How to Become a Janitor or Custodial Staff
Janitor Jobs Hiring Process
Looking to join the workforce as a janitor or custodial staff member in 2025? Whether you’re entering the job market for the first time or searching for a more stable role, janitorial and custodial jobs offer consistent employment opportunities across schools, hospitals, offices, and commercial facilities. The hiring process for cleaning and maintenance positions is straightforward, but understanding each step—from identifying employers to passing background checks and interviews—can significantly improve your success rate. This complete guide walks you through the custodial staff application process, pre-employment screenings, and how to secure a janitor job offer fast.
Identifying Employers (Schools, Offices, Facilities)
The first step in your custodial job search is knowing where to look. Janitors and custodial staff are needed in:
Public and private schools
Government buildings and city maintenance departments
Hospitals and healthcare clinics
Office buildings and commercial towers
Warehouse and distribution centers
Cleaning service contractors and facilities vendors
Search locally through school district websites or city government portals. Facility management companies often subcontract custodial work for multiple sites.
Applying Through Job Boards and Vendor Portals
Once you’ve identified where you’d like to work, submit your application through:
Major job boards like Indeed or Snagajob
Staffing agency portals that recruit for facilities
Vendor company websites for positions at client sites
Union job listings, if applying to public school districts or hospitals
Make sure to tailor your resume to highlight experience with cleaning tasks, use of maintenance equipment, and reliability. Include any OSHA or workplace safety training.
Common Pre-Hire Screenings and Background Checks
Custodial jobs often involve access to restricted areas, so employers typically run background checks. Be prepared for:
Criminal background screening
Drug testing
Verification of employment history
In some cases, physical fitness assessments
Make sure your references and prior job contacts are accurate and up-to-date.
Demonstrating Safety and Reliability in Interviews
During interviews, hiring managers will look for signs that you are dependable, punctual, and aware of safety protocols. Expect questions such as:
“How do you handle hazardous materials or spills?”
“Have you worked on a cleaning schedule or shift rotation before?”
“What would you do if you found a personal item while cleaning?”
Highlight your ability to work independently, follow instructions, and complete tasks thoroughly.
Submitting Applications on School and State Portals
Understanding Shift Schedules and Probation Periods
Custodial roles often include non-standard hours—overnight shifts, weekends, or rotating schedules. Be upfront about your availability and ask:
What are typical shift times?
How is overtime handled?
Is there a probation period?
Most janitorial jobs include a 60- to 90-day probation period during which your performance and attendance will be closely monitored.
Tips for a Smooth First Week on the Job
Starting strong can set the tone for your employment. Here’s how to make a good impression:
Arrive early and dressed appropriately for physical work
Ask questions during training on chemicals or machinery
Take notes on cleaning checklists and shift procedures
Build rapport with team leads and other custodial staff
Follow safety procedures exactly as instructed
FAQ
Most janitor jobs require a high school diploma or GED, but many are open to candidates without formal education if they can demonstrate reliability and physical capability.
Not always, but some employers prefer or require OSHA safety certification or hazardous material handling training.
Wages range from $13 to $20 per hour depending on location, experience, and employer type.
Many positions are full-time, especially in schools, hospitals, or large facilities, but part-time shifts and contract work are also common.
Yes. With experience, many custodians become team leads or move into facility management roles.
