Question 1

What is the difference between a window cleaner and a general cleaner?

Accepted Answer

Window cleaners specialize in cleaning glass surfaces including windows, glass doors, mirrors and facades. While general cleaners maintain overall cleanliness, window cleaners use specialized equipment and techniques for glass cleaning. Under the Cleaning Services Award 2020, window cleaners are typically classified based on whether they perform high-rise or ground-level work.

Question 2

What award covers window cleaners in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Window cleaner positions are covered by the Cleaning Services Award 2020 (MA000022). This award applies to employees performing commercial and residential cleaning services, including specialized window cleaning. Classification and pay rates depend on skill level and whether high-rise work is involved.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a window cleaner?

Accepted Answer

Under the Cleaning Services Award, window cleaners are typically classified at Level 2 for standard ground-level and low-rise work, or Level 3 for specialized high-rise window cleaning requiring working at heights certification. See our Cleaning Services Award pay rates guide for current rates.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a window cleaner job description?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 5

What qualifications do window cleaners need?

Accepted Answer

For ground-level window cleaning, formal qualifications are not always required, though a Certificate II or III in Cleaning Operations is beneficial. For high-rise window cleaning, a Working at Heights certificate (RIIWHS204E or equivalent) is mandatory. Experience and on-the-job training are highly valued in this trade.

Question 6

Do window cleaners need any certificates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, window cleaners typically need: Working at Heights certificate for elevated work, White Card (construction induction) for commercial sites, driver licence for travel between sites and First Aid certificate (preferred). High-rise window cleaners require specialized rope access or elevated work platform certificates.

Question 7

What experience should I look for in a window cleaner?

Accepted Answer

For entry-level positions, look for physical fitness, reliability and comfort with heights. For experienced roles, seek previous window cleaning experience, knowledge of cleaning chemicals and techniques, ability to work independently and proven safety record. High-rise window cleaning requires specialized rope access or EWP experience.

Question 8

Can I hire trainee window cleaners?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many cleaning businesses successfully hire trainee window cleaners for ground-level and low-rise work. Trainees should work under supervision and complete required safety training. This is an effective way to build your window cleaning team while providing quality training.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent window cleaners?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your business demand. Many window cleaning businesses use casual staff for fluctuating workloads and seasonal peaks, while permanent employees provide reliability for regular contracts. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends for more information.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to window cleaners?

Accepted Answer

Under the Cleaning Services Award, penalty rates apply for: Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays and overtime. Many window cleaning jobs occur during weekends or after business hours, so understanding penalty rates is crucial for payroll accuracy. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for window cleaners?

Accepted Answer

Under the Cleaning Services Award, the minimum engagement for casual employees is typically 2-3 hours per shift. This ensures employees receive reasonable compensation for travel and setup time. Check the award for specific minimum engagement requirements.

Question 12

What should I include in a window cleaner employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type (casual/part-time/full-time), hourly rate, applicable award, work locations (if multiple sites), main duties, reporting structure, vehicle requirements if applicable, safety requirements and any required certifications. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

How far in advance must I provide rosters to window cleaners?

Accepted Answer

Under the Cleaning Services Award, rosters should be provided reasonably in advance. Many window cleaning jobs are scheduled around client availability, so flexibility is important. Using rostering software helps manage multiple job sites and ensure staff have visibility of their schedules.

Question 14

Can I require window cleaners to work weekends?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many commercial window cleaning jobs are scheduled for weekends when buildings are less occupied. Weekend work requirements should be clearly communicated in the job description and during recruitment. Under the award, employees are entitled to penalty rates for weekend work.

Question 15

What breaks are window cleaners entitled to?

Accepted Answer

Under the Cleaning Services Award, employees are entitled to breaks based on shift length. Paid rest breaks and unpaid meal breaks apply according to hours worked. Use break planning tools to support compliance while managing job schedules.

Question 16

How do I manage travel time between window cleaning jobs?

Accepted Answer

Under the award, travel time between work sites during the working day is generally paid time. Factor this into job scheduling and costing. Use rostering software to efficiently plan routes and allocate adequate travel time between jobs.

Window cleaner job description