How to Be Hotel Custodian - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 26, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Hotel Custodians are an integral part of the hotel industry, as they are responsible for ensuring the cleanliness and upkeep of the hotel's premises. As a result, guests are provided with a safe and comfortable environment to enjoy their stay in. Furthermore, hotel custodians are also responsible for minor repairs and maintenance, including plumbing and electrical work, which can help address any potential guest issues quickly.

hotel custodians also ensure that all safety and security regulations are being followed, helping to guarantee a secure environment for all guests. Without hotel custodians, the quality of the hotel would be greatly diminished and guests would not have a pleasant experience during their stay.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or a GED. Most custodian positions require at least a high school diploma or GED and some may require additional education.
Seek entry-level custodial positions. Many custodians start out in entry-level positions working for large hotels, such as Holiday Inn or Marriott. These entry-level positions typically involve cleaning and maintaining the hotel rooms, hallways, lobbies and other common areas.
Participate in on-the-job training. Many employers provide on-the-job training to teach you how to perform specific tasks, such as how to use the cleaning equipment or the chemicals used in the hotel.
Learn hotel policies and procedures. As a custodian, you will be expected to follow all of the hotel's policies and procedures, such as when guests can enter the lobby or what type of cleaning supplies to use on carpets.
Develop customer service skills. As a custodian, you may be required to interact with hotel guests, so it is important to develop good customer service skills. This includes being friendly and polite to guests, answering any questions they may have, and responding to any complaints they may have about the hotel.
Stay up-to-date on safety regulations. Custodians must stay up-to-date on all safety regulations that pertain to their job, such as proper storage of hazardous materials and proper use of cleaning chemicals.
Consider furthering your education. Many employers prefer custodians who have more education or additional certifications, such as a CSCS (Certified Support Services Technician) certification.
Work towards becoming a lead custodian. Once you have gained experience as a custodian, you may be able to work your way up to a lead custodian position. Lead custodians are responsible for supervising other custodians, overseeing the day-to-day cleaning operations of the hotel, and ensuring that all policies and procedures are being followed.

The hotel custodian must stay ahead and competent in order to remain successful. This requires frequent training and education, as well as staying up-to-date with new technologies and procedures. it is important to be able to think critically and problem-solve in order to anticipate challenges and take proactive measures to avoid them.

Communication skills and the ability to work well with a wide variety of people are also essential for success. Finally, a strong work ethic and an understanding of the importance of safety protocols are critical to ensure that all guests have a safe and enjoyable stay. With dedication and attention to detail, a hotel custodian can remain ahead and competent in their work.

You may want to check Hotel Front Desk Agent, Hotel Room Attendant, and Hotel Manager for alternative.

Job Description

Clean and maintain assigned areas, including but not limited to: lobbies, hallways, restrooms, public areas, and guest rooms.
Vacuum carpets and clean floors.
Empty trash and replace liners in public areas.
Dust furniture, fixtures, and window sills.
Clean glass surfaces.
Clean and polish fixtures and fittings.
Refill supplies in restrooms.
Change sheets and towels in guest rooms.
Respond to guest requests promptly and courteously.
Report any maintenance issues to supervisor.
Clean spills and other accidents promptly.
Maintain an organized and safe work environment.
Follow all safety regulations and guidelines.
Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of cleaning and maintenance techniques
Ability to use cleaning and maintenance materials and equipment safely
Attention to detail when tidying and cleaning rooms
Ability to lift, move, and carry objects of varying weights
Ability to work independently and follow instructions
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends
Ability to communicate effectively with hotel staff and guests
Ability to adhere to health and safety regulations and maintain a safe working environment
Ability to solve problems quickly and efficiently
Strong time management and organizational skills

Being a hotel custodian requires a number of important skills in order to be successful. Attention to detail is essential for ensuring that all areas of the hotel are kept clean and tidy. Being familiar with common cleaning products and methods is important for sanitizing and disinfecting surfaces throughout the facility.

Time management is also a must, as custodians need to ensure that all rooms and public areas are cleaned thoroughly and on schedule. Good communication skills are needed when working with guests, staff and management, as custodians are often asked questions or given instructions. Lastly, the ability to work independently is key, as custodians are often required to complete tasks without supervision.

All of these skills are essential for being an effective hotel custodian, and when combined with a strong work ethic and dedication to providing excellent customer service, can lead to a successful career in the hospitality industry.

Hotel Chef, Hotel Bellhop, and Hotel Groundskeeper are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

How long have you been a Hotel Custodian?
What duties have you performed as a Hotel Custodian?
What experience do you have in the hospitality industry?
How do you handle difficult guests or situations?
What is your experience with safety and security protocols?
What do you do to ensure guest areas are always clean and presentable?
What is your experience with standard hotel cleaning supplies and equipment?
How do you prioritize tasks when faced with competing deadlines?
How do you manage guest complaints or inquiries?
What do you think are the most important qualities of a successful Hotel Custodian?

Common Tools in Industry

Vacuum Cleaner. Used to clean carpets and floors (eg: Hoover WindTunnel Vacuum Cleaner).
Broom and Dust Pan. Used to sweep floors (eg: O-Cedar Angler Angle Broom with Dustpan).
Window Cleaner. Used to clean windows (eg: Windex Glass Cleaner).
Mop and Bucket. Used for general cleaning (eg: Rubbermaid WaveBrake Mopping System).
Carpet Shampooer. Used to deep clean carpets (eg: Bissell Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner).
Toilet Bowl Brush. Used to clean toilets (eg: Lysol Bowl Brush and Caddy).
Disinfectant Sprayer. Used to disinfect surfaces (eg: Clorox Disinfecting Spray).
Glass Cleaner. Used to clean mirrors and glass surfaces (eg: Windex Multi-Surface Cleaner).
Sponges and Scourers. Used to clean surfaces (eg: Scotch-Brite Heavy Duty Scrub Sponges).
Trash Bags. Used to collect and dispose of trash (eg: Hefty Strong Trash Bags).

Professional Organizations to Know

International Association of Building Officials
International Association of Facility Managers
International Janitors and Custodians Association
National Association of Professional Housekeepers
National Institute for Cleaning Excellence
International Sanitary Supply Association
Building Service Contractors Association International
American Hotel & Lodging Association
International Housekeeping Association
Professional Cleaning and Maintenance Association

We also have Hotel Housekeeper, Hotel General Manager, and Hotel Reservation Agent jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Housekeeping. The process of cleaning and maintaining the interior and exterior of a hotel or other lodging facility.
Groundskeeping. The maintenance of the outdoor areas of a hotel, such as the grounds, gardens, and landscaping.
Laundry. The process of washing, drying, and ironing linens, towels, and other hotel items.
Janitorial Services. The cleaning and maintenance of common areas of a hotel, such as lobbies, hallways, restrooms, and stairwells.
Maintenance. The repair and upkeep of mechanical and electrical systems in a hotel.
Security. The protection of the guests, employees, and property of a hotel from theft or harm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the role of a Hotel Custodian?

A Hotel Custodian is responsible for providing cleaning and maintenance services in a hotel or hospitality setting, including guest rooms, public areas, and back-of-house areas. They may also be responsible for stocking supplies, repairing furniture, and responding to guest requests.

What qualifications are required to become a Hotel Custodian?

Most employers require Hotel Custodians to have a high school diploma or equivalent and some custodial or maintenance experience. Basic knowledge of cleaning equipment and techniques is also necessary.

What hours do Hotel Custodians typically work?

Hotel Custodians typically work full-time hours, though some may work part-time hours as well. Hours may vary depending on the hotel's needs and the custodian's availability.

What is the average salary of a Hotel Custodian?

According to PayScale, the average annual salary for a Hotel Custodian is $26,754. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and other factors.

What are some of the duties of a Hotel Custodian?

Some of the duties of a Hotel Custodian include cleaning guest rooms and public areas, stocking supplies, repairing furniture, responding to guest requests, and ensuring the safety and security of guests.