Janitors and Building Cleaners: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more
- Education Required
- Janitors and building cleaners do not need any formal educational credential. However, high school courses in shop can be helpful for jobs involving repair work.
- Training Required
- Most janitors and building cleaners learn on the job. Beginners typically work with a more experienced janitor, learning how to use and maintain equipment such as vacuums, floor buffers, and other tools. On the job, they also learn how to repair minor electrical and plumbing problems.
- Job Outlook
-
The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 10% (Faster than average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.) - Licenses/Certifications
- Although not required, certification is available through the Building Service Contractors Association International, the IEHA (formerly International Executive Housekeepers Association), and ISSAThe International Sanitary Supply Association. Certification can demonstrate competence and may make applicants more appealing to employers.
- Median pay: How much do Janitors and Building Cleaners make?
- $24,190 Annual Salary
- $11.63 per hour
Janitors and building cleaners keep many types of buildings clean, orderly, and in good condition.
What do Janitors and Building Cleaners do?
Janitors and building cleaners typically do the following:
- Gather and empty trash
- Sweep, mop, or vacuum building floors
- Clean restrooms and stock them with supplies
- Lock doors to secure buildings
- Clean spills and other hazards with appropriate equipment
- Wash windows, walls, and glass
- Order cleaning supplies
- Make minor building repairs
- Notify managers when a building needs major repairs
Janitors and building cleaners keep office buildings, schools, hospitals, retail stores, hotels, and other places clean, sanitary, and in good condition. Some only clean, while others have a wide range of duties.
In addition to keeping the inside of buildings clean and orderly, some janitors and building cleaners work outdoors, mowing lawns, sweeping walkways, and removing snow. Some workers also monitor the buildings heating and cooling system, ensuring that it functions properly.
Janitors and building cleaners use many tools and equipment. Simple cleaning tools may include mops, brooms, rakes, and shovels. Other tools may include snowblowers, floor buffers, and carpet extraction equipment.
Some janitors are responsible for repairing minor electrical or plumbing problems, such as leaky faucets.
The following are examples of types of janitors and building cleaners:
Careers for Janitors and Building Cleaners
- Building custodians
- Building superintendents
- Cleaning and maintenance workers
- Custodial workers
- Custodians
- Floor cleaners
- Heavy duty custodians
- Industrial plant custodians
- Janitors
- Office cleaners
- School custodians
- Window cleaners
- Window washers