What does a Custodian do?

Custodians work to create a clean, orderly, and safe environment by performing a wide variety of cleaning and maintenance activities on buildings. They ultimately keep buildings clean, ranging from banks to schools and offices. While custodians mainly work inside, they also have duties that take place outside like sweeping walkways and mowing lawns.

Custodians must have a high school diploma or general education degree (GED). The best custodians are comfortable working independently, have repair and maintenance skills, and are service-oriented.

What responsibilities are common for Custodian jobs?
  • Maintain floors in a clean state by sweeping, scrubbing, mopping, and waxing them
  • Empty and clean trash receptacles and collect recycling
  • Clean, sanitize, and supply bathrooms
  • Clean and service custodial equipment as needed
  • Perform minor repairs on furniture, buildings, and equipment
  • Report any safety, sanitary, or fire hazards to the appropriate department
  • Lock and unlock windows, doors, and gates
  • Ensure grounds areas are clean and orderly
What are the typical qualifications for Custodian jobs?
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED) required
  • Previous custodial and grounds experience preferred
  • Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
  • Comfortable squatting, twisting, bending, and kneeling while using tools and performing maintenance tasks
  • Possess working knowledge of the methods, technique, and materials used in custodial work
  • Ability to climb ladders and work from heights
  • Familiar with operating, caring for, and storing custodial equipment and supplies
EducationBachelor's Degree
Work/Life Balance
3.5 ★
Total Pay--
Career Opportunity
3.2 ★
Avg. Experience2-4 years

How much does a Custodian make near United States?

Confident
$36,535 /yr
Total Pay
$35,116
 /yr

Base Pay

+
$1,419
 /yr

Additional Pay

$36,535

 / yr
$28K$48K
Most Likely Range
Possible Range
See More Insights

Custodian Career Path

Learn how to become a Custodian, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.

Custodian
$36,535/yr
Senior Custodian
$48,969/yr
Lead Custodian
$41,719/yr
Custodian

Years of Experience Distribution

0 - 1
18%
2 - 4
42%
5 - 7
1%
8+
39%
Not including years spent in education and/or training

Custodian Insights

Read what Custodian professionals have to say about their job experiences and view top companies for this career.
SJBP Public SchoolsSJBP Public Schools
Custodian
Nov 26, 2021

“I got to work extra games which means extra money and I took q break when I wanted to”

Clean Time
Lead Custodian
Apr 15, 2021

“Not much full time opportunity but perfect for those looking for solid consistent extra hours.”

BEST - For A Cleaner WorldBEST - For A Cleaner World
General Custodian
May 13, 2023

“Great management and the particular group I had met and worked with briefly were top notch.”

Ninja VanNinja Van
Branch Custodian
Jun 13, 2022

“It is a good thing my line manager was very understanding and we have compromised on how I will be able to get paid.”

AvedaAveda
Part Time Keyholder/Acting Manager
Jul 6, 2022

“The pay is decent but still don’t recommend working here at all so run away from this job”

Weis MarketsWeis Markets
Custodian
Jul 27, 2021

“Good wage and hours very short drive worked here before great store enjoyed working”

Kokomo-Howard County Public LibraryKokomo-Howard County Public Library
Custodian
Sep 8, 2022

“The way I was fired was completely unacceptable and unprofessional.”

Card FactoryCard Factory
Part Time Keyholder
Apr 9, 2023

“Could have been a really relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere and job.”

See More

Custodian Interviews

Frequently asked questions about the roles and responsibilities of a Custodian

When working as a Custodian, the most common skills you will need to perform your job and for career success are Windows, English Language, Buffing, Work Ethic, and Effective Communication.

The most similar professions to Custodian are:
  • Housekeeper
  • Laborer
  • Janitor
  • Warehouse Worker

The most common qualifications to become a Custodian include a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree and an average of 0 - 1 years of experience not including years spent in education and/or training.

Related Careers

Housekeeper
$35,388
25% skills overlap
Laborer
$38,679
No skills overlap
Janitor
$33,989
38% skills overlap
Warehouse Worker
$36,638
13% skills overlap

Custodian Jobs