When you’re applying for jobs, there are certain skills that can improve your chances of getting hired for maintenance and janitorial work. Most janitorial jobs don’t require a formal education, and you typically learn on the job. Building maintenance work typically requires a high school diploma, but you also get on-the-job training. However, the more skills and experience you have to offer a potential employer, the better your chances of getting the job.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts average job growth, about 6 percent, over the next several years in the areas of janitorial and building cleaning and general maintenance and repair. The bureau says that the healthcare industry especially will grow, along with the need for these kinds of workers to clean and maintain their medical offices and hospital buildings.
We’ve put together a list of skills employers seek in janitorial and maintenance work. Skills will vary based on the job for which you’re applying, so also review our list of skills listed by job and type of skill.
Administrative
Janitorial and maintenance work is not only about cleaning. Someone has to organize what work needs to be done and when and where to do it. Cleaning supplies must be tracked, schedules set and records kept.
- Inventory
- Monetary Exchange
- Ordering Supplies
- Permits
- Planning
- Prioritizing
- Record Keeping
- Scheduling
Advanced
These advanced skills can give you an edge in getting work at companies that need more than basic cleaning. As part of a building maintenance team, you’ll be the go-to person to work on minor repairs to structures and special maintenance projects, keeping the building whole and up to date.
- Carpentry
- Masonry
- Finishing/Refinishing Floors
- Painting
- Plumbing
- Roofing
- Welding
Basic Cleaning Skills
In addition to this list of basic cleaning skills, let employers know if you have special knowledge or experience with cleaning supplies. Some employers prefer to use “green” cleaning solutions, for example.
- Buffing
- Chemical Use
- Cleaning
- Dusting
- Mopping
- Polishing Furniture
- Safety
- Sanitation
- Scrubbing
- Sweeping
- Washing Floors
- Washing Windows
- Waxing
Interpersonal Skills
Many janitorial and maintenance jobs are part of a team of workers, and you’ll all need to get along. In some cases, you’ll also interact directly with a company’s customers, especially if you’re on the job during business hours. And if you have aspirations of rising up the ranks to a supervisory position, great interpersonal skills will help you get there.
- Communication
- Customer Relations
- Following Instructions
- Interpersonal Skills
- Service
- Supervising
- Teamwork
