- Maintain clean, sanitary, and safe environments across all areas of the facility
- Ensure operational efficiency by keeping spaces organized and well-maintained
- Support health and wellness by preventing the spread of germs and illnesses through proper sanitation
- Create a professional and welcoming atmosphere for employees, clients, and visitors
- Minimize workplace disruptions by maintaining orderly and functional spaces
- Protect building assets through proper maintenance and timely reporting of repair needs
- Uphold safety standards by following proper protocols when handling chemicals and equipment
- Ensure compliance with enhanced sanitization protocols and cleaning procedures
Objectives
Responsibilities
- Sweep, mop, vacuum, and polish floors throughout the facility
- Clean and sanitize restrooms and restock supplies including toilet paper, paper towels, and soap
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces such as desks, door handles, phones, and office tools
- Wash windows, walls, mirrors, and glass surfaces
- Empty trash cans and recycling bins and dispose of waste properly
- Dust furniture, fixtures, and surfaces regularly
- Clean up spills and other hazards using appropriate equipment and procedures
- Operate cleaning equipment including floor scrubbers, buffers, vacuums, and power washers
- Maintain outdoor grounds by mowing lawns, trimming bushes, and removing litter
- Remove debris, snow, and ice from sidewalks and building entrances
- Perform minor repairs such as changing lightbulbs, unclogging toilets, and fixing leaky faucets
- Notify supervisors of major repairs or unsafe conditions
- Maintain and organize cleaning supply inventory and place orders for new products when needed
- Replace air filters and assist with HVAC system maintenance
- Lock doors and secure buildings at the end of shifts
- Follow safety protocols and complete tasks according to cleaning checklists
- Assist with event setup or emergency cleanups when needed
- Work with hazardous waste departments and sanitation teams for proper disposal
Required Skills & Qualifications
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
- Physical stamina to stand, walk, bend, and lift for extended periods
- Ability to lift and move at least 50 pounds
- Basic understanding of cleaning techniques and proper use of cleaning products
- Knowledge of safety guidelines when working with chemical cleaners and equipment
- Good time management skills and ability to prioritize tasks
- Reliable and punctual with strong attendance record
- Attention to detail to ensure thorough cleaning and maintenance
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions
- Must be authorized to work in the United States
- Must be willing to undergo background check and drug screening
- Reliable transportation and valid driver's license (for some positions)
- Ability to work flexible schedules including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays
Preferred Skills & Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Previous janitorial or custodial experience (1-2 years preferred)
- Professional house cleaning or commercial cleaning experience
- Experience with GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices) or cleanroom environments
- Certifications in specialized cleaning areas such as carpet cleaning or biohazard cleaning
- Leadership experience for supervisory janitorial roles
- Basic mechanical skills for performing minor building repairs
- Knowledge of building operations and HVAC systems
- Familiarity with technology including smartphones, GPS, and email
- Business liability insurance (for independent contractor positions)
- Strong customer service and interpersonal skills
- Professional references from previous cleaning positions
- Bilingual abilities (English conversational level acceptable)
Download Free Janitor Job Description
Get a professionally crafted job description template for janitor roles. Our comprehensive PDF includes objectives, responsibilities, and required qualifications.
What Does a Janitor Do?
A Janitor cleans, maintains, and sanitizes buildings to create safe, orderly, and professional environments. They perform these essential tasks to ensure operational efficiency and protect the health of building occupants.
Organizations need janitors because they serve as the foundation for maintaining acceptable working conditions across offices, hospitals, schools, and commercial buildings. Janitors help employees focus on their core responsibilities by eliminating clutter, managing waste, and creating organized spaces that promote productivity and professionalism.
Janitors need a combination of physical stamina, organizational skills, and knowledge of cleaning products and equipment. They must understand safety protocols for handling chemicals, possess good time management abilities, and demonstrate attention to detail to maintain high cleanliness standards throughout diverse facilities.
What Are the Responsibilities of a Janitor?
The responsibilities of a Janitor are cleaning and maintaining all areas of buildings including floors, restrooms, windows, and shared spaces while ensuring safety and sanitation standards are met. This comprehensive approach to facility maintenance encompasses both routine tasks and responsive cleaning needs.
Janitor duties include sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, disinfecting surfaces, emptying trash, restocking supplies, and performing minor repairs. They also operate specialized equipment like floor buffers and power washers, maintain outdoor areas, and secure buildings after hours.
Understanding these responsibilities helps employers identify candidates who can independently manage cleaning schedules, follow detailed procedures, and maintain the pristine environments that support organizational success through relevant interview questions.