Environmental Services/Housekeeping Technician at Sanford Health - Vermillion, SD

Role Overview

As an Environmental Services/Housekeeping Technician at Sanford Health in Vermillion, South Dakota, you play a crucial role in maintaining a clean, safe, and sanitary environment for patients, residents, visitors, and staff. Your work directly impacts the health and well-being of everyone in the facility. This PRN (as needed) position offers flexibility while allowing you to contribute to a vital healthcare mission.

Day in the Life

Each day will bring a variety of tasks, ensuring that the healthcare environment remains pristine. Here's what a typical day might look like:

• Morning: You'll start by reviewing your assigned areas and prioritizing tasks based on immediate needs. This might involve cleaning patient rooms after discharge, sanitizing operating rooms, or addressing spills and other urgent situations.
• Mid-day: You'll continue to work through your assigned areas, performing tasks such as emptying wastebaskets, sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, and polishing floors. You'll also ensure that restrooms are clean and well-stocked.
• Afternoon: You'll focus on more intensive cleaning tasks, such as waxing floors or deep cleaning common areas. You'll also restock supplies and ensure that your equipment is clean and in good working order.
• Throughout the day: You'll adhere to strict infection control and safety guidelines, using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and following established procedures for handling hazardous materials. You’ll also be responsive to requests from staff and patients, providing excellent customer service.

Why Vermillion, South Dakota?

Vermillion is a vibrant college town located in southeastern South Dakota, offering a unique blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Home to the University of South Dakota, Vermillion boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community. The cost of living is affordable, and the quality of life is high. Residents enjoy easy access to outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, fishing, and hunting. Vermillion is also within driving distance of Sioux Falls, the state's largest city, providing access to even more shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Career Path

While this is a PRN position, Sanford Health is committed to employee growth and development. With experience and dedication, you may have the opportunity to advance to positions with increased responsibilities, such as:

• Environmental Services Team Lead: Supervise and train other housekeeping staff, ensuring that all tasks are completed efficiently and effectively.
• Environmental Services Supervisor: Oversee the entire housekeeping department, managing staff schedules, budgets, and inventory.
• Infection Control Specialist: Focus on preventing the spread of infections within the healthcare facility, implementing and monitoring infection control protocols.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position is estimated to be $27,000 - $38,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. In addition to competitive pay, Sanford Health offers a comprehensive benefits package to its employees, including:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrue time off for vacation, illness, and personal needs.
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) or similar retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for employees and their families.
• Life Insurance: Basic and supplemental life insurance options.
• Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Tax-advantaged accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Financial assistance for continuing education and professional development.
• Employee Discount Programs: Discounts on various products and services, including travel, entertainment, and retail.

Sanford Culture

Sanford Health is known for its commitment to providing exceptional patient care and creating a supportive and collaborative work environment. The organization values teamwork, respect, and innovation. Employees are encouraged to share their ideas and contribute to the improvement of processes and services. Sanford Health is also dedicated to community involvement, supporting various charitable organizations and initiatives.

How to Apply

To apply for the Environmental Services/Housekeeping Technician position at Sanford Health in Vermillion, South Dakota, please visit the Sanford Health careers website. Create an account, upload your resume and cover letter, and complete the online application form. Be sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills, and explain why you are interested in working for Sanford Health.

FAQ

1. What are the essential job functions? Maintaining a safe and sanitary environment, following infection control and safety guidelines, and performing various cleaning tasks.
2. What is the physical demand of the job? Considerable use of arms and legs, moving the whole body, lifting up to 40-50 lbs, and being on your feet for most of the shift.
3. What are the work hours? Vary depending on patient/resident needs, including overtime, nights, days, weekends, and holidays.
4. What is the required education? High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
5. What experience is preferred? Minimum of six months housekeeping or commercial cleaning experience.
6. What skills are helpful? Computer skills, knowledge of cleaning materials, equipment, methods, and chemicals.
7. What personal qualities are important? Strong customer service, communication, and interpersonal skills.
8. Is previous healthcare experience required? Previous custodial experience in a healthcare environment is preferred.
9. What kind of training is provided? On-the-job training in infection control, safety procedures, and cleaning techniques.
10. What is the dress code? Sanford Health provides uniforms, and employees are expected to maintain a professional appearance.