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: February 04, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Responsible for maintaining high standards of cleanliness and sanitation within assigned healthcare environments, directly impacting patient and staff well-being.

• Adheres strictly to established safety and infection control protocols to ensure a safe and healthy facility.

• Manages and maintains cleaning equipment and supplies efficiently to support operational workflows.

• Provides excellent customer service to patients, clients, and colleagues, embodying the company's service-oriented mission.

• Executes essential cleaning tasks, including waste removal and reporting maintenance needs, to ensure smooth facility operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while not a traditional "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations" position, plays a crucial, albeit indirect, role in revenue generation and operational efficiency within a healthcare setting. A well-maintained and sanitary environment contributes to patient satisfaction, reduces healthcare-associated infections (which can lead to significant costs and reputational damage), and ensures a conducive working environment for medical staff, all of which have downstream financial and operational impacts. Therefore, candidates with a strong understanding of process adherence, efficiency, and impact on stakeholder satisfaction will be well-suited.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Adhere to and enforce established procedures for maintaining a safe working environment, aligning with OSHA, state/local, federal, and Aramark regulations.

• Perform comprehensive cleaning and sanitizing of patient/resident rooms, which may include vacuuming, high and low dusting, bed making and stripping, and proper disposal of general and hazardous waste.

• Meticulously clean restrooms following strict infection control procedures to prevent cross-contamination.

• Accurately maintain, clean, and prepare all housekeeping equipment for daily use, ensuring functionality and hygiene.

• Clean assigned areas to meet and exceed Aramark and client-specific standards and requirements, focusing on detail and thoroughness.

• Follow established procedures for the storage and disposal of trash, ensuring timely transport to designated areas.

• Proactively report any observed maintenance concerns through the proper work order request system to the appropriate personnel.

• Maintain a friendly, efficient, and positive customer service demeanor toward customers, clients, patients, and co-workers, demonstrating adaptability to their needs.

• Secure the facility by ensuring buildings are locked and unlocked as required, contributing to overall site safety and security.

• Ensure the security and proper handling of company assets and supplies.

• Perform other duties and tasks as assigned by management to support operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize adherence to strict protocols and standards, which is a hallmark of operational roles. The mention of "infection control procedures," "OSHA regulations," and "hazardous waste" highlights the critical nature of this role within a healthcare context and the need for meticulous process execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent strongly preferred.

Experience: Previous custodial or environmental services experience is preferred, especially within a healthcare or similar institutional setting.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated ability to follow basic safety procedures and precautions rigorously.

• Strong understanding and application of cleaning and sanitizing techniques.

• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills for interacting with patients, staff, and clients.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team to achieve operational goals.

• Basic understanding of infection control principles.

• Adaptability to changing needs and environments within a healthcare setting.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specialized cleaning equipment and chemicals used in healthcare environments.

• Familiarity with OSHA regulations and hazardous waste handling procedures.

• Knowledge of waste disposal protocols specific to healthcare facilities.

• Ability to read and understand work orders and maintenance requests.

• Basic troubleshooting skills for minor equipment issues.

• Experience with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) usage and maintenance.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is entry-level, the "preferred skills" indicate areas where candidates can demonstrate a higher level of operational readiness and a proactive approach to facility management and safety compliance.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not typically required for this role, candidates who can articulate specific examples of how they've followed complex procedures or improved efficiency in previous roles will stand out.

• Demonstrating an understanding of how their work contributes to the overall operational efficiency and safety of a facility is key.

• Experience with or understanding of basic facility maintenance request systems (work orders) is beneficial.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of following established cleaning and sanitization workflows.

• Ability to describe how they would approach a new cleaning assignment and ensure all steps are completed according to protocol.

• Understanding of the importance of documenting completed tasks, equipment maintenance, and any reported issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an EVS Worker role, a traditional "process and systems portfolio" is uncommon. However, the emphasis here is on the candidate's ability to demonstrate process adherence and understanding through their responses and examples during the interview. Candidates can prepare by thinking about specific instances where they successfully followed a protocol or identified a potential issue.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.50 per hour.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefit programs and services for eligible employees.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.

• Work/Life Resources to support employee well-being.

• Retirement savings plans, such as a 401(k).

• Paid days off, including parental leave.

• Disability coverage.

• Benefits may vary by location and are subject to eligibility status and legal requirements.

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week (Full-Time). Specific shift details would be provided upon hiring.

📝 Enhancement Note: The stated hourly rate of $17.50 is within the competitive range for EVS workers in a major metropolitan area like Chicago, especially for a role within a healthcare facility. The comprehensive benefits package is a significant factor for this type of role, offering stability and support to employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food Services, Facilities Management, Healthcare Support Services.

Company Size: Large (10,000+ employees globally). Aramark is a major international company providing a wide range of services.

Founded: 1960. Aramark has a long history in service provision.

Team Structure:

• The EVS team is likely part of a larger Facilities Management or Environmental Services department within a healthcare client's site (UI Health).

• Team members typically report to an EVS Supervisor or Manager.

Methodology:

• Aramark emphasizes a service-driven approach, focusing on client satisfaction and operational excellence.

• Data-driven insights are used to optimize service delivery, though for this role, adherence to established protocols is paramount.

• Workflow planning involves scheduling cleaning routes and ensuring efficient use of resources and time.

• Automation is less relevant for direct EVS tasks but may be present in reporting or supply chain management.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Aramark's culture is rooted in service and striving to "do great things." This translates to a focus on employee development, client satisfaction, and community impact. For an EVS Worker, this means a commitment to quality service, safety, and being a reliable team member within the healthcare environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level to early-career operational support role. It provides foundational experience in facility operations, safety protocols, and customer service within a critical industry.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to an EVS Supervisor or Manager, who oversees a team of EVS workers and ensures operational standards are met.

Operations Impact: While not directly generating revenue, the EVS Worker's role is critical for:

• Patient Satisfaction: A clean and safe environment is paramount for patient experience and recovery.

• Cost Reduction: Preventing infections and maintaining facility integrity reduces healthcare costs and potential liabilities.

• Operational Continuity: Ensuring a sanitary environment allows medical staff to focus on patient care without environmental disruptions.

• Reputation Management: High standards of cleanliness contribute positively to the healthcare facility's reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement within EVS: Potential to move into Lead EVS Worker, EVS Supervisor, or EVS Manager roles.

• Skill Development: Opportunities to gain certifications in specialized cleaning techniques, infection control, or hazardous materials handling.

• Cross-Functional Roles: Experience gained can be transferable to other facilities management or operational support roles within Aramark or other organizations.

• Training Programs: Aramark often provides training for career advancement and skill enhancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth potential in EVS roles is often underestimated. Demonstrating reliability, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn can lead to supervisory and management positions, offering significant career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily on-site within a healthcare facility (UI Health). This is not a remote or hybrid role.

Office Location(s): Chicago, Illinois. The specific work location will be within the UI Health campus.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is dynamic and can include patient rooms, common areas, restrooms, utility rooms, and administrative offices within the hospital.

• Requires working with cleaning chemicals, equipment, and potentially biohazards, necessitating strict adherence to safety protocols.

• Opportunities for collaboration with fellow EVS team members and interaction with healthcare professionals are frequent.

• Access to necessary cleaning supplies, equipment, and PPE will be provided.

Work Schedule: Full-time, typically involving a set schedule, which may include evenings, weekends, or holidays depending on the facility's operational needs. Flexibility is often required.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role demands a strong presence on-site and involves direct interaction with the physical environment of a healthcare facility. Understanding the unique demands of a hospital setting—including patient privacy, infection control, and working around critical care areas—is crucial.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application and resume for relevant experience and qualifications.

• Interview(s): Typically with an EVS Supervisor or Hiring Manager. May involve a tour of the facility or a practical demonstration of cleaning techniques.

• Skills Assessment: May include questions on safety procedures, infection control knowledge, and customer service scenarios.

• Background Check: Standard for healthcare-related positions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio isn't expected, candidates should prepare to discuss:
  • Specific examples of how they've maintained cleanliness standards in previous roles.
  • Instances where they followed safety protocols meticulously.
  • How they handled challenging cleaning situations or customer service interactions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to answer hypothetical questions about how you would clean a specific area (e.g., a patient room, a bathroom) or handle a spill.

• Prepare to discuss your understanding of safety data sheets (SDS) or chemical handling.

• Think about how you would prioritize tasks if you had multiple assignments with varying urgency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on practical skills, adherence to procedures, and a candidate's ability to represent Aramark and UI Health professionally. Demonstrating a proactive and responsible attitude is key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Cleaning Equipment: Vacuums, floor buffers, carpet cleaners, mops, buckets, spray bottles, carts.

• Cleaning Agents & Chemicals: Various disinfectants, sanitizers, detergents, and specialized cleaning solutions. Candidates should be familiar with reading and understanding Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for these.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Gloves, masks, eye protection, appropriate footwear, uniforms.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Work Order Systems: Digital or paper-based systems for reporting maintenance issues and tracking task completion.

• Inventory Management: Basic tracking of cleaning supplies to ensure availability.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly customer-facing in a CRM sense, the role requires interaction with "customers" (patients, staff) and adherence to service level agreements (SLAs) with the client (UI Health).

• Basic communication tools for team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with standard EVS equipment and cleaning agents is essential. Familiarity with digital work order systems is a plus, indicating a candidate's comfort with technology in an operational context.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Service Excellence: Commitment to providing high-quality cleaning and support services that contribute to a positive environment.

• Safety First: Prioritizing the safety of oneself, colleagues, patients, and visitors through strict adherence to protocols.

• Integrity & Reliability: Being dependable, honest, and committed to fulfilling job duties consistently.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues and other departments to achieve common goals.

• Respect & Professionalism: Maintaining a respectful demeanor towards all individuals encountered.

Collaboration Style:

• Close collaboration with other EVS team members to ensure all areas are covered and standards are met.

• Communication with nursing staff regarding room readiness and patient needs.

• Coordination with maintenance teams for repairs and upkeep.

• Openness to feedback from supervisors and clients to improve service delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: Aramark's emphasis on "Rooted in service and united by our purpose" suggests a culture that values contribution, teamwork, and a shared commitment to excellence. For EVS workers, this means being a reliable and positive presence within the healthcare team.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Physical Demands: The role requires significant physical exertion, including lifting, bending, pushing, pulling, and extended periods of standing and walking.

• Exposure Risks: Potential exposure to biological hazards, chemicals, and infectious agents, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols.

• Demanding Environment: Working within a busy healthcare facility with constant activity and the need to maintain patient privacy and minimize disruption.

• High Standards: Meeting rigorous cleanliness and infection control standards set by both Aramark and the healthcare client.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• On-the-Job Training: Practical training on cleaning techniques, equipment operation, and safety procedures.

• Specialized Certifications: Opportunities for training in areas like infection control, hazardous materials handling, or specific cleaning technologies.

• Career Pathing: Clear pathways for advancement into supervisory or management roles within Aramark's EVS division.

• Industry Knowledge: Gaining valuable experience and knowledge within the healthcare facilities management sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role provides a solid foundation for understanding operational logistics in a highly regulated environment. Overcoming the physical and environmental challenges demonstrates resilience and dedication, qualities valued in any operational role.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Be ready to discuss your understanding of "infection control" and why it's critical in a hospital setting.

• Prepare examples of how you have followed detailed instructions or procedures in previous roles.

• Think about how you would handle a situation where you notice a potential safety hazard or a maintenance issue.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research Aramark's mission and values. Be prepared to articulate how your work ethic aligns with their service-oriented culture.

• Understand the importance of your role in supporting the healthcare mission of UI Health.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, focus on preparing specific, concrete examples from your past experience that demonstrate your skills in cleaning, safety, reliability, and customer service.

• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers about past experiences.

• Be ready to discuss your understanding of the tools and chemicals you've used and how you ensure their safe and effective application.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will likely assess not only your practical cleaning skills but also your attitude, reliability, and understanding of the critical nature of your role within a healthcare environment. Emphasize your commitment to safety and cleanliness.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Environmental Services Worker position:

• Visit the Aramark Careers website and search for this job title and location.

• Submit your application through the online portal.

• Prepare your resume: Highlight any previous cleaning, custodial, or healthcare-related experience. Emphasize skills like attention to detail, reliability, and adherence to safety protocols.

• Practice your interview answers: Focus on behavioral questions related to safety, teamwork, and customer service. Be ready to discuss your understanding of cleaning standards and infection control.

• Research Aramark and UI Health: Understand their missions and values to better articulate your fit for the role and company culture.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description provides detailed insights into the Environmental Services Worker role at Aramark within UI Health. While based on the provided information and industry standards, candidates should always verify specific details, benefits, and requirements directly with the hiring organization.