EVS Spotlight: Linen Techs and Supply Managers

Hospital environmental services (EVS) professionals, commonly referred to as custodians or janitorial staff, have never been more vital to keeping hospitals running safely and smoothly. The health and safety of patients and healthcare workers depend on EVS teams implementing proper cleaning and sanitizing methods to prevent the spread of infection.

Hospitals around the country are partnering with Covelo Group to grow their EVS staff to meet the added challenges of 2020. We’ve seen the strongest demand for EVS professionals in Baltimore-Washington D.C., Chicago, Los Angeles, New York City and San Francisco.

While we’re seeing EVS job openings increase across the board, some of the most sought-after professionals currently include linen techs and supply managers.

Linen Techs

Linen techs are among the many unseen “backline” workers who help hospitals function. They are responsible for removing used linens such as bedding, towels, and gowns from patient rooms and various other hospital departments. Most importantly, they ensure those linens are properly laundered and sanitized before reuse. Once clean, linen techs deliver fresh linen carts to each hospital department and provide clean bedding and towels to patients.

Another important function of a linen tech is to track linen usage of various departments to accurately predict demand. An inventory of clean linens should be readily available at all times. Some linen techs may also be responsible for laundering and distributing hospital employees’ uniforms.

A position as a linen tech is an entry-level opportunity to launch your career at a reputable healthcare facility. Applicants should have a high school diploma or equivalent and possess excellent customer service and communication skills. While no previous experience is required, a work history of housekeeping within hospitality or a medical setting would definitely set you apart from the competition.

Supply Managers

Supply management is another important behind-the-scenes position in the healthcare industry. These logistics professionals are responsible for reconciling the supply needs of various hospital departments, ordering and tracking inbound inventory, and maintaining accurate records of current supplies. Supply managers are also in charge of reporting supply discrepancies, resolving shipping issues, and documenting overstock return or damaged items.

These professionals must manually deliver medical equipment to various hospital departments, so they should be able to lift, push, and pull up to 50 pounds. A high school diploma or equivalent, as well as strong communication and organizational skills, are required. Candidates with previous work experience in medical supply management, or the warehouse logistics industry, are preferred.

Opportunity for Growth

Working in environmental services is a fantastic way to get a foot in door at some of the country’s top hospitals. EVS has ample opportunities for professional growth into management positions, and increased wages with experience.

Hospital employees typically enjoy a flexible work schedule, with day and evening shifts available. Covelo Group’s placements are made with the end goal of permanent, full-time employment. You’ll enjoy competitive pay, and will be eligible for comprehensive health benefits after just 30 days of full-time work.

Covelo Group can match you with an EVS position at some of the best healthcare facilities in the U.S. To take the next step toward a career in environmental services, head to our Jobs page or call 415-421-4900.