Custodian

About the role

Bear Real Estate Group is currently hiring for a Custodian for our property, East National Flats in Milwaukee, WI. The Residential Porter is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness, safety, and appearance of assigned multi-housing communities. This position focuses on groundskeeping, trash management, janitorial cleaning of common areas, and vacant unit cleaning support so apartments and amenities are “show-ready” and residents experience a well-maintained community.

Responsibilities

• Groundskeeping & Curb Appeal: Pick up litter and debris daily; keep sidewalks, breezeways, entries, parking areas, and dumpster enclosures clean and presentable; maintain community curb appeal by keeping exterior common areas neat, reporting hazards, and supporting seasonal exterior upkeep; assist with light landscaping tasks as assigned (weeding, edging, watering, basic bed maintenance) and coordinate with vendors by reporting needs to the Property Manager.
• Janitorial – Common Areas & Amenities: Clean and maintain interior common areas such as clubhouse/leasing office (as applicable), hallways, stairwells, elevators, laundry rooms, fitness rooms, and shared restrooms; sweep/mop/vacuum floors; wipe down glass, doors, handrails, and other high-touch surfaces; stock restroom/common-area supplies (paper goods, soap) per site standards and notify supervisor when supplies are low.
• Trash Management & Waste Areas: Maintain cleanliness of trash rooms, compactor areas, and dumpster enclosures; replace liners and remove overflow as needed; support bulk item and move-out debris management by coordinating with the Property Manager for hauling or vendor scheduling.
• Vacant Unit Cleaning & Turn Support: Support unit turnover by cleaning vacant apartments for readiness (basic cleaning, trash removal, wipe-down, floors, bathrooms/kitchen surfaces) and reporting any maintenance needs found during cleaning; perform “show-ready” touch-ups within porter scope (e.g., basic wipe-downs, sticker removal, sweeping/mopping, cleaning mirrors/windows); communicate unit readiness status to the Property Manager and/or maintenance team.
• Work Orders, Inspections & Documentation: Assist with routine site walks/inspections; document deficiencies (photos/notes as required) and report findings to the Property Manager; support completion tracking for cleaning/turn tasks and assist with logs as assigned (e.g., snow removal documentation, light checks, pool/common-area logs); report damages, hazards, and supply needs promptly.
• Seasonal Support & Community Standards: Assist with seasonal tasks such as snow/ice response (shoveling/salting), leaf removal, and exterior cleanup; follow community standards for appearance, safety, and resident experience; support other nearby communities as assigned; cleaning of the swimming pool, cool decking, etc; assist with seasonal planting as necessary and determined by the Property Manager.

Requirements

• Physical Demands: Frequently required to stand, walk, climb, bend, stoop, kneel, or crouch; occasionally required to sit and work in confined spaces; regularly required to use hands and fingers to handle tools and equipment; frequently required to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds; occasionally more with assistance; may work in elevated or precarious positions.
• Work Environment: Regular exposure to outdoor weather conditions, mechanical systems, dust, and moderate noise levels; occasional exposure to fumes, airborne particles, or cleaning agents.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical coursework or certification preferred.
• 0–2 years of general maintenance or trade experience.
• Willingness to learn and follow guidance from senior maintenance staff.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation are required.

Benefits

• 401(k) with company match, plus annual merit-based increases.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life insurance, Long-Term Disability, and FSA and HSA options.
• Generous paid