Whether it’s a billion-dollar company or a world-renowned hospital, facilities must be clean and functional for organizations to get their work done. Janitors and building cleaners keep many types of buildings clean, orderly, and in good condition. Janitors and building cleaners use a variety of manual and mechanical tools in their work. Some have a range of duties beyond cleaning; they may work outdoors… mowing lawns, sweeping walkways, and removing snow… and monitor a building’s heating and cooling systems to ensure they function properly. Some make minor electrical and plumbing repairs. They have different job titles in some facilities: Building superintendents maintain residential buildings, and may help collect rent and show vacancies to potential tenants. Custodians maintain institutions such as public schools and hospitals. Janitors spend the day walking, standing, or bending and may need to move heavy supplies and equipment. Since they have an above average rate of injuries and illnesses, workers are increasingly required to undergo safety training. Minor cuts, bruises, and burns are common. Most janitors work full time. Because office buildings are usually cleaned after office hours, many cleaners work evenings. Janitors in schools usually work during the day. When there is a need for 24-hour maintenance, as there often is in hospitals and hotels, janitors work in shifts.
What they do:
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.
On the job, you would:
Service, clean, or supply restrooms.
Clean building floors by sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, or vacuuming.
Gather and empty trash.
Business
customer service
Arts and Humanities
English language
Basic Skills
listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
Social
changing what is done based on other people's actions
Hand and Finger Use
hold or move items with your hands
Ideas and Logic
make general rules or come up with answers from lots of detailed information
People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
They do well at jobs that need:
Independence
Dependability
Attention to Detail
Integrity
Self Control
Concern for Others
You might use software like this on the job:
Spreadsheet software
Microsoft Excel
Desktop communications software
Eko
Office suite software
Microsoft Office software
high school diploma/GED or no high school diploma/GED usually needed
Get started on your career:
New job opportunities are very likely in the future.
In the Marine Corps:
Barracks and Grounds Marine; Marine Aide
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