Janitors perform a variety of cleaning and maintenance duties in a building or office. The phrase "janitorial services" typically means that you work for a janitorial company that provides outsourced services to client companies. Your employer is the operator of the janitorial business. Duties include cleaning, taking out trash, mopping floors and restrooms, sweeping and managing supply inventories. You also perform basic maintenance, such as changing light bulbs and fixing door knobs.
Background Requirements and Pay
No formal education is required, but you can become certified through the Building Service Contractors Association International to improve your qualifications. On-the-job training is standard, with emphasis on safe use of cleaning equipment. Interpersonal abilities, mechanical inclination, physical strength and good time management are useful skills. Median pay for janitors and building cleaners was $10.73 per hour as of 2012, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
