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How to Become a Janitor: Australian Careers in Hospitality

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What is a Janitor?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a Janitor?

A janitor cleans and maintains buildings so they stay safe, tidy, and welcoming for the people who use them.

Janitors work in schools, offices, hospitals, shopping centres, and public facilities. Each day they sweep, mop, and vacuum floors, clean restrooms, empty bins, and restock supplies. They also handle minor maintenance, such as changing light bulbs or fixing leaky taps.

The role suits people who enjoy hands-on work and take pride in their environment. A clean space is healthier and safer for staff, students, and visitors. Janitors are the people who make that happen.

No formal qualifications are needed to start. Most employers provide on-the-job training. A Certificate II in Cleaning Operations (CPP20322) at a TAFE or RTO can help you stand out. It also opens doors to specialist or supervisory roles.

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Career snapshots For Janitors

Janitors are a core part of Australia’s workforce, keeping offices, schools, hospitals, and public spaces clean and operational. Around 150,100 commercial cleaners are employed nationally, spread across all states and territories (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). New South Wales has the highest share at 28.6%, followed by Victoria at 23.4% and Queensland at 21.7%.

Most cleaners work part-time. The workforce is 62% part-time with a median age of 42 (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). The median full-time weekly earnings are $1,254, or $33 per hour (ABS Survey of Employee Earnings and Hours, May 2025). Annual salary for full-time roles averages around $58,000. The Cleaning Services Award (MA000022) sets a minimum of $25.85 per hour for Level 1 workers.

No formal qualifications are needed to enter the field. A Certificate II in Cleaning Operations (CPP20322) is the recognised entry credential. Demand is driven by growth in healthcare, commercial property, and hospitality.

What will I do?

Janitors keep buildings clean, safe, and ready for use. They work in schools, hospitals, offices, and public spaces. Each day they clean, do minor repairs, and run safety checks.

  • Sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming floors to keep all areas clean.
  • Cleaning restrooms and keeping them stocked with toilet paper and soap.
  • Emptying bins and sorting waste and recycling correctly.
  • Dusting and wiping surfaces, fixtures, and equipment.
  • Performing minor repairs such as changing light bulbs or fixing leaky taps.
  • Reporting safety hazards or maintenance issues to management.
  • Setting up and packing down spaces for events or meetings.
  • Following health and safety protocols when handling cleaning chemicals.

What skills do I need?

Janitors need a practical mix of physical and people skills. Attention to detail is key. A missed spot in a restroom, or an unmarked hazard, can affect everyone’s health and safety.

Time management matters because janitors work to strict schedules. Physical stamina is needed since the role involves lifting, bending, and standing for long stretches. A solid knowledge of cleaning products helps janitors pick the right approach for each task. Good communication skills help when reporting faults or working with a team.

No formal qualifications are required. However, a Certificate II in Cleaning Operations (CPP20322) covers chemical handling, equipment use, and safety protocols. This can make a candidate more competitive and support long-term career growth.

Skills/attributes

  • Attention to Detail
  • Time Management
  • Physical Stamina
  • Knowledge of Cleaning Products and Equipment
  • Basic Maintenance Skills
  • Communication Skills
  • Problem-Solving Skills
  • Teamwork
  • Safety Awareness
  • Adaptability
  • Customer Service Orientation
  • Ability to Follow Instructions

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About the author

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.