Salary and Outlook

According to the US Department of Labor, there are 2,298,400 people employed as janitors and cleaners, except maids and housekeeping cleaners in the United States. The median annual salary is $29,760. Entry level employees earn approximately $22,340 per year and senior employees earn approximately $46,300 per year.

Estimates do not include other potential benefits such as health insurance, overtime pay, or retirement benefits that may be offered by employers.

Job Duties

• Service, clean, or supply restrooms.
• Clean building floors by sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, or vacuuming.
• Gather and empty trash.
• Follow procedures for the use of chemical cleaners and power equipment to prevent damage to floors and fixtures.
• Mow or trim lawns or shrubbery, using mowers or hand or power trimmers, and clear debris from grounds.
• 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.
• Notify managers concerning the need for major repairs or additions to building operating systems.
• Requisition supplies or equipment needed for cleaning and maintenance duties.
• Dust furniture, walls, machines, or equipment.
• Strip, seal, finish, and polish floors.
• Clean and polish furniture and fixtures.
• Steam-clean or shampoo carpets.
• Move heavy furniture, equipment, or supplies, either manually or with hand trucks.
• Remove snow from sidewalks, driveways, or parking areas, using snowplows, snow blowers, or snow shovels, or spread snow-melting chemicals.
• 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.
• Clean laboratory equipment, such as glassware or metal instruments, using solvents, brushes, rags, or power cleaning equipment.
• Set up, arrange, or remove decorations, tables, chairs, ladders, or scaffolding to prepare facilities for events, such as banquets or meetings.
• Make adjustments or minor repairs to heating, cooling, ventilating, plumbing, or electrical systems.
• Clean and restore building interiors damaged by fire, smoke, or water, using commercial cleaning equipment.
• Spray insecticides or fumigants to prevent insect or rodent infestation.
• Drive vans, industrial trucks, or other vehicles required to travel to, or to perform, cleaning work.
• Clean chimneys, flues, and connecting pipes, using power or hand tools.

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