If you’re looking for an entry-level job with a decent income in Canada, consider exploring opportunities in the cleaning industry, which offers competitive salaries and career growth potential. As of 2021, the Canadian cleaning industry was valued at over USD 1.32 billion, with projections indicating a growth to USD 1.65 billion by 2027. This expansion is driven by the constant demand for cleaning services across residential complexes, industrial facilities, healthcare centers, hotels, and more.
In this guide, we will provide an in-depth overview of the cleaning industry in Canada, outline some of the highest-paying positions, and explain the qualifications and responsibilities associated with each role. Whether you’re a new entrant to the workforce or looking for a change in career, cleaning jobs can be a viable option to consider.
Who is a Cleaner?
A cleaner is responsible for maintaining a clean and sanitary environment in various settings, such as offices, residences, hotels, schools, hospitals, factories, and more. Their duties include cleaning floors, dusting surfaces, sanitizing restrooms, and managing waste. Cleaners play a crucial role in ensuring that the spaces they maintain are hygienic, organized, and safe for use.
While many cleaning jobs are considered entry-level, they provide a pathway for career growth, especially in sectors like healthcare and industrial cleaning, where specialized certifications are required. Cleaners can find employment through direct recruitment by companies, referrals, or by registering on job listing websites. Using job boards is often recommended as it provides access to updated job listings, allowing candidates to choose roles with the most competitive salaries and benefits.
Job Responsibilities of Cleaners
Although the responsibilities of cleaners may vary depending on the specific industry and employer, the core duties remain similar across different environments. For example, a cleaner working in a healthcare facility may have different protocols compared to one in a corporate office. Nonetheless, here are some of the general responsibilities that cleaners are expected to perform:
- Sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming floors
- Dusting and wiping down surfaces
- Collecting and disposing of trash properly
- Cleaning and sanitizing restrooms
- Cleaning windows, mirrors, and glass surfaces
- Performing routine inspections and reporting maintenance needs
- Replenishing cleaning supplies and managing stockrooms
- Performing minor repairs as needed
- Adhering to all health and safety regulations
- Working as part of a team to ensure thorough and efficient cleaning
List of High-Paying Cleaning Jobs in Canada
1. Industrial Cleaners
Industrial cleaners work in complex environments such as manufacturing facilities, chemical plants, and food processing factories. Their role involves using heavy-duty cleaning equipment and specialized chemicals to ensure the facility remains free from contaminants. Due to the nature of the work, industrial cleaners often require a Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) certification and other safety training.
- Average Salary: $63,831 per year
- Job Requirements: High school diploma or GED, COSHH certification, experience in handling hazardous materials, and knowledge of commercial-grade cleaning equipment.
- Typical Duties: Deep cleaning of industrial machinery, removing tough stains, and ensuring that all cleaning tasks meet safety and contamination standards.
2. Office Cleaners
Office cleaners are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and orderliness of office spaces. Their duties include sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, dusting, and polishing office furniture. While the job does not require specialized certifications, office cleaners are often trained by employers to handle specific cleaning tools.
- Average Salary: $40,350 per year
- Job Requirements: High school diploma is preferred but not mandatory. Some companies may provide on-the-job training for specific cleaning equipment.
- Typical Duties: Cleaning desks, vacuuming carpets, emptying trash bins, sanitizing restrooms, and ensuring that the office environment remains welcoming and presentable.
3. Healthcare Facility Cleaners
Healthcare facility cleaners work in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics, where maintaining a sterile environment is critical. Their job involves using specialized cleaning agents and adhering to strict hygiene standards to prevent infections and cross-contamination.
- Average Salary: $39,881 per year
- Job Requirements: Medical Cleaning Certification (MCC), Certified Healthcare Environmental Services Professional (CHESP), or Certified Surgical Cleaning Technician (T-CSCT) credentials are preferred.
- Typical Duties: Disinfecting patient rooms, cleaning operating rooms, managing hazardous waste, and ensuring that all surfaces meet infection control standards.
4. Housekeepers
Housekeepers, also known as room cleaners or maids, are responsible for cleaning and organizing homes, hotels, and other establishments. They may work on a full-time or part-time basis, and some live-in housekeepers may be required to reside with their employers.
- Average Salary: $35,100 per year
- Job Requirements: High school diploma is optional. Housekeepers must have good organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Typical Duties: Sweeping, mopping, dusting, making beds, doing laundry, and sometimes assisting with meal preparation and grocery shopping.
5. Wash Bay Attendants
Wash Bay Attendants are responsible for cleaning vehicles in car washes, garages, or truck depots. This role involves cleaning the exterior and interior of vehicles, performing maintenance tasks, and ensuring that the work area is kept tidy.
- Average Salary: $40,052 per year
- Job Requirements: High school diploma or GED. Basic knowledge of vehicle parts, driving skills, and good customer service abilities are essential.
- Typical Duties: Washing and detailing vehicles, performing basic maintenance, interacting with customers, and keeping the cleaning facility in order.
Steps to Secure a High-Paying Cleaning Job in Canada
- Research the Job Market: Identify the industries with high demand for cleaning services, such as healthcare, industrial settings, and hospitality. Use reputable job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor to search for cleaning jobs with competitive salaries.
- Update Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant skills such as attention to detail, physical stamina, and familiarity with cleaning equipment. Mention any certifications like the COSHH or Medical Cleaning Certification (MCC) if applicable.
- Get Certified: If you’re targeting specialized roles like healthcare or industrial cleaning, consider pursuing certifications that will set you apart from other candidates.
- Apply Through Various Channels: Apply directly on company websites, use job boards, or register with recruitment agencies that specialize in placing candidates in cleaning roles.
- Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to discuss your previous experience, work ethic, and ability to handle physically demanding tasks. Demonstrating a strong understanding of safety and hygiene standards can be a bonus.
The demand for cleaners in Canada spans various industries, offering lucrative job opportunities for those who are physically fit, detail-oriented, and willing to take on essential cleaning responsibilities. Whether you choose to work in healthcare, industrial settings, or residential homes, the cleaning industry provides a solid foundation for building a stable and rewarding career.
By understanding the specific requirements and responsibilities of each role and obtaining the necessary training and certifications, you can enhance your prospects and secure a high-paying cleaning job in Canada. Start exploring these opportunities today and take the first step toward a fulfilling career in the cleaning industry!