What is a Janitor and Cleaner, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners?
A Janitor and Cleaner maintains the cleanliness and upkeep of buildings and premises, from offices and schools to hospitals and industrial facilities. Their responsibilities include a wide range of tasks, from cleaning and sanitizing surfaces and removing trash to performing minor maintenance and ensuring a safe and hygienic environment for all occupants. This role is crucial for maintaining public health and the smooth operation of a facility.
Typical Education
There are no formal educational requirements for this role. On-the-job training is the most common way to learn the necessary skills.
Salary Range in the United States
The median annual salary for a janitor and cleaner was $37,130 in May 2024. The lowest 10% earned less than $26,050, while the highest 10% earned more than $50,560.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners
Day in the Life
How to Become a Janitor or Cleaner
- Get a High School Diploma or GED: A high school diploma or GED is the foundational educational requirement for the role.
- Gain Hands-on Experience: The most common way to learn is through on-the-job training. Seek out an entry-level position with a cleaning company or a facility.
- Learn Key Skills: Focus on learning how to properly use cleaning equipment, operate floor buffers, and use various cleaning chemicals.
- Develop Problem-Solving Skills: You'll need to be able to handle unexpected issues, such as a spill or a plumbing problem.
- Pursue Certifications (Optional): Some certifications, such as those related to cleaning hazardous materials or specialized equipment, can be beneficial.
Essential Skills
- Physical Stamina: The job is physically demanding and requires the ability to lift heavy equipment, stand for long periods, and perform repetitive motions.
- Attention to Detail: Meticulousness is crucial for ensuring a clean and hygienic environment.
- Knowledge of Equipment: A basic understanding of how to operate and maintain various cleaning tools and machinery, such as vacuums, floor polishers, and power washers.
- Dependability: The job requires being reliable and fulfilling obligations, often during non-business hours.
- Problem-Solving: The capacity to handle unexpected issues, from a clogged toilet to a major spill.
Key Responsibilities
- General Cleaning: Sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and polishing floors; dusting furniture; and washing windows and walls.
- Waste Management: Emptying trash cans and removing recyclables from the premises.
- Restroom and Kitchen Maintenance: Cleaning and sanitizing restrooms and kitchen areas to maintain hygiene standards.
- Minor Repairs: Performing minor maintenance and repairs, such as replacing light bulbs or fixing a leaky faucet.
- Supply Management: Ordering and maintaining an adequate supply of cleaning materials and equipment.
Five Common Interview Questions
- How do you handle a physically demanding job with long hours?
- This question assesses your physical stamina and your willingness to commit to the job's demanding nature.
- What steps do you take to ensure accuracy and attention to detail in your work?
- This highlights your commitment to quality and your methodical approach to the job.
- Tell me about a time when you had to deal with an unexpected issue, such as a major spill. How did you handle it?
- This behavioral question evaluates your problem-solving skills and your ability to work under pressure.
- What is your experience with specific cleaning equipment, such as a floor buffer or power washer?
- This tests your practical knowledge and your hands-on experience with the tools of the trade.
- How do you ensure proper safety measures are followed, especially when handling cleaning chemicals?
- This assesses your awareness of and commitment to safety protocols.
Questions?
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