Housekeeping /Utility Boy Job Description
A utility boy or utility worker performs a variety of tasks to
support daily operations, maintenance, and cleanliness within a facility, construction site, or utility company. The specific duties can vary widely by industry but generally involve physical labor, basic maintenance, and assisting skilled tradespeople or other staff members.
Core Responsibilities
Cleaning and Maintenance: Performing routine cleaning duties such as sweeping, mopping, dusting, and general tidying of work areas, common spaces, and equipment.
Minor Repairs and Troubleshooting: Conducting basic inspections of equipment and facilities to identify issues, performing minor repairs on fixtures or equipment, and reporting major issues to supervisors or maintenance officers.
Material Handling and Logistics: Moving supplies, materials, and equipment as needed, which may involve using machinery like forklifts or hand tools, and assisting with loading and unloading items.
Operational Support: Assisting with the setup and breakdown of equipment or event spaces, and supporting other staff members in their daily tasks to ensure smooth operations.
Inventory Management: Monitoring inventory levels of cleaning supplies, tools, or other materials and ordering replacements when necessary.
Safety and Compliance: Adhering to all safety protocols and guidelines to maintain a safe working environment and potentially assisting with safety inspections and emergency response procedures.
Essential Skills and Qualifications
Physical Stamina: The ability to perform manual labor, lift heavy objects (often up to 50 pounds or more), and stand for extended periods.
Technical Aptitude: A basic understanding of maintenance processes, procedures, and the ability to operate various tools and equipment safely.
Problem-Solving: Strong critical thinking skills to identify and address unforeseen challenges quickly and effectively.
Communication: Effective verbal and written communication skills to report issues, relay information to colleagues, and follow instructions.
Reliability and Adaptability: A positive attitude and willingness to learn, adapt to new circumstances, and take on a variety of assigned duties.
Qualifications: Typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, with previous experience in a maintenance, general labor, or utility-related role preferred.
Work Environment
Utility workers can find employment in diverse settings, including:
Hotels and restaurants (cleaning kitchen equipment, handling inventory, general maintenance)
Offices and facilities (general cleaning, minor building repairs, setting up meeting rooms)
Manufacturing plants and construction sites (operating production equipment, assisting with system maintenance, site cleanup)
Public utility companies (assisting with the maintenance of water, gas, and electrical systems)
The role often requires flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends, or during emergencies.