Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners
Also called Cleaner, Custodial Worker, Custodian, or Janitor
What Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners do
Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners keep buildings in clean and orderly condition. Perform heavy cleaning duties, such as cleaning floors, shampooing rugs, washing walls and glass, and removing rubbish. Duties may include tending furnace and boiler, performing routine maintenance activities, notifying management of need for repairs, and cleaning snow or debris from sidewalk.
Who tends to enjoy it
Hands-on
People who like building, fixing, working with tools, machines, plants, or animals.
Organizing
People who like keeping things accurate, orderly, and running on schedule.
Helping
People who like teaching, caring for, and working closely with people.
What you'd actually do
- Service, clean, or supply restrooms.
- Gather and empty trash.
- Clean building floors by sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, or vacuuming.
- Monitor building security and safety by performing tasks such as locking doors after operating hours or checking electrical appliance use to ensure that hazards are not created.
- Notify managers concerning the need for major repairs or additions to building operating systems.
- Follow procedures for the use of chemical cleaners and power equipment to prevent damage to floors and fixtures.
- Mix water and detergents or acids in containers to prepare cleaning solutions, according to specifications.
- Clean windows, glass partitions, or mirrors, using soapy water or other cleaners, sponges, or squeegees.
A typical day involves
Skills that matter most
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Critical Thinking
- Monitoring
- Coordination
- Time Management
What you'll need to know
- Public Safety and Security
- Administration and Management
- English Language
- Customer and Personal Service
- Transportation
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Source: O*NET 31.0 Database (USDOL/ETA), occupation 37-2011.00, used under CC BY 4.0 and modified by Whittle. Program links: NCES CIP 2020 to SOC 2018 crosswalk. How we build these pages.