What does a cleaner do?
Although the job duties of a cleaner vary depending on the employer and type of business, there are some common duties that all cleaners perform. In a large office building, for example, a cleaner is responsible for cleaning the bathrooms, mopping the floors, and taking out the trash. In a medical facility, cleaners are usually responsible for sterilizing equipment and surfaces. In a large-scale industrial facility, you'll often see them cleaning up hazardous materials. They use floor polishing machines, power washers, and other equipment to clean their assigned areas.
More than simply cleaning
Some cleaners also have additional duties, such as cleaning windows or restocking supplies. In some cases, you’ll be responsible for setting up or breaking down meeting rooms or other areas of the business. It’s possible for you to be responsible for cleaning equipment or vehicles.
Keeping stock of supplies
Cleaners typically use a variety of cleaning supplies, including mops, cleaning solutions, and vacuums. Sponges, rags, and brushes are also required in this role. It's important to keep track of the supplies you use so that you replenish them when necessary.
View RolesWhat is the average salary of a cleaner?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for cleaners is $29,760. That translates to an hourly wage of $14. There are many factors that will affect your salary as a cleaner, such as your experience, the type of business you work for, and the location of the business.
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Type of business
Virtually all types of businesses need cleaners. You will find employment in a variety of settings, including stores and office buildings, schools, and hospitals. However, some businesses are more likely to pay higher wages than others. For example, cleaners who work in hospitals typically earn more than those who work in retail stores.
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Location
Cleaners who work in large cities typically earn more than those who work in small towns. This is because the cost of living is higher in large cities, and businesses must pay their employees more to offset these costs.
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Industry
There are many different industries that hire cleaners, including healthcare, education, and hospitality. Usually, the industries that pay the highest wages are those that require cleaners to have more experience or specialized skills. Also, industries in which cleaners face the highest risks of injury usually pay higher wages.
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Experience
As with most jobs, cleaners who have more experience usually earn higher wages than those who are just starting out. In many cases, cleaners tend to advance to supervisory positions in which they earn higher wages and have more responsibility.
Working as a cleaner
As a cleaner, you will handle specific responsibilities and typically work with a team of other cleaners. You will also use various cleaning equipment to complete daily tasks. This job requires flexibility and attention to detail as you will have the opportunity to work in a range of environments that need various levels of cleaning. This job is in high demand because all types of organizations and industries require cleaners to clean and maintain facilities.
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What are the responsibilities of a cleaner?
One of the most important responsibilities of a cleaner is to maintain a clean and safe environment. This includes cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, vacuuming floors, and emptying trash cans. Cleaners also tend to be responsible for restocking supplies such as toilet paper and soap. In some cases, you’re also responsible for setting up or breaking down meeting rooms or other areas of the business. For instance, sometimes, you move furniture or clean equipment. As a cleaner, you'll often have to follow safety procedures to avoid injuries. For example, you will have to use proper lifting techniques when moving heavy objects. You will also need to be aware of potential hazards, such as slippery floors or sharp edges.
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What type of equipment do cleaners use?
One of the most important pieces of equipment for cleaners is a vacuum cleaner. This helps them remove dirt, dust, and other debris from floors and carpets. Cleaners also use mops, buckets, and rags to clean surfaces. In some cases, you may use power washers or other types of cleaning equipment. Additionally, cleaners use a variety of cleaning solutions to disinfect surfaces and remove stains. This requires you to be familiar with the proper use of these products. It's also worth noting that the type of business, residence, or office will often dictate the type of equipment that cleaners use. For instance, cleaners who work in hospitals have to use special equipment, such as autoclaves, to sterilize surfaces.
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What is the work environment of a cleaner?
When you become a cleaner, you will usually have a specific area or building that your employer assigns you to clean. The work environment tends to vary depending on the type of business. For example, sometimes, cleaners who work in hospitals have to deal with noise and activity around them. However, cleaners who work in office buildings typically have a more relaxed work environment. In most cases, cleaners work when the business gets closed, which means that they get to work in a quiet and empty building. However, some businesses hire cleaners to work during business hours. This means that they will have to work around employees and customers.
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Who are your colleagues as a cleaner?
One of the people you'll be working with most as a cleaner is your supervisor. Your supervisor will assign you tasks and help you with any problems you have. You'll also be working with other cleaners. In some cases, you will be the only cleaner in the business, and in other cases, you will work with a team of cleaners. You should also expect to work with other types of cleaning staff, such as janitors.
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What is the work schedule of a cleaner?
The work schedule of a cleaner tends to vary depending on the business. In most cases, cleaners work when the business gets closed, which means that they typically work at night. However, some businesses hire cleaners to work during business hours. This means that work schedules vary depending on the hours of the business. As a cleaner, you should expect to work during weekends and holidays. You probably also have to work overtime, especially if the business is having a special event or is particularly busy. One of the biggest benefits of being a cleaner is that you get to choose your own hours. This means that you will work around your other commitments, such as school or childcare.
What is the career outlook for a cleaner?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for cleaners will grow by 6% by 2030. This is almost equal to the average growth rate for all occupations. The demand for cleaners is often driven by a number of factors, such as the growing population and the need to keep buildings clean and safe. Despite the positive outlook, competition for jobs is generally expected to be strong because many people are usually interested in these positions. As a result, cleaners who have experience and specialized training will have the best job prospects.
What are the advantages of working with Spherion as a cleaner?
Are you actively looking for a job or just checking what's out there? If so, Spherion is the answer. The Spherion team will help you with your search for employment by matching you with a cleaning job that fits your skills. As one of the leading staffing companies, Spherion has connections with a wide range of businesses. The Spherion team offers plenty of networking opportunities, so you will find the right office for your work style. Whether you prefer to work with a small family business or a major company, Spherion has options for you. Working via Spherion offers you a number of advantages, which include the following:
- Getting paid on a weekly basis
- Flexibility
- Having a contact person to fall back on and ask for help
- Accessing a range of jobs in your area
- Getting training opportunities for gaining more advanced cleaning skills
- Having a quick and seamless interviewing process
What education do you need as a cleaner?
There is no formal education required to become a cleaner. However, many cleaners have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some cleaners tend to have postsecondary training in custodial work or janitorial services. In addition, many cleaners receive on-the-job training to learn the specific cleaning methods and products used by the business. Some businesses usually require cleaners to have a valid driver's license and clean driving record.
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How about certification?
There are no specific certification requirements for cleaners. However, some businesses prefer to hire cleaners who have certification from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The OSHA 10-Hour General Industry certification is the most common type of certification required by businesses. This certification covers a range of topics, such as hazard communication, electrical safety, and fall protection. " target="_blank" title="Occupational Safety and Health Administration" rel="noopener noreferrer">Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The OSHA 10-Hour General Industry certification is the most common type of certification required by businesses. This certification covers a range of topics, such as hazard communication, electrical safety, and fall protection.
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Skills & competencies
One of the most important qualities that a cleaner must have is physical stamina. This is because cleaners are on their feet for long periods of time and do a lot of bending, stooping, and lifting. Secondly, cleaners need to be able to follow instructions carefully and pay attention to detail. You also need to be able to work independently and as part of a team. This is because cleaners often work alone, but you also need to be able to work well with others when it is necessary. Thirdly, cleaners need to be honest and trustworthy. This is because they often have access to people's homes and businesses when no one is around. Lastly, cleaners need to be able to keep a positive attitude even when they are doing repetitive and sometimes dirty work.
FAQs
Cleaners keep all types of properties clean, safe, and tidy. Check out a few frequently asked questions about this role to learn more about what to expect when working in this position.
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What's the difference between a cleaner and a janitor?
A janitor is responsible for cleaning and maintaining a commercial building, such as an office, retail store, or school. This means that janitors often work in larger spaces, perform light maintenance and repairs, and handle hazardous materials. This is one of the reasons why they often work on a full-time basis.
A cleaner, on the other hand, is typically responsible for cleaning smaller properties, such as small business buildings and homes. However, they also handle larger commercial buildings; however, they usually don’t have to worry about performing maintenance and repairs.
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What are some common cleaning products used by cleaners?
Some of the most common cleaning products used by cleaners are all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, and furniture polish. All-purpose cleaners work on a variety of surfaces, such as countertops, floors, and walls. Glass cleaners help to clean windows, mirrors, and other glass surfaces. Carpet cleaners help to remove stains and dirt from carpets. Furniture polish is typically used to clean and shine wood furniture.
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How do I apply for a job as a cleaner?
Applying for a job as a cleaner is easy with Spherion. Simply search for cleaner jobs on Spherion.com by job title and location. If you don’t see the perfect role, go ahead and submit an open application. Once you submit your contact information and resume through Spherion’s open application, a recruiter from the office closest to you will reach out with details about potential cleaner roles that fit your skill set and professional goals.