Do I need experience for facilities work?

No. Most entry-level cleaning roles require no prior experience. Basic reliability and physical capability are the main requirements.

What hours do facilities jobs typically offer?

Hours vary widely. Many cleaning jobs are evening or night shifts (after businesses close). Some are early morning. Weekend work is also common. This flexibility works well for people with other commitments.

Is facilities work physically demanding?

Yes. Expect to be on your feet for the full shift, walk significant distances, and perform tasks like mopping, vacuuming, and lifting supplies. Wear comfortable, supportive shoes.

What does a custodian do?

Custodians (janitors, building cleaners) maintain buildings by cleaning floors, restrooms, and common areas; emptying trash; and making minor repairs. Shifts are often evening or early morning. No prior experience is typically required. BLS reports median pay of $17.27/hr.

Facilities and Cleaning Careers: Pay, Growth, and Roles

BLS reports 2.45 million janitors/cleaners; $17.27/hr median, 351,000 openings/year

Roles go by many names: janitor, custodian, porter, building cleaner

Flexible hours including evening and weekend shifts

Entry-level roles with paths to supervisor ($18-24/hr) and facilities manager ($45K+)

Facilities and cleaning roles offer unique advantages:

Strong demand: The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports 2.45 million janitors and building cleaners employed. BLS projects 351,300 job openings per year through 2034. Every business needs clean facilities.
Good pay: BLS median is $17.27/hr (May 2024). Entry-level $14-17/hr, specialized roles $17-22/hr.
Flexible schedules: Many evening, night, and weekend shifts. Work often happens before or after business hours.
Low barrier: No formal education required. Most learn on the job.
Independent work: Often work with minimal supervision.

A staffing app offers facilities roles including cleaners and custodians.

See all staffing-app roles →

Janitors and building cleaners (also called custodians or porters) maintain buildings by sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, cleaning restrooms, washing windows, disinfecting surfaces, emptying trash, and making minor repairs. Some roles operate floor care equipment or handle snow removal.

Typical requirements: Ability to lift 35-50+ lbs, stand and walk for full shifts, follow safety procedures. Some employers prefer a high school diploma; many do not require it.

Where to find jobs: Schools, universities, hospitals, offices, retail stores, and warehouses. Large employers hire through staffing agencies and job boards. Some offer training programs for advancement.

Entry Level:

Role	Pay	Requirements
Cleaner	$14-18/hr	Physical capability
Custodian	$14-17/hr	Reliability
Porter	$13-16/hr	Basic cleaning skills

Specialized:

Role	Pay	Requirements
Industrial Cleaner	$16-20/hr	Training
Floor Care Specialist	$17-22/hr	Equipment training

Leadership:

Role	Pay	Requirements
Cleaning Supervisor	$18-24/hr	Experience
Facilities Coordinator	$45K-55K/year	Management skills

Estimate your earnings: Pay Calculator

Facilities employers prioritize:

1. Reliability

Showing up consistently is essential. Facilities work often happens before or after business hours.

2. Attention to Detail

Noticing areas that need cleaning and doing thorough work.

3. Safety Awareness

Proper chemical handling and safety procedures.

4. Independence

Working effectively without constant supervision.

5. Physical Capability

Ability to stand, walk, and perform physical tasks for full shifts.

Stand out by:

Arriving early and ready to work
Going beyond the minimum requirements
Learning proper cleaning techniques
Reporting maintenance issues proactively

Facilities work offers clear growth paths:

Short-term (6-12 months):

Cleaner → Lead Cleaner

Medium-term (1-2 years):

Lead Cleaner → Cleaning Supervisor

Long-term (3+ years):

Supervisor → Facilities Manager → Director of Operations

Earning potential:

Facilities Managers: $45,000-65,000/year
Directors: $70,000-100,000+/year

Keys to advancement:

Develop expertise in specialized cleaning (floor care, industrial)
Get certifications in OSHA safety
Learn building maintenance basics
Demonstrate leadership potential

See Career Paths for detailed progression strategies.

Key Takeaways

Why Facilities Work?

Put Your Knowledge Into Action

What Does a Janitor or Custodian Do?

Common Facilities Roles

What Employers Look For

Career Advancement

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Guides

Keep Learning

Popular Searches