The position of a janitor in a child care center is important to assure the safety and health of the children and staff in the building. Child care centers that are not properly cleaned can facilitate the spread of communicable diseases, making the work of a janitor in a child care center essential to the success of the business and the well-being of the children.

Job Duties

The duties of a janitor in a child care center are similar to other janitorial positions. Janitors generally work to clean up after the children, and often the staff, have left the center for the day. Janitors take out trash, clean floors and windows, and may perform simple maintenance tasks. Janitors generally have an assigned list of duties each day that they are responsible for completing. Janitors are often responsible for identifying needed supplies and completing orders for them. Janitors also will note and report repairs that need to be made in the facility.

Job Requirements

Many janitorial positions will require applicants to have a high school diploma or GED. Applicants for positions in child care centers will often be required to undergo a criminal background investigation and drug screening. The duties of a janitor are generally learned on the job, but any related experience or education is helpful. Many high schools and technical schools have classes and certifications for janitorial workers that teach basic cleaning and building maintenance skills.

Job Earnings and Benefits

Janitorial positions are generally not well paid due to being entry-level positions with minimal education or experience requirements. According the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2008, the average hourly wage for janitors and cleaners was $10.31. Many child care centers do not offer extensive benefits packages to their employees. Janitors may be able to work out flexible schedules, however, as their work is generally completed outside of normal business hours.

Job Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects janitorial positions as a whole to grow slower than average for the period from 2008 through 2018. The BLS does, however, expect job openings for janitors and related workers to remain strong due to staff turnover, and notes that job prospects should be good. The growing need for child care will help to provide more job openings for janitors and other workers in this field.

Career Advancement

Janitors in a child care center may have limited room for career advancement with their current employer due to small staff size. However, experienced janitors can move up to supervisory positions at other facilities or for other companies. Janitors with a strong work record can also try to find employment at public schools and universities, hospitals, and with other employers that commonly offer a more rewarding compensation package to service employees, including benefits.