Environmental Services EVS Worker - UI Health EVS

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Environmental Services (EVS) Worker - UI Health EVS

Company: Aramark

Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations - Facilities & Environmental Services

Date Posted: May 28, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Responsible for maintaining clean and sanitized environments within a healthcare setting, specifically UI Health EVS.

• Adheres to strict infection control procedures and safety regulations, including OSHA standards.

• Manages waste disposal, including hazardous materials, ensuring proper handling and transport.

• Operates and maintains housekeeping equipment to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

• Delivers exceptional customer service to patients, clients, and colleagues, adapting to diverse needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is focused on the foundational aspects of environmental services within a healthcare facility, emphasizing adherence to established protocols and direct service delivery. It requires a strong understanding of sanitation, infection control, and safety procedures critical in a medical environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Execute comprehensive cleaning and sanitization protocols for patient rooms, restrooms, and general assigned areas, ensuring compliance with infection control standards.

• Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of all housekeeping equipment, documenting any issues or required repairs.

• Safely collect, transport, and dispose of various types of waste, including general, recycling, and hazardous materials, in accordance with regulatory guidelines.

• Proactively identify and report any facility maintenance needs or safety concerns through established work order systems to ensure a secure and functional environment.

• Maintain a consistently positive, friendly, and efficient demeanor when interacting with patients, clients, visitors, and fellow employees, fostering a welcoming atmosphere.

• Secure the facility by ensuring all doors are properly locked and unlocked according to operational schedules and security protocols.

• Uphold the security of company assets by adhering to all policies and procedures related to equipment and supply management.

• Adapt to evolving operational demands and client requirements by performing additional duties as assigned by management to support overall team objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on role requiring meticulous attention to detail, adherence to strict health and safety regulations, and a customer-centric approach. The emphasis on infection control and waste management is crucial for a healthcare EVS position.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent is typically preferred, though not explicitly stated as a strict requirement.

Experience:

• Previous custodial or housekeeping experience is preferred, demonstrating a foundational understanding of cleaning techniques and protocols.

• Ability to follow and adhere to basic safety procedures and precautions is essential for maintaining a safe working environment. Required Skills:

• Cleaning & Sanitization: Proficiency in standard cleaning, dusting, vacuuming, and sanitizing techniques for various surfaces and environments.

• Infection Control: Understanding and application of infection control procedures, particularly in healthcare settings, to prevent the spread of pathogens.

• Waste Management: Ability to safely handle, segregate, and dispose of general, hazardous, and regulated waste according to established protocols.

• Customer Service: Demonstrated ability to interact professionally and courteously with patients, clients, and colleagues, responding effectively to needs and requests.

• Safety Compliance: Adherence to established safety procedures and regulations, including OSHA guidelines, to ensure a secure work environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Housekeeping Equipment Maintenance: Basic knowledge of operating and maintaining cleaning equipment such as vacuums, buffers, and floor scrubbers.

• Hazardous Waste Handling: Experience with specialized training or procedures for handling medical or hazardous waste.

• Facility Security Awareness: Understanding of basic security protocols for building access and asset protection.

• Work Order Systems: Familiarity with submitting and tracking maintenance requests or work orders.

📝 Enhancement Note: While previous custodial experience is preferred, the role appears to be entry-level friendly, with a strong emphasis on adherence to established procedures and safety. The core requirements focus on fundamental cleaning skills, safety awareness, and customer interaction, with preferred skills indicating areas for potential growth and development.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this role, candidates are encouraged to highlight relevant experience in past roles.

• Focus on demonstrating a track record of adherence to cleaning protocols and safety standards.

• Showcase any experience with specialized cleaning equipment or environments, particularly healthcare settings.

• Quantify achievements where possible, such as maintaining high cleanliness scores or reducing incidents related to sanitation. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for cleaning and sanitation.

• Ability to articulate how they follow established workflows for waste disposal and equipment maintenance.

• Readiness to explain how they would adapt to new processes or client-specific requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role like this, a formal "portfolio" might not be expected. However, candidates should prepare to discuss their experience in terms of processes they followed, safety procedures they adhered to, and any specific cleaning techniques they utilized. The emphasis is on understanding and executing established protocols.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The hourly rate for this position is fixed at $17.50.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans are available for eligible employees.

• Work/Life Resources: Access to services designed to support employee well-being and work-life balance.

• Retirement Savings: Participation in retirement savings plans, such as a 401(k), is offered.

• Paid Time Off: Includes parental leave and other paid days off, subject to eligibility and company policy.

• Disability Coverage: Options for disability insurance to provide income protection.

• Additional Benefits: May include other programs and services as determined by location, legal requirements, and employee eligibility.

Working Hours: The role is advertised as Full-Time, typically implying a standard 40-hour work week. Specific shifts and schedules will be determined based on operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is explicitly stated as $17.50 per hour, with no range provided. The benefits package is comprehensive, covering health, retirement, and work-life support, which is attractive for full-time roles. The "40 hours" implies a standard full-time schedule, but specific shift details are not provided.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food, facilities, and uniforms services, with a significant presence in healthcare, education, sports, and business sectors.

Company Size: Aramark is a large, multinational corporation employing tens of thousands of people globally. This scale offers stability and diverse opportunities.

Founded: Aramark was founded in 1960, giving it a long history and established presence in its service industries.

Team Structure:

• The EVS team likely operates as a specialized unit within a larger facilities management or healthcare support services department at UI Health.

• Reporting structure will likely involve a direct supervisor or manager responsible for EVS operations.

• Collaboration is essential with nursing staff, other hospital departments, and potentially maintenance teams to ensure a holistic approach to patient care and facility upkeep. Methodology:

• Aramark emphasizes adherence to established service standards and operational procedures to ensure consistent quality and safety.

• Data-driven approaches may be used for performance tracking, such as cleanliness audits and incident reporting, to identify areas for improvement.

• Workflow optimization is key, especially in a busy healthcare environment, to ensure efficient task completion and timely service delivery.

Company Website: https://www.aramark.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Aramark's culture is service-oriented, emphasizing quality, safety, and customer satisfaction. As a large corporation, it likely has structured processes and a focus on operational efficiency. Within UI Health, the EVS team plays a critical role in patient safety and experience.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is at the entry-level within the Environmental Services (EVS) domain. It focuses on direct service delivery and adherence to established protocols, providing a foundational understanding of healthcare facility maintenance and sanitation.

Reporting Structure: The EVS Worker will report to an EVS Supervisor or Manager who oversees daily operations, schedules, and performance. This supervisor will be the primary point of contact for guidance, task assignment, and issue resolution.

Operations Impact: The role's impact is direct and critical to patient safety, infection prevention, and the overall patient experience within UI Health. A clean and sanitary environment is paramount in healthcare, directly influencing patient outcomes and satisfaction. Efficient EVS operations contribute to the smooth functioning of the hospital.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to gain extensive experience in specialized healthcare cleaning techniques, infection control best practices, and hazardous waste management.

• Advancement within EVS: Potential to progress to roles such as EVS Lead, EVS Supervisor, or specialized cleaning technician roles with additional training and experience.

• Cross-Departmental Opportunities: Within Aramark or UI Health, there may be opportunities to transition into other facilities management, hospitality, or support service roles.

• Training Programs: Aramark often provides access to training programs that can enhance skills in areas like safety, equipment operation, and customer service, paving the way for career progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: This entry-level role is a strong starting point for a career in facilities management within the healthcare sector. The growth path typically involves mastering EVS responsibilities, moving into supervisory roles, or leveraging acquired skills in broader facilities or hospitality management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role within a busy healthcare facility (UI Health). The work environment involves direct interaction with patient care areas, common spaces, and support areas.

Office Location(s): Chicago, Illinois. Specific work zones within the UI Health campus will be assigned.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is dynamic and can be physically demanding, requiring movement throughout various hospital departments.

• Employees will utilize standard cleaning equipment and supplies, with access to PPE as required by safety protocols.

• Collaboration with other EVS team members and communication with clinical staff are integral to the daily workflow.

Work Schedule: While advertised as Full-Time (implying 40 hours/week), specific shifts (e.g., days, evenings, nights, weekends) will depend on the hospital's operational needs and staffing requirements. Flexibility may be required to cover all operational hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical of a hospital setting – fast-paced, requiring constant movement, and demanding strict adherence to safety and hygiene protocols. It is not a traditional office setting but rather a service-oriented operational space.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves a review of the application and potentially a brief phone screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: A more detailed interview, potentially with the EVS Supervisor or Hiring Manager, to discuss experience, skills, and suitability for the role. This may include scenario-based questions related to cleaning, safety, and customer service.

• Facility Tour/Work Sample (Possible): In some cases, candidates might be asked to view the work environment or perform a basic cleaning task to demonstrate proficiency and assess practical skills.

• Background Check & Onboarding: Successful candidates will undergo background checks and complete onboarding procedures.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal portfolio is less critical than demonstrating relevant experience and a strong understanding of core responsibilities.

• Be prepared to discuss specific examples of:

  • How you have ensured cleanliness and sanitation in previous roles.
  • Your understanding of safety procedures and infection control.
  • How you handle challenging situations or demanding work environments.
  • Your approach to customer service in service-oriented roles.

• Highlight any past experience in healthcare, hospitality, or similar environments where attention to detail and adherence to protocols were paramount. Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to answer questions about how you would handle common EVS scenarios, such as dealing with spills, managing waste, or interacting with distressed patients or visitors.

• Understand the importance of following established procedures and the potential consequences of non-compliance in a healthcare setting.

• Emphasize your reliability, attention to detail, and commitment to maintaining a safe and clean environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process will likely focus on assessing the candidate's practical skills, understanding of safety and hygiene, and ability to work effectively in a healthcare environment. Emphasis will be on demonstrating reliability and a strong work ethic.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Cleaning Equipment: Standard commercial cleaning tools including vacuums, mops, brooms, dustpans, buckets, spray bottles, and cleaning carts.

• Cleaning Agents & Chemicals: Use of various detergents, disinfectants, sanitizers, and specialized cleaning solutions. Proper knowledge of their application and safety is key.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves, masks, eye protection, and potentially specialized suits or footwear depending on the area and task.

• Waste Receptacles: Various bins for general waste, recycling, and potentially biohazardous or regulated medical waste.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Work Order Systems: May utilize basic digital or paper-based systems for reporting maintenance issues or requests.

• Checklists & Logs: Essential for tracking completed tasks, room cleaning status, and equipment checks.

CRM & Automation:

• Not Applicable: This role does not typically involve CRM or advanced automation tools. The focus is on manual execution of tasks and adherence to manual processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools and technology stack for this role are primarily manual and equipment-based. The emphasis is on the correct and safe use of cleaning supplies, equipment, and PPE, rather than complex software systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: Paramount importance placed on adhering to all safety protocols, including OSHA regulations and infection control procedures, to protect oneself, colleagues, patients, and visitors.

• Cleanliness & Quality: Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and sanitation to ensure a healthy and positive environment for all stakeholders.

• Reliability & Punctuality: Essential for ensuring continuous coverage and timely completion of duties in a 24/7 healthcare operation.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Willingness to work cooperatively with other EVS team members and support staff across different departments to achieve common goals.

• Customer Focus: A dedication to providing excellent service to patients, visitors, and hospital staff, contributing to a positive overall experience.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Requires effective communication and coordination with nursing staff, clinical teams, and potentially facilities management to ensure patient needs and environmental standards are met.

• Process Adherence: Collaboration often involves working within defined processes and protocols, with open communication for reporting issues or suggesting minor improvements.

• Shared Responsibility: Team members work together to cover assigned areas, assist each other during busy periods, and ensure all tasks are completed efficiently and to standard.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture is built around a shared responsibility for maintaining a safe and clean healthcare environment. Values like safety, quality, and teamwork are critical. Collaboration is essential, especially with clinical staff, to ensure patient care is not disrupted and hygiene standards are met.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Physically Demanding: The role requires significant physical stamina, including standing for long periods, walking, bending, lifting, and pushing/pulling cleaning equipment.

• Exposure to Potentially Hazardous Materials: May involve handling biohazardous waste, cleaning up bodily fluids, and using strong cleaning chemicals, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols.

• High-Pressure Environment: Working in a healthcare facility means operating within a fast-paced, often stressful environment where demands can change rapidly.

• Maintaining Consistency: Ensuring a consistently high level of cleanliness and sanitation across all assigned areas, especially during busy periods.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Healthcare Cleaning Training: Opportunities to learn advanced techniques for cleaning sensitive medical equipment, isolation rooms, and operating theaters.

• Infection Control Certifications: Potential to pursue industry-recognized certifications in infection control and healthcare environmental services.

• Safety Training: Continuous learning on OSHA regulations, hazardous material handling, and emergency preparedness.

• Supervisory Development: For motivated individuals, there are pathways to supervisory roles within EVS, requiring leadership and team management skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges are physical and environmental. However, these challenges also present significant learning opportunities in specialized healthcare cleaning, safety protocols, and potential leadership development within the EVS field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience with cleaning in a healthcare or similar environment. What were your key responsibilities?"

• "How do you ensure compliance with safety procedures and infection control protocols?"

• "Imagine you encounter a spill of bodily fluid in a patient room. What are the immediate steps you would take?"

• "How do you prioritize your tasks when you have multiple areas to clean and limited time?"

• "Describe a time you had to deal with a difficult customer or colleague. How did you handle it?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Aramark and its mission?"

• "Why are you interested in working as an EVS Worker at UI Health?"

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?"

• "What does 'customer service' mean to you in the context of a hospital?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• While a formal portfolio isn't expected, be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past work that demonstrate:

  • Your understanding of cleaning standards.
  • Your commitment to safety and following procedures.
  • Your ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Any experience with specialized cleaning equipment or environments.

• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers to behavioral questions, providing concrete examples of your skills and experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of cleaning protocols, safety, and customer service within a healthcare context. Behavioral questions will be key to assessing practical application of these skills.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Aramark Careers portal via the provided link.

• Resume/Application Tailoring: Ensure your resume clearly highlights any previous custodial, cleaning, or healthcare support experience. Detail specific duties related to sanitation, safety, and client interaction.

• Prepare for Interview Questions: Familiarize yourself with common questions related to cleaning, safety, infection control, and customer service in a healthcare setting. Review the "Interview Preparation" section above.

• Research UI Health & Aramark: Understand the mission and values of both UI Health and Aramark to articulate your alignment with their goals and culture.

• Highlight Key Skills: Be ready to verbally confirm your ability to perform the physical demands of the job and your commitment to following established procedures.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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