Environmental Services EVS Worker - UI Health EVS

Aramark
Full_timeChicago, United States

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Environmental Services EVS Worker - UI Health EVS Company: Aramark Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Facilities Operations / Environmental Services Date Posted: July 30, 2025 Experience Level: Entry-Level / 0-2 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • Responsible for maintaining high standards of cleanliness and sanitation within healthcare facilities, directly impacting patient care and safety.
  • Executes essential cleaning and disinfection protocols for patient rooms, common areas, and support spaces, adhering to strict infection control guidelines.
  • Contributes to a positive and safe environment for patients, visitors, and staff through diligent work and a customer-centric approach.
  • Operates and maintains cleaning equipment and supplies efficiently, ensuring proper usage and storage.
  • Supports the overall operational efficiency of the Environmental Services department through adherence to established procedures and timely reporting of maintenance needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the original listing is for an "Environmental Services EVS Worker," the context of "UI Health EVS" implies a healthcare setting. This has been translated into a more operations-centric category and highlighted the critical nature of sanitation and infection control within this environment. The role is classified as entry-level due to the stated experience requirements.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Adhere to established procedures and protocols to ensure a safe working environment, aligning with OSHA, state/local, federal, and Aramark regulations.
  • Perform comprehensive cleaning and sanitizing of patient/resident rooms, including but not limited to vacuuming, dusting, bed making/stripping, and proper disposal of general and hazardous waste.
  • Clean and disinfect restrooms following strict infection control procedures to prevent the spread of pathogens.
  • Accurately maintain and clean all assigned housekeeping equipment, ensuring functionality and readiness for use.
  • Clean all assigned areas to meet Aramark and client-specific standards and requirements, focusing on detail and thoroughness.
  • Follow established procedures for the storage and disposal of trash, including the safe transport of waste to designated areas.
  • Report any identified maintenance concerns or equipment malfunctions promptly via work order requests to the appropriate personnel.
  • Maintain a friendly, efficient, and positive customer service demeanor towards patients, clients, visitors, and co-workers, demonstrating adaptability to changing needs.
  • Secure the facility by ensuring buildings are locked and unlocked as required, maintaining site integrity.
  • Ensure the security of company assets and supplies by properly storing and accounting for all materials.
  • Perform other duties and tasks as assigned by the manager to support departmental operations and goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities have been elaborated to emphasize the operational aspects of cleaning, sanitation, waste management, and safety protocols, particularly within a healthcare context. Keywords like "infection control procedures," "hazardous waste," "work order requests," and "site integrity" have been integrated to reflect industry standards.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific educational requirements are listed, suggesting that on-the-job training will be provided. High school diploma or equivalent may be beneficial but is not explicitly required.

Experience: Previous custodial or environmental services experience is preferred. Candidates should possess the ability to follow basic safety procedures and precautions.

Required Skills:

  • Proficient in performing general cleaning and sanitization tasks according to established procedures.
  • Ability to understand and follow basic safety procedures and precautions, including those related to infection control and hazardous materials.
  • Strong customer service skills, with the capacity to interact positively and professionally with patients, visitors, and colleagues.
  • Adaptability to changing work demands and client needs, demonstrating flexibility in task execution.
  • Basic understanding of housekeeping equipment operation and maintenance.
  • Ability to report maintenance issues and follow established reporting procedures.
  • Physical stamina and capacity to perform tasks involving lifting, bending, pushing, pulling, and extended periods of walking and standing.

Preferred Skills:

  • Prior experience in a healthcare environmental services (EVS) role, demonstrating familiarity with healthcare cleaning standards and infection control.
  • Knowledge of OSHA regulations and other relevant health and safety guidelines.
  • Familiarity with different types of cleaning chemicals and their safe usage.
  • Experience with specialized cleaning equipment or techniques.
  • Basic understanding of waste management protocols, including hazardous waste handling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The skills section has been structured to differentiate between required and preferred abilities, aligning with the provided "previous custodial experience preferred" and "able to follow basic safety procedures and precautions" requirements. Emphasis has been placed on skills crucial for an operations role in a healthcare setting, such as infection control and safety compliance.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • While a formal portfolio is not typically required for this entry-level role, candidates may benefit from preparing examples of how they have previously:
    • Ensured thoroughness and attention to detail in cleaning tasks.
    • Handled specific cleaning challenges or emergencies.
    • Contributed to maintaining a safe and hygienic environment.
    • Demonstrated strong customer service in a service-oriented role.
    • Followed and improved upon existing operational procedures.

Process Documentation:

  • Candidates are expected to adhere to documented processes for:
    • Daily cleaning checklists and routines for assigned areas.
    • Infection control protocols for specific tasks and environments (e.g., patient rooms, restrooms).
    • Proper handling, labeling, and disposal of general and hazardous waste.
    • Use and basic maintenance of cleaning equipment (e.g., vacuums, floor scrubbers, carts).
    • Reporting procedures for maintenance requests and safety hazards.
    • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) usage and decontamination.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level EVS role, a traditional "portfolio" is unlikely. This section focuses on the candidate's ability to follow existing processes and potentially demonstrate past adherence to operational standards through anecdotal evidence or by understanding the importance of documented procedures. The emphasis is on process adherence rather than creation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

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

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.
  • Work/Life Resources program.
  • Retirement savings plans, such as a 401(k).
  • Paid Days Off (PDO).
  • Parental Leave.
  • Disability Coverage.
  • Additional benefits may vary by location and are subject to eligibility criteria.

Working Hours: While not explicitly stated, the job type is "Full-Time," which typically implies around 40 hours per week, often with rotating shifts, including weekends and holidays, common in healthcare environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is explicitly stated as $17.50/hour. The benefits listed are comprehensive and typical for a full-time position with a large organization like Aramark. The assumption of 40 hours per week for "Full-Time" is standard.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food and Facilities Services, with a significant presence in the Healthcare sector through its UI Health partnership. Aramark operates in diverse environments, providing essential services that impact daily life for many. Company Size: Aramark is a large, global company employing tens of thousands of people. This means opportunities for internal mobility and structured career paths, but potentially a more formalized approach to operations and procedures. Founded: Aramark was founded in 1961. This long history suggests established operational frameworks and a deep understanding of service delivery across various industries.

Team Structure:

  • The EVS Worker will be part of the Environmental Services (EVS) department, likely reporting to an EVS Supervisor or Manager.
  • The team is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the UI Health facility, working collaboratively to cover various zones and shifts.
  • Cross-functional collaboration will occur with nursing staff, facilities management, and other hospital departments to ensure a seamless and hygienic patient environment.

Methodology:

  • Emphasis on adherence to established cleaning protocols and infection control standards.
  • Data-driven approaches are likely used for performance monitoring (e.g., cleaning completion rates, incident reports, patient satisfaction scores related to cleanliness).
  • Workflow planning involves task assignment, zone coverage, and efficient resource allocation to meet service level agreements.
  • Automation is less likely to be a primary focus for the EVS Worker role itself, but the department may utilize technology for scheduling, task management, or reporting.

Company Website: http://www.aramarkcareers.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context has been fleshed out to provide a clearer picture of Aramark's scale and industry focus, particularly its healthcare division. This helps candidates understand the operational environment and potential for structure and process.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at the entry-level within the Environmental Services and Facilities Operations domain. It serves as a foundational position for individuals seeking careers in facility maintenance, hygiene management, and healthcare support services.

Reporting Structure: The EVS Worker typically reports to an EVS Supervisor or EVS Manager. This direct line of reporting ensures clear task assignment, performance feedback, and adherence to departmental standards.

Operations Impact: The EVS Worker's role has a direct and critical impact on patient safety, infection prevention, and overall patient experience within the UI Health facility. Maintaining a clean and sanitary environment is paramount to preventing healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) and contributing to positive patient outcomes and satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Skill Advancement: Opportunities to become proficient in specialized cleaning techniques, advanced infection control protocols, and the operation of specialized EVS equipment.
  • Team Leadership: Potential to advance into roles such as EVS Lead Worker or Supervisor, involving team oversight, training, and performance management.
  • Cross-Departmental Experience: Possibility to gain experience in other facilities management or support service roles within Aramark, leveraging the company's broad service offerings.
  • Certifications: Access to training and potential reimbursement for industry-recognized certifications in environmental services or healthcare facility management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth analysis focuses on typical career progression within the EVS field and highlights how this role can serve as a stepping stone within a large organization like Aramark. The emphasis is on skill development and potential leadership track.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role within a bustling healthcare facility (UI Health). The work environment is dynamic and demanding, requiring constant attention to cleanliness and safety protocols. Office Location(s): Chicago, Illinois. Specific details about the UI Health campus or specific building assignments would be provided upon hiring.

Workspace Context:

  • The workspace includes patient rooms, common areas (lobbies, waiting rooms, hallways), restrooms, and potentially administrative offices or utility closets.
  • Interaction with patients, visitors, and hospital staff is a constant aspect of the role.
  • The environment requires adherence to strict hygiene and safety measures, including the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Access to cleaning supplies, equipment, and designated waste disposal areas is provided.

Work Schedule: Full-time, likely involving a set schedule that could include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, as healthcare facilities operate 24/7. Flexibility in scheduling may be required to meet departmental needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment description emphasizes the unique demands of a healthcare setting, including the dynamic nature, constant interaction, and strict safety requirements, which are critical for operations professionals to understand.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: Likely an online application followed by a review of qualifications and experience.
  • Phone/Virtual Interview: A discussion with an HR representative or hiring manager to assess basic qualifications, cultural fit, and understanding of the role's demands. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their previous experience (even if non-custodial) and how they demonstrate reliability, attention to detail, and customer service.
  • On-site Interview/Working Interview: May involve a brief tour of the facility (or simulated environment), a discussion of specific scenarios, and an assessment of practical abilities or understanding of cleaning procedures.
  • Background Check & Onboarding: Standard procedures for healthcare employment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • As this is an entry-level role, a formal portfolio is not expected. However, candidates can prepare to discuss:
    • Specific examples of times they maintained cleanliness in previous roles (e.g., personal projects, volunteer work, previous jobs).
    • How they ensure thoroughness and attention to detail in their work.
    • Instances where they followed safety procedures diligently.
    • How they handle feedback or constructive criticism.
    • Their understanding of the importance of hygiene in a healthcare setting.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Candidates might be asked scenario-based questions:
    • "What would you do if you discovered a spill in a patient area?"
    • "How would you prioritize cleaning tasks if you had multiple assignments with different urgency levels?"
    • "How do you ensure you are following infection control procedures correctly?"
    • Be prepared to discuss the importance of teamwork and communication with colleagues and other staff.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is tailored for an entry-level operational role, focusing on practical application, adherence to procedures, and customer service rather than complex strategic thinking or elaborate portfolios. Scenario-based questions are common for assessing problem-solving and procedural understanding.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Cleaning Equipment: Vacuums, mops, buckets, brooms, dustpans, cleaning carts, spray bottles, squeegees, window cleaning tools.
  • Cleaning Chemicals & Solutions: Disinfectants, sanitizers, detergents, glass cleaners, floor strippers/waxes (candidates will be trained on specific products).
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves, masks, gowns, eye protection, appropriate footwear.
  • Waste Receptacles: Standard trash bins, biohazard waste containers, sharps containers.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • Work Order Systems: Used to report maintenance issues or request supplies.
  • Checklists & Logs: Daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning checklists to ensure all tasks are completed and documented.
  • Inventory Management: Basic tracking of cleaning supplies to ensure availability.

CRM & Automation:

  • Scheduling Software: May be used by supervisors for task assignment and shift management.
  • Communication Platforms: Internal messaging or notification systems for updates or alerts.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section lists the practical tools and systems an EVS Worker would interact with daily, focusing on the hands-on equipment and basic reporting mechanisms rather than complex software suites typical of revenue or sales operations roles.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Service Excellence: A commitment to providing high-quality cleaning and sanitation services that contribute to a positive patient experience and facility environment.
  • Safety First: Prioritizing adherence to all safety protocols, including OSHA guidelines and infection control procedures, to protect oneself, colleagues, and patients.
  • Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with fellow EVS staff and other hospital departments to ensure comprehensive coverage and efficient operations.
  • Reliability & Dependability: Consistently showing up for shifts, completing assigned tasks thoroughly and on time, and being a dependable member of the team.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulously following cleaning procedures and standards to ensure thoroughness and prevent oversight, which is critical in a healthcare setting.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-functional Integration: EVS staff work closely with nursing, clinical, and administrative teams, requiring clear communication and a respectful, supportive approach.
  • Process Adherence & Feedback: Collaboration involves following established cleaning processes and potentially providing feedback on workflow efficiencies or challenges to supervisors.
  • Knowledge Sharing: Opportunities to learn from more experienced team members regarding best practices in cleaning, sanitation, and safety.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture and values are framed around the specific demands of an EVS role in a healthcare setting, emphasizing service, safety, and teamwork as core operational principles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Pace of Work: Healthcare environments are fast-paced, requiring efficient task completion under time constraints, especially during peak hours or high patient occupancy.
  • Exposure Risks: Potential exposure to infectious agents, hazardous materials, and bodily fluids, necessitating strict adherence to safety and PPE protocols.
  • Physical Demands: The role involves continuous physical activity, including standing, walking, bending, lifting, and repetitive motions, which can be demanding over long shifts.
  • Variable Schedules: Working various shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to ensure 24/7 coverage of the facility.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • On-the-Job Training: Comprehensive training on specific cleaning techniques, infection control standards, hazardous waste handling, and equipment operation.
  • Safety Certifications: Opportunities to gain certifications in areas like bloodborne pathogens or hazardous materials handling.
  • Career Progression: Clear pathways to advance into supervisory roles or specialized EVS positions within Aramark's extensive network.
  • Exposure to Healthcare Operations: Gaining valuable experience and understanding of the operational intricacies of a healthcare system.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are identified based on the inherent nature of EVS work in healthcare, and growth opportunities are linked to skill acquisition and career advancement within Aramark's structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • Scenario-Based: Be ready for questions like: "How would you handle a situation where a patient's family member is present while you are cleaning their room?" or "What steps would you take if you noticed a leak in a restroom?" Focus on safety, patient comfort, and following procedures.
  • Procedural Understanding: Expect questions about your understanding of cleaning and sanitation importance. "Why is infection control important in a hospital setting?" or "How do you ensure you are cleaning thoroughly?"
  • Teamwork & Reliability: "Describe a time you worked as part of a team to achieve a common goal," or "How do you ensure you are punctual and reliable for your shifts?"

Company & Culture Questions:

  • Research Aramark's mission and values, particularly as they relate to service and healthcare.
  • Understand the importance of the EVS role within a hospital setting like UI Health. Be prepared to articulate why you are interested in this specific type of work environment.
  • Show enthusiasm for contributing to a safe and healthy patient environment.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Since a formal portfolio isn't required, focus on your resume and be ready to verbally elaborate on your experiences.
  • Prepare concise examples that demonstrate your reliability, attention to detail, customer service skills, and ability to follow instructions.
  • For any previous roles, highlight accomplishments related to efficiency, cleanliness, or positive customer feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation is geared towards assessing practical skills, procedural knowledge, and cultural fit for an entry-level operational role in a demanding environment. Emphasis is on clear, concise answers and demonstrating a proactive attitude.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Environmental Services EVS Worker position:

  • Navigate to the Aramark Careers website and locate the job posting using the provided URL or by searching for "Environmental Services EVS Worker - UI Health."
  • Carefully complete the online application form, ensuring all sections are filled accurately and honestly.
  • Actionable Preparation Step 1 (Resume): Tailor your resume to highlight any previous experience in cleaning, customer service, or roles requiring adherence to strict procedures. Use keywords from the job description such as "cleaning," "sanitizing," "safety procedures," and "customer service." Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "maintained cleanliness standards for X number of rooms daily").
  • Actionable Preparation Step 2 (Interview Practice): Practice answering common interview questions related to reliability, teamwork, problem-solving in a service context, and understanding of hygiene. Prepare specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate these qualities.
  • Actionable Preparation Step 3 (Company Research): Familiarize yourself with Aramark's mission and values, and understand the critical role of Environmental Services in a healthcare setting like UI Health. This will help you articulate your interest and alignment during the interview.
  • Actionable Preparation Step 4 (Prepare Questions): Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the team, daily responsibilities, training provided, or opportunities for growth within the EVS department.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

Previous custodial experience is preferred, and candidates should be able to follow basic safety procedures. The role may involve physical demands such as lifting, bending, and extended walking.