Cleaner Job Description (Responsibilities, Skills, Duties & Sample Template)

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If you’ve searched “Cleaner job description template,” you’ve probably come across the same thing over and over again:

Bullet points. Basic duties. Zero personality.

It goes something like this:
 “Clean rooms. Take out trash. Follow safety procedures. Apply here.”

But here’s the problem: a job post like that doesn’t help you attract someone reliable, detail-oriented, or proud of their work. It just ticks a box—and invites dozens of low-effort, low-fit applications.

The truth is, most cleaner job descriptions fail because they don’t communicate three crucial things:

  • What the job actually looks like

  • What kind of person would thrive in it

  • And why it’s worth applying for

In today’s market, great candidates are selective. They want to know:
 Who will I work with? Is this company respectful? Will I be valued here?

If your post doesn’t answer those questions—or worse, reads like a legal document—those top candidates scroll right past you.

But the good news? You don’t need to be a professional copywriter to write a great job description. You just need the right format and a little intention.

👉 Before we dive in, check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/  
 This breaks down exactly why most job posts fall flat—and gives you a reusable framework that works for any role.

In this article, we’ll show you how to write a cleaner job description that actually works. You’ll get:

  • A plain-English definition of the role

  • Two great job description templates (one for experienced cleaners, one for entry-level)

  • A breakdown of why they work

  • An example of a bad job post (so you don’t make the same mistakes)

  • Bonus tips, AI caution, and a copy-paste template you can customize

Let’s make your next job post your best recruiting tool.

Don’t let bad hires slow you down.

WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free. 

What Does a Cleaner Actually Do?

A cleaner is more than someone who just “keeps things tidy.” They’re the people who create a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for everyone else to do their jobs—whether that’s in an office, school, hospital, warehouse, or hotel.

Cleaners take pride in the details. They sanitize workspaces, maintain order, and ensure hygiene standards are met—not just for compliance, but because they care. A good cleaner notices what others overlook, works independently, and stays consistent even when no one is watching.

It’s not glamorous work—but it’s essential. And when done well, it says something about your company:
 We care. We notice. We show up.

So when you’re hiring for a cleaner, you’re not just filling a task-based role. You’re bringing in someone who directly affects the health, safety, and morale of your space.

Two Great Cleaner Job Description Templates

We’ll provide two tailored job description options:

1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.

2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.

🧹 Experienced Cleaner Job Description Template

Job Title: Commercial Cleaner Needed at SparkWorks Facilities (Full-Time)
 Location: Columbus, OH
 Salary: $17–$20/hr based on experience
 Schedule: Mon–Fri, 6PM–2AM | Full-Time | On-Site

🎥 Meet Your Supervisor (Watch this short 1-min video)
 (Insert Loom or YouTube link here)

Who We Are

SparkWorks is a commercial cleaning company serving offices, warehouses, and clinics across Ohio. Our mission is simple: create safe, spotless, and professional environments for our clients so they can focus on their work. We’ve been in business for over 15 years and are proud of the consistency and care our team brings to every job.

What You’ll Be Doing

You’ll work independently and sometimes in small teams to:

  • Clean and sanitize restrooms, breakrooms, and office spaces

  • Empty trash and recycling bins

  • Sweep, mop, vacuum, and dust all floor types

  • Refill supplies (soap, paper towels, toilet paper)

  • Follow health & safety standards with consistency

  • Lock up buildings securely at the end of each shift

What We’re Looking For

✅ At least 1 year of experience in commercial or janitorial cleaning
 ✅ Comfortable working evening shifts and being on your feet
 ✅ Reliable, detail-oriented, and able to work without micromanagement
 ✅ Able to lift up to 30 lbs and operate basic cleaning equipment
 ✅ Respectful of client property and professional in communication

Perks & Benefits

  • Health & dental insurance after 60 days

  • Paid time off (up to 40 hours/year)

  • Night-shift differential pay

  • Opportunities for advancement into team lead roles

  • Company-provided uniforms and supplies

Why This Role Matters

At SparkWorks, cleaners aren’t just checked-in—they’re part of the team. We believe clean spaces support great work, and we recognize the people who make that happen. If you take pride in staying organized, finishing strong, and keeping things clean—you’ll thrive here.

How to Apply

We use WorkScreen to make sure the hiring process is fair, fast, and skill-based.
 Click the link below to complete your short application and skills evaluation.
 👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]

We review every application and will keep you updated every step of the way.

🧼 Cleaner Job Description Template (Entry-Level / Willing to Train)

Job Title: Entry-Level Cleaner Wanted at FreshStart Cleaning Co. – No Experience Needed
 Location: San Antonio, TX
 Salary: $15–$17/hr (plus training bonus after 30 days)
 Schedule: Tue–Sat, 7AM–3PM | Full-Time | On-Site

🎥 Hear From One of Our Team Members (1-min video)
 (Insert Loom or YouTube link here)

Who We Are

FreshStart Cleaning Co. provides home and small business cleaning services throughout the San Antonio area. We’re a small, tight-knit team that values dependability, a positive attitude, and treating every client’s space with care and respect. You don’t need cleaning experience to join us—we’ll teach you everything you need to know.

What You’ll Be Doing

You’ll work alongside a senior cleaner to:

  • Clean kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas (dusting, vacuuming, sanitizing)

  • Restock supplies and organize cleaning materials

  • Learn how to use tools like vacuums, mops, and eco-friendly cleaning products

  • Follow simple checklists and quality control routines

  • Show up on time, ask questions, and take pride in your work

What We’re Looking For

✅ A positive, can-do attitude
 ✅ Willingness to learn and take direction
 ✅ Reliable transportation and ability to show up on time
 ✅ Able to lift up to 20 lbs and be on your feet for most of the day
 ✅ Respectful and professional with clients and team members

💡 No experience? No problem. If you’re organized, dependable, and eager to learn—we want to meet you.

Perks & Benefits

  • Paid hands-on training during your first 2 weeks

  • $200 bonus after your first 30 days of consistent work

  • Company t-shirts, gear, and supplies provided

  • Opportunities to grow into a full-time or team lead role

  • Flexible scheduling options after your first 90 days

Why This Role Matters

Our clients trust us to create a clean, safe space for their families or teams. That trust starts with hiring people who care. At FreshStart, we invest in our people early—because when you’re supported, trained, and respected, you do your best work. And we notice.

How to Apply

We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—a hiring platform that helps us evaluate applicants fairly, based on skills and mindset—not just resumes.
 Click the link below to get started:
 👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]

You’ll go through a quick, structured evaluation that helps us get to know you better. We’ll keep you updated every step of the way.

Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.

WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.

Why These Cleaner Job Descriptions Actually Work

Let’s break down what makes each of these job posts more than just “okay”—they’re clear, human, and designed to attract the right people.

✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Specific and Contextual

  • Instead of just saying “Cleaner”, each title adds a meaningful detail:

    • “Commercial Cleaner Needed at SparkWorks Facilities”

    • “Entry-Level Cleaner Wanted at FreshStart Cleaning Co. – No Experience Needed”

These titles aren’t just job labels—they clarify who it’s for, what kind of cleaning, and even signal the company’s attitude (welcoming, approachable, respectful). That builds immediate relevance.

✅ 2. The Introductions Set the Tone

  • Both job descriptions start with a quick summary that gives context, not just a company pitch.

  • The inclusion of a short video from a hiring manager or team member adds a personal touch and sets them apart visually from 99% of other job posts.

This helps the candidate feel like they’re applying to a real team with real people—not a faceless system.

✅ 3. Responsibilities Are Clear and Relatable

  • These aren’t vague tasks like “maintain cleanliness.”

  • They spell out real actions: “sanitize breakrooms,” “follow safety procedures,” “refill supplies.”

And they’re written in natural language that makes the job feel doable—not overwhelming.

✅ 4. The Requirements Show Flexibility (Especially in the Entry-Level Post)

  • The experienced version is direct: 1+ year required

  • The entry-level version makes it clear that attitude matters more than credentials

This signals that the company is open to potential—not just past experience—and encourages more qualified but underrepresented candidates to apply.

✅ 5. Salary, Schedule, and Perks Are Transparent

  • Both posts include:

    • Exact pay ranges

    • Clear work hours

    • Benefits (PTO, insurance, advancement, training bonuses)

This saves candidates from guessing and builds trust. It also filters out applicants who aren’t a good fit—saving time for everyone.

✅ 6. The “Why This Role Matters” Section Adds Purpose

  • Instead of just listing tasks, both posts explain why the work is valuable:

    • “Clean spaces support great work.”

    • “Our clients trust us to create safe spaces for their families or teams.”

That emotional connection elevates the post and gives pride to the position.

✅ 7. The Application Process Feels Respectful

  • Both posts use WorkScreen to communicate:

    • “We evaluate fairly”

    • “We won’t ghost you”

    • “You’ll be updated at each step”

This is a huge differentiator. Most candidates expect to be ignored. Saying the opposite—and delivering—builds loyalty even before the first interview.

Example of a Bad Cleaner Job Description (And Why It Fails)

Job Title: Cleaner
 Location: [City, State]
 Job Type: Full-Time

Job Summary:
 We are seeking a cleaner to maintain cleanliness and hygiene at our facility. The ideal candidate will be responsible for ensuring areas are clean and orderly.

Responsibilities:

  • Clean assigned areas

  • Follow cleaning schedules

  • Use cleaning equipment properly

  • Ensure safety standards are followed

Requirements:

  • High school diploma

  • Previous cleaning experience preferred

  • Ability to work independently

  • Good communication skills

How to Apply:
 Send your CV to hr@examplecompany.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

🚫 Why This Job Description Doesn’t Work

Let’s break down why this post falls flat—and why great candidates will likely skip it.

❌ 1. The Job Title Is Too Generic

Just saying “Cleaner” doesn’t communicate anything about the type of cleaning (commercial? residential?), the environment (office? school?), or the company.

❌ 2. The Summary Is Cold and Vague

“Maintain cleanliness and hygiene” sounds like it was copied from a textbook. There’s no sense of personality, team, or purpose. It feels like a chore list—not an opportunity.

❌ 3. Responsibilities Are Bare Minimum

There’s no detail. No human tone. No sign of what the day-to-day actually looks like. It tells the reader what to do, but not why it matters or how it contributes to the company.

❌ 4. No Salary or Schedule Mentioned

This creates friction. Candidates don’t want to guess how much they’ll be paid or whether the job fits their availability. A lack of transparency signals a lack of respect—and turns serious applicants away.

❌ 5. Zero Insight into Culture or Team

There’s nothing about what the company values, how the team works, or what kind of person would thrive there. It reads like a checkbox, not an invitation to join something meaningful.

❌ 6. The Application Process Is Cold

“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” sends the message: “Don’t expect to hear from us.”
 It’s impersonal, outdated, and discouraging—especially for hourly workers who value timely responses.

This is the kind of post that attracts desperate or low-fit applicants—while completely missing the high-quality, committed candidates you actually want.

Bonus Tips to Make Your Cleaner Job Post Stand Out

Once you’ve got the basics right, here are a few small upgrades that can make a big difference. These tips build trust, show respect, and help your post rise above the sea of generic listings.

🛡️ 1. Add a Candidate Privacy & Scam Warning

Let applicants know you take their safety seriously. You can include something like:

“We take the security and privacy of all job applicants very seriously. We will never ask for payment, banking details, or personal financial information at any stage of the hiring process.”

It’s a small detail—but it reassures applicants that they’re dealing with a legitimate company that respects them.

🌴 2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time

Even for hourly roles, candidates want to know they won’t be overworked without breaks. Something simple like this works:

“Enjoy up to 5 paid personal days per year, plus flexible scheduling options after your first 90 days.”

This signals that you value work-life balance, even in entry-level roles.

📚 3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities

Especially for entry-level applicants, it helps to know that they won’t stay stuck at the bottom. Even a brief mention like this builds excitement:

“We offer hands-on training, weekly check-ins, and opportunities to grow into team lead roles.”

If you promote from within or offer additional certifications, mention it!

📹 4. Add a Loom or YouTube Video

A 30–60 second video from the hiring manager, a teammate, or even a walkthrough of the job site adds a huge boost in trust. It gives candidates a feel for the environment and helps your post stand out instantly.

Even a casual video recorded on a phone with decent lighting works fine—it’s the human element that counts.

Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4

These small touches help you connect with thoughtful candidates who are looking for signals of trust and stability. Add even one or two of these, and your post will outperform most others in your category.

Should You Use AI to Write Job Descriptions?

AI tools like ChatGPT or others can seem like an easy way to create job descriptions fast—but relying on AI without context or customization can backfire. Here’s why:

❌ Why Using AI Blindly Leads to Boring, Generic Posts:

  • Lack of Personality: AI can only work with what it’s given. If you don’t inject a human tone and specific details, your job description will come out flat, vague, and uninspiring.

  • Missed Opportunity to Build Trust: AI doesn’t know your company culture or values unless you tell it. A generic post won’t communicate why someone should join your team.

  • Inaccurate or Outdated Language: AI sometimes uses outdated or ineffective job post structures that don’t resonate with today’s candidates. This can turn off top talent who are looking for something more engaging and authentic.

✅ How to Use AI the Right Way:

AI can be a helpful tool—but only when you provide it with the right input. Here’s how to use AI effectively to craft job descriptions that attract great candidates:

Step 1: Give AI Context

Before asking AI to create a job post, make sure you input:

  • Company Info: What does your company do? What’s its mission?

  • Job Role: What are the key responsibilities and expectations for this job?

  • Tone: What kind of language or tone do you want? (e.g., casual, professional, energetic)

  • Cultural Fit: Describe your company culture and the type of candidate that would thrive there (e.g., “We value teamwork, communication, and reliability”).

Step 2: Use an Example Prompt

Here’s a sample prompt to feed AI:

“Help me write a job description for our company, [Insert Company Name]. We’re hiring a [Insert Job Title] to assist with [Insert Key Responsibilities]. Our company culture is [Describe Culture], and we want candidates who are [Describe Ideal Traits]. We offer [Insert Benefits] and here’s our salary range: [Insert Salary]. The hiring process includes [Insert Process]—and we use WorkScreen for skill-based evaluations to make hiring more fair and efficient. Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes] ”

Step 3: Refine AI’s Output

Once AI generates your description, refine it:

  • Make sure it sounds human, not robotic.

  • Add company-specific details (a quote from a manager, video links, or fun facts).

  • Adjust for clarity and engagement—your candidates should be able to read it and feel excited, not just informed.

AI is a tool, not a replacement for your voice. Use it to help polish your message—but never as the sole creator of your job posts.

Smart Hiring Starts Here

WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results

Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description?

We get it—sometimes you just need something fast. You’ve read through this guide and understand what a strong job post looks like. But you also want a solid starting point that you can copy, paste, and tailor to your company in just a few minutes.

That’s what this is.

✏️ Important Reminder:
 Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
 This is a foundation, not a final draft.
 Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.

In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.

Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.

  • Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
  • Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.

✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)

Job Title: Cleaner Needed at [Company Name]
 Location: [City, State]
 Salary: $[X]–$[Y]/hr
 Schedule: [Days of the week], [Shift Time] | [Full-Time/Part-Time]

🎥 Meet Your Hiring Manager (1-min Video)
 (Insert Loom or YouTube link here)

Who We Are

At [Company Name], we believe in creating safe, clean, and welcoming spaces for everyone. Whether we’re cleaning offices, hotels, or facilities, we focus on quality and reliability. Join our team and see how we value hard work, consistency, and a positive attitude.

What You’ll Be Doing

You’ll work closely with your team to:

  • Clean office spaces, breakrooms, and restrooms
  • Restock supplies like soap, toilet paper, and paper towels
  • Vacuum, mop, and dust all types of surfaces
  • Follow health & safety protocols consistently
  • Ensure every space you touch is tidy and organized

What We’re Looking For

  • Previous cleaning experience preferred (but not required)
  • Reliable and detail-oriented
  • Willingness to learn and follow cleaning procedures
  • Ability to lift [X] lbs and work independently
  • Respectful and professional in communication

Perks & Benefits

  • Health & dental insurance after [X] days
  • Paid time off (PTO) after [X] months
  • Paid training and certification opportunities
  • Opportunities for career growth and advancement

Why This Role Is a Great Fit

As a cleaner at [Company Name], you’re essential to our daily operations. You’re the reason our team and clients have a clean, safe space to work and thrive. You’re not just cleaning—you’re making an impact.

How to Apply

We respect your time, and that’s why we use WorkScreen to make the hiring process faster and more fair.
 Click the link below to complete your short application and skill assessment.
 👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
 We’ll keep you updated every step of the way.

✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format

Job Title: Cleaner
 Location: [City, State]
 Salary: $[X]–$[Y]/hr
 Schedule: [Days], [Shift Time]

🎥 Meet Your Hiring Manager (1-min Video)
 (Insert Loom or YouTube link here)

Job Brief

We are looking for a dependable cleaner to join our team. This position is responsible for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene across various areas in our [company facility]. If you’re reliable, dedicated, and take pride in your work, we want to meet you.

Responsibilities

  • Clean and sanitize workspaces, bathrooms, and breakrooms
  • Sweep, mop, vacuum, and dust
  • Restock supplies as needed
  • Ensure safety and hygiene standards are met
  • Report maintenance issues to management

Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Experience in cleaning preferred but not necessary
  • Ability to work independently and manage time effectively
  • Good communication skills and attention to detail
  • Ability to lift and move up to [X] lbs

Perks & Benefits

  • Health & dental insurance after [X] days
  • Paid time off (PTO) after [X] months
  • Paid training and certification opportunities
  • Opportunities for career growth and advancement

How to Apply

To apply, simply click the link below to complete your quick WorkScreen evaluation.
 👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]

We look forward to seeing your application!

Ready to Take the Next Step? Let WorkScreen.io Streamline Your Hiring

You’ve crafted a great job description that’ll attract the right candidates—now, let’s make sure you’re getting the best results from it.

WorkScreen.io helps you identify top talent quickly and easily, ensuring you’re focused on candidates who are truly a good fit for the role. Here’s how we can help:

✅ Quickly Identify Your Most Promising Candidates

WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.

✅ Easily Administer One-Click Skill Tests

With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.

✅ Eliminate Low-Effort Applicants

WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.

✅ Save Time and Make Smarter Hiring Decisions

By using data and performance-based insights, WorkScreen allows you to focus on candidates who will add value to your team. No more guesswork—just smarter, faster, and more efficient hiring.

👉 Sign up for WorkScreen.io today

Ready to start hiring the right way? and see how our platform can help you find top talent and streamline your hiring process!

Frequently Asked Questions - Cleaner Job Description

When hiring a cleaner, the key skills to look for include:

  • Attention to Detail: Cleaners need to spot areas that need cleaning or maintenance that others might overlook. Precision in cleaning is essential.
  • Time Management: A good cleaner should be able to manage their time efficiently to ensure they meet deadlines and cover all tasks without rushing.
  • Physical Stamina: Cleaning requires physical labor, so stamina is important to handle repetitive tasks like sweeping, lifting, and bending for long periods.
  • Dependability: Since cleaners often work independently or with minimal supervision, reliability is critical. You want someone who shows up on time and completes their tasks with consistency.
  • Communication Skills: Cleaners should be able to communicate clearly with management and other staff about cleaning needs or issues.
  • Knowledge of Cleaning Products & Equipment: Experience with using different cleaning products and machinery (vacuum cleaners, mops, etc.) is a plus, as well as the ability to follow safety standards.

The salary of a cleaner can vary based on experience, location, and the type of cleaning job. On average:

  • Entry-Level Cleaner: $12–$16/hr
  • Experienced Cleaner: $16–$20/hr
  • Specialized Cleaning Roles (e.g., medical or industrial cleaners): $18–$25/hr or more

These ranges can fluctuate depending on the region, industry (e.g., healthcare or hospitality), and the scope of the work. Some companies also offer bonuses, benefits, and paid time off, which can impact the overall compensation package.

Training a new cleaner is critical to ensure they meet your company’s standards. Here’s how to approach it:

  • Provide Clear Guidelines: Outline your cleaning processes, safety standards, and expectations. This helps avoid any confusion on the job.
  • Hands-On Training: It’s best to show them how to clean different areas and operate equipment, rather than just giving instructions. Shadowing a seasoned team member can be beneficial.
  • Introduce Safety Protocols: Make sure they understand the safety standards for handling chemicals, cleaning machinery, and working in certain environments (like healthcare or food service).
  • Ongoing Feedback: Regularly check in to ensure they understand their role and provide feedback to ensure they’re following the correct procedures.

Retention of cleaning staff can be a challenge, especially with high turnover rates in this industry. To keep cleaners engaged and reduce turnover:

  • Offer Competitive Pay: Transparent and fair wages, along with benefits, go a long way in retaining workers.

  • Create Opportunities for Advancement: Promote from within or offer career development programs. Even small growth opportunities like training in new skills can motivate employees.

  • Provide a Positive Work Environment: Respect and trust are key—ensure your cleaners are treated with dignity, and that their feedback is valued.

  • Recognition and Appreciation: Regularly acknowledging a cleaner’s hard work and offering small rewards can make a significant impact on morale.

 

Make Your Next Great Hire With WorkScreen

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Author’s Details

Mike K.

Mike is an expert in hiring with a passion for building high-performing teams that deliver results. He specializes in streamlining recruitment processes, making it easy for businesses to identify and secure top talent. Dedicated to innovation and efficiency, Mike leverages his expertise to empower organizations to hire with confidence and drive sustainable growth.

Hire Easy. Hire Right. Hire Fast.

Stop wasting time on unqualified candidates. WorkScreen.io streamlines your hiring process, helping you identify top talent quickly and confidently. With automated evaluations , applicant rankings and 1-click skill tests, you’ll save time, avoid bad hires, and build a team that delivers results.

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