Question 1

What is the difference between a janitor and a cleaner?

Accepted Answer

While the terms are often used interchangeably, a janitor typically performs a broader range of duties including general cleaning, minor maintenance, security checks and building management tasks. Under the Cleaning Services Award 2020, both roles are classified based on their specific duties and skill level.

Question 2

What award covers janitors in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Most janitor positions are covered by the Cleaning Services Award 2020 (MA000022). This award applies to employees performing cleaning and related services in various facilities including offices, schools, hospitals and commercial buildings. Always verify which award applies to your specific workplace.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a janitor?

Accepted Answer

Under the Cleaning Services Award, janitors are typically classified at Level 2 or Level 3 depending on their duties. Level 2 covers general cleaning duties with some basic maintenance, while Level 3 includes more complex tasks, minor repairs and supervisory elements. See our Cleaning Services Award pay rates guide for current rates.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a janitor job description?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract suitable candidates and sets clear expectations. You can reference the applicable award rate or use phrases like 'Award rates plus penalties' or 'Competitive hourly rate based on experience.' Check the current Cleaning Services Award rates for guidance.

Question 5

What qualifications do janitors need?

Accepted Answer

Most janitor positions do not require formal qualifications, though experience in cleaning and basic maintenance is valued. Some workplaces prefer candidates with a Certificate II or III in Cleaning Operations. Training in safe chemical handling, manual handling and workplace safety is beneficial.

Question 6

Do janitors need any certificates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, janitors typically need a valid Working with Children Check if working in schools, and a National Police Check for hospitals or sensitive facilities. Manual handling certification and chemical handling training are often required. First Aid certification may be desirable for some positions.

Question 7

What experience should I look for in a janitor?

Accepted Answer

For entry-level positions, basic cleaning experience and reliability are sufficient. For experienced roles, look for previous janitorial or facilities maintenance experience, knowledge of cleaning equipment and chemicals, minor repair skills and proven ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Question 8

Can I hire janitors as trainees?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many businesses successfully hire trainee janitors who learn on the job or undertake Certificate II or III in Cleaning Operations. Trainees must be supervised and provided with proper training in safety procedures, equipment use and chemical handling. This pathway helps develop skilled staff.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent janitors?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your facility's needs. Permanent staff provide consistency and familiarity with your building, while casuals offer flexibility for additional coverage or special projects. Many facilities use a mix — permanent janitors for regular shifts and casuals for extra cleaning or covering leave. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to janitors?

Accepted Answer

Under the Cleaning Services Award, penalty rates apply for: Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, and overtime. Many janitors work outside standard hours including evenings and weekends, so understanding penalty rates is crucial for payroll accuracy. Casual employees receive a 25% loading instead of leave entitlements. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for janitors?

Accepted Answer

Under the Cleaning Services Award, the minimum engagement for casual employees is typically 2 hours per shift. Part-time employees also have minimum shift requirements. This ensures employees receive reasonable compensation for attending work. Check the award for specific requirements.

Question 12

What should I include in a janitor employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type (casual/part-time/full-time), hourly rate or salary, applicable award, reporting structure, main duties, work location, shift patterns including evenings and weekends if applicable, uniform requirements and safety equipment provision. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to janitors?

Accepted Answer

Under the Cleaning Services Award, rosters must be provided at least 7 days in advance. Changes within this period require employee agreement unless due to unforeseen circumstances. Using rostering software helps support compliance and gives staff visibility of their upcoming shifts, particularly important for janitors who may work irregular hours.

Question 14

Can I require janitors to work night shifts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but night shift requirements should be clearly communicated in the job description and during recruitment. Under the award, employees are entitled to penalty rates for work performed during unsociable hours. Many facilities schedule janitors outside business hours to minimise disruption. Be clear about shift expectations during hiring.

Question 15

What breaks are janitors entitled to?

Accepted Answer

Under the Cleaning Services Award, employees working more than 5 hours are entitled to an unpaid meal break. Paid rest breaks also apply based on shift length. Breaks should be taken at appropriate intervals during the shift. Use break planning tools to support compliance while maintaining cleaning coverage.

Question 16

How do I manage janitor coverage for multiple buildings?

Accepted Answer

Plan your roster to ensure adequate coverage across all locations. Consider travel time between sites if janitors service multiple buildings. Use rostering software to track staff locations, assign site-specific tasks and ensure all facilities receive appropriate cleaning attention.

Janitor job description