How to Be Janitorial Specialist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Mar 14, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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A clean and orderly environment can have a positive effect on those who frequent the space. When janitorial specialists are hired to make sure the area is kept clean and tidy, it can help everyone in the space feel more comfortable. Not only does this create a more pleasant atmosphere, but it also reduces the spread of germs and bacteria, improves air quality, and increases safety.

The presence of janitorial specialists also encourages people to take better care of the space and to respect the property of others. As a result, it helps to create a culture of responsibility and respect among those who use the space, leading to a more productive and enjoyable environment for everyone.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Janitorial specialists typically need a high school diploma or equivalent to be considered for employment.
Consider completing a relevant postsecondary program. Many janitorial service companies prefer to hire specialists who have completed a postsecondary program in a related field, such as building maintenance, janitorial studies, or hospitality management.
Gain experience. Most employers prefer to hire janitorial specialists who have prior experience in the field. Working as a custodian or in another janitorial role can give you the experience you need to become a specialist.
Obtain certification. Depending on where you live, you may need to obtain a license or certification to work as a janitorial specialist. Check with your state or municipality to find out if there are any requirements or certifications you must meet.
Get trained on the job. Once you have obtained the necessary certifications, you can begin working as a janitorial specialist. Many employers provide on-the-job training so that their employees are familiar with their products and services.
Pursue continuing education opportunities. Janitorial specialists need to stay up-to-date on new products, techniques, and regulations in order to stay competitive in the field. Look for continuing education opportunities in your community or online that can help you stay informed and educated about the industry.

Having an ideal and efficient janitorial specialist is essential to any organization. Having an organized, well-maintained workspace can help increase productivity, while improper maintenance can lead to hazardous conditions and a decrease in morale. To ensure an ideal and efficient janitorial specialist, it is important to have the right tools and supplies on hand, such as industrial-grade cleaning solutions, microfiber cloths, and dusters.

In addition, having a proper organizational system in place is essential to ensure that tasks are completed on time and to the highest standard. Having clear expectations for the duties of the janitorial specialist and a detailed checklist of cleaning tasks can ensure that all duties are completed properly and efficiently. Finally, providing regular feedback to the janitorial specialist can help ensure that their performance remains up to the highest standards.

With the proper implementation of these elements, organizations can be sure that their space is clean and well-maintained by an ideal and efficient janitorial specialist.

You may want to check Janitorial Supervisor, Janitorial Manager, and Janitorial Engineer for alternative.

Job Description

Maintain cleanliness of office, manufacturing, or other industrial areas.
Sweep, mop, and vacuum floors.
Empty trash receptacles and replace liners.
Dust and polish furniture and fixtures.
Clean and sanitize restrooms, showers, and locker rooms.
Clean windows, glass partitions, and mirrors.
Wash walls, ceilings, and woodwork.
Perform minor maintenance activities such as painting and replacing light bulbs.
Maintain janitorial supplies inventory.
Mix water and detergents or acids in containers to prepare cleaning solutions, according to specifications.
Monitor building security and safety by performing such tasks as locking doors after operating hours and checking electrical appliance use to ensure that hazards are not created.
Move heavy furniture, equipment, and supplies, either manually or by using hand trucks.
Clean building floors by sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, or vacuuming them.
Gather and empty trash.
Service, clean, and supply restrooms.
Follow procedures for the use of chemical cleaners and power equipment, in order to prevent damage to floors and fixtures.
Mix water and detergents or acids in containers to prepare cleaning solutions, according to specifications.
Clean rugs, carpets, upholstered furniture, and draperies.
Clean laboratory equipment, such as glassware and metal instruments, using solvents, brushes, rags, and power cleaning equipment.
Clean snow from sidewalk using snow blower or other equipment as needed

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of janitorial cleaning methods and procedures.
Ability to understand and complete tasks according to instructions.
Ability to use a variety of cleaning supplies and equipment.
Ability to follow safety procedures and precautions.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Excellent organizational skills.
Ability to lift and carry heavy objects.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Strong communication skills.
Attention to detail.

Being a successful janitorial specialist requires many skills. Attention to detail is one of the most important skills for a janitorial specialist to possess. Cleaning an area thoroughly and quickly requires an eye for detail, as well as an ability to identify potential issues that could impact the cleanliness of the space.

time management is key; a janitorial specialist must be able to complete tasks quickly and efficiently in order to meet the needs of their clients. Customer service is another essential skill, as the janitorial specialist must be able to interact with customers and ensure they are satisfied with the services they receive. physical fitness is important, as the job can require a lot of standing, lifting, and bending.

Finally, being organized and having good communication skills are essential for ensuring that tasks are completed correctly and that other workers are aware of any changes or updates. All of these skills combined make a successful janitorial specialist.

Janitorial Technician, Janitorial Attendant, and Lead Janitor are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in janitorial services?
How would you handle a situation where a customer was unhappy with your work?
What safety procedures do you follow when cleaning?
How do you prioritize tasks while on the job?
Tell me about a time when you had to use innovative methods to complete a janitorial project.
What cleaning products and equipment are you familiar with?
How do you handle working with hazardous materials?
What is your experience dealing with different types of floors, surfaces and furniture?
Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot a janitorial problem.
What strategies do you use to maintain high standards of cleanliness and hygiene?

Common Tools in Industry

Mop. Used for cleaning floors, (eg: microfiber mop).
Vacuum Cleaner. Used for cleaning carpets, rugs, and upholstery, (eg: upright vacuum).
Broom. Used for sweeping floors and collecting dust, (eg: push broom).
Scrub Brush. Used for scrubbing hard surfaces, (eg: long-handled scrub brush).
Dustpan. Used for collecting dust, dirt, and debris, (eg: plastic dustpan).
Squeegee. Used for cleaning windows, (eg: rubber squeegee).
Cleaning Cloths. Used for wiping surfaces, (eg: microfiber cloths).
Disinfectant. Used for killing germs and bacteria, (eg: bleach solution).
Trash Bags. Used for collecting garbage, (eg: heavy-duty garbage bags).
Toilet Brushes. Used for cleaning toilets and sinks, (eg: toilet bowl scrubber).

Professional Organizations to Know

International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA)
Building Service Contractors Association International (BSCAI)
National Association of Professional Housecleaners (NAPHC)
International Association for Healthcare Textile Management (IAHTM)
National Association of Professional Cleaners (NAPC)
National Association of Professional Janitorial Services (NAPJS)
American Society for Healthcare Environmental Services (ASHES)
American Cleaning Institute (ACI)
Facility Management Association of America (FMA)
International Facility Management Association (IFMA)

We also have Janitorial Supply Clerk, Janitorial Cleaning Specialist, and Janitorial Services Manager jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Housekeeping. The process of cleaning, tidying, and maintaining various areas of a building.
Cleaning Supplies. Various products used to clean and maintain a space.
Dusting. The process of removing dust and dirt particles from surfaces using a cloth or brush.
Vacuuming. The process of using a vacuum cleaner to remove dirt, dust, and other debris from carpets and other surfaces.
Sanitizing. The process of cleaning and disinfecting a space to remove germs, bacteria, and other pathogens.
Mopping. The process of using a mop and cleaning solution to clean floors.
Carpet Cleaning. The process of deep cleaning carpets to remove dirt, stains, and odors.
Window Washing. The process of cleaning windows to remove dirt, dust, and streaks.
Trash Removal. The process of collecting and disposing of trash from a space.
Restroom Cleaning. The process of cleaning and sanitizing bathrooms to remove dirt, germs, and bacteria.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Janitorial Specialist?

A Janitorial Specialist is a professional who specializes in providing janitorial services, such as cleaning and maintaining buildings and other facilities.

What qualifications are needed to become a Janitorial Specialist?

To become a Janitorial Specialist, you typically need to possess a high school diploma or equivalent and have some experience in janitorial services. Additionally, you may need to complete a specialized training program.

How much does a Janitorial Specialist make?

The average salary for a Janitorial Specialist is $29,000 per year, depending on experience and the size of the organization they work for.

What tasks does a Janitorial Specialist do?

The tasks of a Janitorial Specialist vary depending on their organization, but typical responsibilities include sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, dusting, cleaning bathrooms, sanitizing surfaces, emptying trash cans, and replenishing supplies.

What safety measures do Janitorial Specialists need to follow?

Janitorial Specialists need to adhere to safety protocols and guidelines such as wearing personal protective equipment (PPE), using the right cleaning products for different surfaces, and following proper lifting techniques.