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

Jun 19, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The Janitorial Technician plays an important role in maintaining a healthy, clean and safe environment. Their work is essential in ensuring that the premises and its surroundings are free from dirt and debris. They also help prevent the spread of germs and bacteria, which can cause serious health problems.

As a result, they help to protect the health and safety of the people who work or visit the premises. Furthermore, their work also helps to create a positive impression on visitors, clients, and customers. As a result, businesses are able to maintain a good reputation and gain more customers.

Steps How to Become

Get a High School Diploma or GED. A high school diploma or GED is typically required to become a janitorial technician.
Obtain a Certificate. Many colleges and universities offer certificates in janitorial services. These certificates will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to become a janitorial technician.
Get On-the-Job Training. Many employers will provide on-the-job training for janitorial technicians. This is a great way to learn the basics of janitorial work and gain experience in the field.
Obtain Certification. There are several certifications available for janitorial technicians. These certifications will demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field and can help you stand out when applying for jobs.
Look for Job Opportunities. Once you have obtained your certificate and on-the-job training, it is time to look for job opportunities. You can search online or contact local businesses to inquire about janitorial technician positions.

Being a reliable and competent janitorial technician requires a strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. To ensure top quality results, the technician must have in-depth knowledge of cleaning and sanitation techniques and products, as well as the ability to use them appropriately and safely. Good communication skills are also essential, so the technician can effectively collaborate with clients, colleagues, and supervisors.

It is also important to be organized, efficient, and able to multi-task in order to complete tasks quickly and accurately. Finally, being punctual and having a positive attitude can help the technician build trust and loyalty with employers. When all of these elements come together, a janitorial technician can become reliable and competent in their position.

You may want to check Lead Janitor, Janitorial Attendant, and Janitorial Technician III for alternative.

Job Description

Clean and disinfect restrooms, showers, sinks, and countertops.
Vacuum carpets and dust furniture.
Clean windows, mirrors, and fixtures.
Empty wastebaskets and dispose of trash in designated areas.
Wash walls, ceilings, and woodwork.
Sweep, mop, and polish floors.
Change light bulbs and other maintenance tasks as needed.
Monitor building security and safety by performing tasks such as locking doors after operating hours and checking electrical appliance use to ensure that hazards are not created.
Gather and empty trash from all areas of the building.
Replenish restroom supplies, such as toilet paper, soap, and paper towels.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of cleaning equipment, tools and supplies
Ability to follow safety regulations when using cleaning chemicals
Ability to lift and move heavy objects
Ability to follow instructions precisely
Ability to recognize different types of flooring and furniture surfaces
Ability to use a variety of cleaning products safely
Knowledge of basic sanitation procedures
Knowledge of proper disinfecting techniques
Ability to work quickly and efficiently
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Excellent communication skills
Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively
Strong attention to detail
Excellent organizational skills

A successful Janitorial Technician needs to have a variety of skills to be successful. One of the most important skills is the ability to communicate effectively. Good communication helps them to establish good working relationships with co-workers, supervisors, and customers.

It also enables them to understand and follow instructions clearly, and to ask questions when needed. Furthermore, being organized and detail-oriented is essential in order to keep track of tasks, inventory, and supplies. Being physically fit and able to lift and move heavy objects is also important, as janitorial technicians must often lift, carry, and move furniture, equipment, and supplies.

Finally, having a strong knowledge of cleaning chemicals and techniques is essential for ensuring safety and the proper use of cleaning products. All of these skills are necessary for janitorial technicians to successfully complete their tasks in an efficient and effective manner.

Senior Janitor, Janitorial Services Manager, and Janitorial Engineer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with janitorial and cleaning tasks?
What safety protocols do you follow when performing janitorial tasks?
What methods do you use to efficiently clean and maintain an area?
How do you ensure that all surfaces are properly sanitized?
How would you handle a situation in which a customer complains about the cleanliness of an area?
Describe your experience with using cleaning and janitorial equipment?
How do you prioritize your tasks when faced with multiple cleaning and janitorial requests?
Describe a time when you had to quickly clean up an area for a special event?
What is your experience with developing and implementing cleaning schedules?
How do you handle tasks that require physical labor?

Common Tools in Industry

Vacuum Cleaner. A machine used for cleaning carpets, rugs, and floors. (Eg: Dyson V8)
Mop. A tool used for cleaning floors, consisting of a handle and a head made of absorbent material. (Eg: O-Cedar Microfiber Cloth Mop)
Broom. A tool used for sweeping floors, consisting of a handle and bristles. (Eg: Libman Large Angle Broom)
Sponge. A tool made of absorbent material used for wet cleaning. (Eg: Scotch-Brite Non-Scratch Sponge)
Squeegee. A tool used for cleaning windows and other flat surfaces, consisting of a handle and a rubber blade. (Eg: Ettore Professional Squeegee)
Dustpan and Brush. A set of tools used for sweeping dirt and debris, consisting of a dustpan and a brush with a handle. (Eg: Casabella Combo Dustpan and Brush Set)
Window Cleaner. A liquid solution used for cleaning windows. (Eg: Windex Glass Cleaner)
Disinfectant Spray. A liquid solution used for killing germs and bacteria. (Eg: Lysol Disinfectant Spray)
Scrub Brush. A tool used for scrubbing surfaces, consisting of a handle and bristles. (Eg: OXO Good Grips All-Purpose Scrub Brush)
Cleaning Rags. Absorbent materials used for wiping down surfaces. (Eg: Microfiber Cleaning Cloths)

Professional Organizations to Know

Association of Professional Cleaning and Restoration Technicians (APCRT)
International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA)
Building Service Contractors Association International (BSCAI)
International Facility Management Association (IFMA)
International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association (IJCSA)
National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA)
International Window Cleaners Association (IWCA)
National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors (NORMI)
United States Green Building Council (USGBC)
Cleaning Industry Management Standard CIMS

We also have Janitorial Supply Clerk, Janitorial Maintenance Worker, and Janitorial Coordinator jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Housekeeping. The act of maintaining and cleaning a physical space, such as an office or home.
Disinfection. The process of eliminating harmful microorganisms from surfaces or objects.
Carpet Cleaning. The process of removing dirt, dust, and allergens from carpets with vacuum cleaners and specialized cleaning solutions.
Floor Care. A process that includes mopping, sweeping, waxing, buffing, and other techniques to maintain the cleanliness and appearance of floors.
Restroom Maintenance. The process of cleaning and maintaining restrooms, including cleaning toilets, sinks, mirrors, and other fixtures.
Waste Management. The process of collecting, disposing of, and recycling waste materials.
Window Cleaning. The process of removing dirt, dust, and other debris from windows and glass surfaces.
Furniture Cleaning. The process of removing dirt, dust, and other debris from furniture using special tools and cleaning solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Janitorial Technician?

A Janitorial Technician is a skilled professional who performs a variety of cleaning tasks, such as sweeping, mopping, dusting, and sanitizing, to maintain a clean and healthy environment.

What qualifications are needed to become a Janitorial Technician?

To become a Janitorial Technician, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, as well as basic knowledge of cleaning techniques and safety protocols.