Hiring a Janitor: Job Description Template (2024)

In the business world, first impressions matter, and cleanliness plays a pivotal role in creating a positive image. Hiring a janitor is a critical step in maintaining a clean and organized workplace, so a well-defined janitor’s job description and a systematic hiring process can ensure that you find the right janitor who will help uphold your organization’s cleanliness standards.

In this guide, we will explore the responsibilities of a janitor, the step-by-step process for hiring one, and considerations regarding costs and compensation.

Hiring a Janitor: Job Description Template (1)

Responsibilities & Role of a Janitor

Janitors play a vital role in keeping a workspace safe and hygienic. Before diving into the hiring process, it’s essential to understand the core duties and functions that a janitor typically takes on. While specific responsibilities may vary depending on the facility’s size and needs, the following duties are fundamental to the role:

Cleaning and Sanitizing: The janitor you hire will be responsible for cleaning and sanitizing various areas of the workplace, including restrooms, break rooms, offices, and common areas. This involves tasks such as sweeping, mopping, dusting, vacuuming, and disinfecting surfaces.
Trash Removal and Floor Care: They will collect and dispose of trash, ensuring that waste is properly sorted and disposed of in accordance with local regulations. Depending on the type of flooring in your facility, the person may need to wax, polish, or shampoo carpets to maintain their appearance.
Restocking Supplies and Maintenance Reporting: Keeping track of cleaning supplies and restroom essentials and ensuring that soap, paper towels, and toilet paper are consistently available are the duties of the janitor. They will often report any maintenance issues or repairs during their cleaning routines, helping address potential safety hazards promptly.
Adherence to Safety Protocols: They will follow safety guidelines and use appropriate cleaning agents and equipment to prevent accidents and maintain a safe working environment.
Flexibility: The janitor may be required to adapt their cleaning schedule to accommodate special events or unforeseen circ*mstances.

How to Hire a Janitor

Finding the right janitor for your organization involves a structured hiring process. Follow these essential steps to identify and hire a janitor who meets your cleanliness standards and workplace needs:

1. Define Your Cleaning Needs

Before you start the hiring process, clearly define your cleaning needs. Consider factors such as:

The size and layout of your facility.
The frequency and timing of cleaning required (daily, weekly, or monthly).
Specific cleaning tasks and areas that require attention.
Any specialized cleaning requirements, such as handling hazardous materials.

By outlining your cleaning needs, you’ll be better equipped to communicate expectations to potential candidates.

2. Job Posting and Advertising

After outlining your cleaning requirements, craft an engaging job listing. You can promote the position using different avenues:

Local Newspapers: Traditional advertising in local newspapers can still be effective, especially if you’re targeting candidates in your immediate area. Local newspapers and community bulletin boards are still valuable for reaching candidates in your immediate area. Many job seekers prefer to look for local opportunities.
Company Website: Consider adding a dedicated careers page on your company’s website where you can post job openings, including janitorial positions. This allows potential candidates to learn more about your organization and apply directly.
Job Posting Websites: Some specialized job posting websites focus on janitorial and cleaning roles, such as CleanNet USA. This platform caters specifically to the industry.
Janitorial Associations: If your company is a janitorial or cleaning industry association member, such as BSCAI (Building Service Contractors Association International), you may be able to post job listings on their websites or in their newsletters.
Referrals: Encourage current employees or business contacts to refer suitable candidates. Employee referrals often yield quality hires.

After reviewing the certifications and qualifications, determine which is significant for your cleaning needs.

3. Screen Applications and Resumes

As resumes and applications start coming in, carefully review each one. Check for relevant experience, certifications, and training. Look for candidates who have prior janitorial experience, knowledge of cleaning procedures, and any relevant certifications like safety or green cleaning.

Pay close attention to the candidate’s work history. Look for consistency in employment, and be cautious of gaps or frequent job changes. Verify the accuracy of the information provided.

Evaluate the applicant’s skills and abilities related to janitorial work. This may include assessing their proficiency in cleaning techniques, handling cleaning equipment, and following safety protocols.

Training or certifications to look out for:

Basic Cleaning Training: This training typically covers tasks like sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and disinfecting surfaces.
Safety Training: Safety is a top priority for janitors, and they should receive training on handling chemicals safely, using personal protective equipment (PPE), and following Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines.
Green Cleaning Certification: With the growing emphasis on environmentally friendly cleaning practices, janitors may benefit from certifications related to green cleaning.

Skills to look out for:

4. Conduct Interviews

Shortlist candidates and conduct interviews to assess their qualifications and suitability. Customize your interview questions to evaluate the candidate’s skills, experience, and fit for your organization.

Ask candidates about their previous janitorial experience and the types of facilities they have worked in. This will help you gain insight into how they efficiently handle and prioritize cleaning tasks.

Inquire about the cleaning equipment and chemicals they are familiar with and how they ensure safety when handling cleaning chemicals and operating equipment.

Ask for an example of a challenging cleaning situation they have encountered and how they resolved it.

Ask candidates to provide specific examples of their actions and outcomes. This approach helps you gauge their problem-solving skills, work ethic, and ability to adapt to different cleaning challenges.

Select candidates who demonstrate the skills and qualities necessary to maintain a clean and safe workspace.

5. On-Site Cleaning Test

Consider conducting an on-site cleaning test as part of the hiring process. This practical evaluation allows you to assess a candidate’s cleaning skills and attention to detail in a real-world setting. Provide specific instructions and evaluate their performance in cleaning designated areas.

6. Check References

Contact the candidate’s references to gain insights into their work ethic, reliability, and performance as a janitor. Ask about their ability to meet cleaning standards and their overall professionalism.

Ask these questions:

Did the candidate maintain a clean, organized work area and effectively manage cleaning supplies?
How did the candidate handle challenging cleaning situations or unexpected cleaning issues?
Did the candidate demonstrate effective communication skills with colleagues, supervisors, and building occupants?
Was the candidate able to work independently and manage their cleaning tasks effectively?

Tips for Avoiding Red Flags During the Hiring Process

Lack of Relevant Experience: If an applicant has no prior janitorial experience and does not possess relevant certifications or training, it may be a red flag.
Inconsistent Work History: Frequent job changes or unexplained employment gaps may raise concerns about reliability and commitment.
Poorly Presented Resume: Resumes with numerous typos, inaccuracies, or incomplete information may indicate a lack of attention to detail.
Negative References: Negative feedback from references or difficulties in verifying employment history should be investigated further.

Janitor Job Description

A detailed job description is vital for attracting the right janitor candidates. Here’s an example of a comprehensive janitor job description template:

Download Template

Job Title:Janitor

Company:[Your Company Name]

Location:[Location]

Job Type:[Full Time / Part Time / Contract]

Salary:[Salary / Competitive / DOE]

About Us:

[Provide a brief description of your company, its values, and its commitment to maintaining a clean and safe work environment.]

The Opportunity:

Are you a dedicated and detail-oriented individual with a passion for cleanliness? Join our team at [Your Company Name] as a Janitor and play a vital role in creating a hygienic and organized workspace for our employees and visitors.

Your Responsibilities:

As a Janitor, you will be responsible for:

To maintain cleanliness in assigned areas, perform general cleaning tasks, including sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and dusting.
Empty trash receptacles, replace liners and dispose of waste in accordance with established procedures.
Clean and sanitize restroom facilities, including toilets, sinks, and mirrors, and replenish restroom supplies like soap and paper towels.
Maintain and care for various types of flooring, including carpet, hardwood, and tile, by vacuuming, shampooing, and polishing as needed.
Clean and polish windows, glass partitions, and mirrors to ensure a clear, streak-free appearance.
Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, handrails, and light switches, to promote hygiene and safety.
Monitor and replenish cleaning supplies, toiletries, and janitorial equipment as needed.
Ensure the proper maintenance and safe operation of cleaning equipment, such as vacuum cleaners, floor buffers, and pressure washers.
Manage waste disposal processes, including sorting recyclables, and follow eco-friendly waste management practices when applicable.
To maintain their appearance and extend their lifespan, they perform floor care tasks, such as stripping, waxing, and buffing floors.
Report and address minor maintenance issues, such as burned-out light bulbs, loose fixtures, or plumbing leaks.
Respond promptly and effectively to emergency cleanup situations, such as spills or accidents.
Conduct routine security checks of the facility, ensuring that doors and windows are secured after cleaning.
Depending on the facility type, perform specialized cleaning tasks, such as cleaning laboratory equipment, medical equipment, or industrial machinery.

What You’ll Bring:

To excel in this role, you should possess:

High school diploma or equivalent.
Proven experience as a janitor or custodian.
Knowledge of cleaning techniques and best practices.
Familiarity with cleaning equipment and supplies.
Proficiency in sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, and sanitizing.
Ability to operate and maintain cleaning equipment (e.g., vacuum cleaners, floor buffers).
Knowledge of safe handling of cleaning chemicals and materials.
Understanding of safety protocols, including OSHA guidelines.
Attention to detail and thoroughness in cleaning tasks.
Strong time management skills for efficient task prioritization.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for interactions with colleagues and building occupants.
Problem-solving abilities to address cleaning challenges.
Adaptability to handle unexpected cleaning issues.Alignment with the organization’s values and commitment to cleanliness, safety, and professionalism.
Commitment to eco-friendly cleaning practices and sustainability.
Alignment with the organization’s values and commitment to cleanliness, safety, and professionalism.
Willingness to work during non-standard hours, including evenings or weekends.

Benefits and Perks:

Competitive salary.
Health insurance.
Flexible hours.
Steady Income.
Performance-based compensation.
Minimal education requirements.
Paid time off.
Access to employee assistance programs.
Learning opportunities.
Opportunities for part-time work.
Employee discounts.
Performance bonuses.
Health and wellness programs.
Uniforms and safety gear.
Access to employee break rooms.
Safety training.
Professional development.
Recognition and awards.
Team building activities.
Transportation assistance.
Employee referral program.
Access to employee assistance programs.
Employee appreciation events.
Access to on-site facilities.
Community involvement.
Flexible scheduling.

How to Join Us:

If you are a dedicated and reliable individual looking to make a difference through cleanliness, we invite you to apply for the Janitor position at [Your Company Name]. Please send your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications to [email address] with the subject line “Application for Janitor Position – [Your Name].”

[Your Company Name] is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences.

Closing Date for Applications:[Insert Closing Date]

Please notethat only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. We appreciate your interest in joining our dedicated cleaning team at [Your Company Name].

Note: Customize this template to align with your company’s precise requirements and the unique responsibilities of the janitorial position you aim to fill.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Janitor?

Hiring a janitor involves several expenses businesses should consider when budgeting for this essential role. It’s essential to factor in these costs to ensure a smooth hiring process and the effective maintenance of your workplace’s cleanliness. Here are key cost considerations:

Recruitment Costs

This encompasses costs associated with job opening advertisem*nts, the engagement of recruitment agencies, and the implementation of background checks, interviews, or pre-employment assessments. Let us look at some of the costs of using online job boards.

CleanNet USA: This cleaning service charges per square foot, hourly and monthly. Cleaning per square foot costs $0.05 to $0.15, hourly cleaning costs $20 to $50, and monthly cleaning costs $800 to $5,000.

Salary and Benefits

The core financial commitment when hiring a janitor is their salary. Salaries for janitors can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the size of the facility. Ensure the offered salary is competitive with the local job market and aligned with the candidate’s qualifications.

The average salary of a janitor ranges from $10.47 to $21.33 hourly, $108 to $220 daily, $517 to $1,054, and $2,002 to $4,079 monthly.

Benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off should also be included in the budget.

Cleaning Supplies and Equipment

Janitors require a range of cleaning supplies and equipment to perform their duties effectively. These include cleaning agents, mops, brooms, vacuum cleaners, disinfectants, and safety gear. Allocate a budget for the initial purchase of these supplies and ongoing replenishment.

Training Materials and Certifications

Invest in training for your janitorial staff to ensure they are knowledgeable about cleaning best practices and safety protocols. Additionally, some janitors may benefit from certifications in areas like hazardous materials handling or specialized cleaning techniques.

Uniforms and Safety Gear

Providing uniforms and safety gear for your janitorial staff is essential. Budget for purchasing and maintaining uniforms, as well as personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, masks, and safety shoes.