equipment, tools, and supplies. Must be able to work outside in inclement weather, in confined and/or elevated spaces, at an elevation of 6000'. Must be able to safely use basic tools. Successful completion of background check and physical exam. Preferred Qualifications Previous facility/building maintenance experience. Previous experience with industrial cleaning techniques. Able to safely operate power cleaning equipment such as scrubbers, polishers, and carpet cleaners. Required Documents Resume Hiring Range $21.00 - $24.00 Per Hour The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training. As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks. EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf. Disability Accommodations Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position. If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu. Additionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.