Hiring a Janitor: Job Description Template

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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.
  • 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.
  • 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: 

  • Cleaning Expertise
  • Attention to Detail
  • Time Management
  • Safety Awareness
  • Physical Stamina
  • Communication Skills
  • Problem-Solving
  • Equipment Proficiency
  • Organization

It’s important to note that the specific training, certification, and skills required may vary by region, employer, and the type of facility where janitors work. Assess each candidate’s suitability based on your specific cleaning needs.

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?