How to become a janitors and cleaner, except maids and housekeeping cleaners

Keep buildings in clean and orderly condition. Perform heavy cleaning duties, such as cleaning floors, shampooing rugs, washing walls and glass, and removing rubbish. Duties may include tending furnace and boiler, performing routine maintenance activities, notifying management of need for repairs, and cleaning snow or debris from sidewalk.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree..Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

What janitors and cleaners, except maids and housekeeping cleaners do

• Service, clean, or supply restrooms.
• Clean building floors by sweeping, mopping, scrubbing, or vacuuming.
• Follow procedures for the use of chemical cleaners and power equipment to prevent damage to floors and fixtures.
• Clean windows, glass partitions, or mirrors, using soapy water or other cleaners, sponges, or squeegees.
• Dust furniture, walls, machines, or equipment.
• Clean and polish furniture and fixtures.

Skills that matter most

• Active Listening
• Speaking
• Critical Thinking
• Monitoring
• Active Learning
• Reading Comprehension
• Writing
• Learning Strategies

Is janitors and cleaner, except maids and housekeeping cleaners a good career?

On the numbers, this job is close to the average across occupations. Median pay is 28% below the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• Massachusetts $45,580
• Washington $45,520
• New York $41,640
• California $41,090
• Vermont $40,910

Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.