Top 13 Custodian Interview Questions and Answers

Updated on: October 26, 2021
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An interview for a Custodian position is one of the most intimidating ways of making a first impression. 

If you make an excellent first impression on prospective employers, the chances can become higher than that of a more qualified candidate, but this is true!

Researching the company’s profile and background is the way to start. Find out who will interview you even if you require to call the company to ask.

Practice questions that you may be asked so that you can give yourself a heads up before you appear for an interview.

One question that is tricky and difficult to answer during an interview is the classic “what is your biggest weakness?”

This question can throw us off, which can be an advantage for a “prepared” competition! So preparation is necessary.

Interview questions depend on the nature of the job and the requirements of the employer.

For a custodian interview, the following are some likely interview questions with answers:

Sample Custodian Interview Questions With Answers

1. What are the essential job tasks of a custodian?

The purpose of a custodian position is to maintain a neat, clean, and sanitary environment. Specific duties include: sweeping and mopping the floor, dusting furniture and equipment, washing the toilets, clearing snow off pathways, lawn cleaning, minor plumbing and electrical maintenance tasks, and the like.

2. Why do you feel that you are a better candidate for this position?

I have in-depth knowledge of standard cleaning procedures and chemicals. Since I have been working as a custodian for many years, I have good experience in handling cleaning activities by following safe practices. I can also work under limited supervision.

3. Are you comfortable working night shifts? What do you do to make sure that work during the night is not affected by the natural sleeping cycle?

Yes, I am comfortable working the night shift. While night shifts are not easy for most people, I prefer the night shift as I am used to staying awake during the late hours. I make sure that I get at least eight hours of sleep during the daytime so that I do not feel tired during work hours.

4. How often do you believe that cleaning implements should be cleaned and maintained?

I believe that cleaning implements need to be washed and sanitized every day. That is because clean equipment and tools mean clean surfaces. If our cleaning implements are dirty, we cannot possibly make sure that our work is done properly.

5. Does the rule “custodians’ work should be seen, not custodians” bother you on a personal level? Why? Why not?

It does not bother me one bit. I work not because I want to be “seen”. I work because I want to contribute to the success of a company, and my contribution is evident in my work.

6. What have you done previously that was above and beyond your regular duty?

Last holiday season the hotel I worked at was short of staff. The supervisor requested the staff to do extra shifts, and I worked 14-16 hours a day for two weeks in order to support the management during the busy season.

7. Why should we hire you?

You should hire me because I bring 6+ years of custodial experience and my previous employers will verify that I am a very dependable person. I can read, comprehend, and follow written instructions and also possess in-depth knowledge of the OSHA guidelines applicable to janitorial and custodial tasks.

8. What would you do if a client uses abusive language?

I will not react. I continue my work quietly and wind it up quickly. It is offensive, and I do feel bad inside, but I know how to control my temper and to respond in such situations only makes them worse.

9. Are you comfortable with working on a flexible schedule?

Yes! I have always worked on flexible schedules and am comfortable with doing the same again.

10. Can you give me a rundown of your current daily routine?

Report at 6 AM. Finish cleaning the busy areas before 8. Clean and refresh the washrooms all day long, dust the furniture, mop the floor, polish handles, clean grounds, and walkways. Clean all equipment and place it in proper shelves. Lock everything before leaving.

11. What do you do if you have just cleaned an area and some kids come running in with muddy feet?

I manage my work schedule in an organized and planned manner and usually do not work in busy places. I do the cleaning when the chances of someone passing through that area are minimal.

Whenever I am at work, I display a sign saying ‘wet floor’ or ‘cleaning in progress. Still, if somebody does come in and ruins the clean floor, I do it again because cleanliness has to be maintained, it’s part of my job.

12. Have you ever worked with chemical cleaners?

Yes, I am familiar with various cleaning chemicals. However, I use them very cautiously since many of these are toxic.

13. What do you feel is the most rewarding aspect of this job?

I derive immense satisfaction from this job. The sense of completion that comes at the end of the day is worth all the hard work.