16 School Janitor Interview Questions and Answers

Updated on: August 4, 2023

How to Prepare for a School Janitor Interview?

Preparing for a School Janitor Interview requires a combination of specific skills and knowledge.

Here are some tips to help you prepare:

1. Research the school:
Familiarize yourself with the school’s website, vision, and values. Understand their cleaning standards and any specific requirements they may have.

2. Review common interview questions:
Practice answering common interview questions such as why you are interested in the role, your previous janitorial experience, and how you handle challenging situations.

3. Highlight relevant experience:
Prepare examples of your previous janitorial experience and emphasize any skills that are relevant to the position. This could include knowledge of cleaning products, maintenance tasks, or familiarity with safety procedures.

4. Dress appropriately:
Dress professionally for the interview, as this shows your seriousness and professionalism. Opt for neat and clean attire.

5. Showcase your attitude:
Demonstrate a positive and friendly attitude during the interview. School janitors often interact with students, teachers, and parents, so it’s important to convey a helpful and approachable demeanor.

6. Prepare questions:
Prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer. This shows your interest in the position and the school. Ask about the specific responsibilities, work hours, and any training or professional development opportunities.

7. Practice good communication:
Effective communication is crucial for a school janitor. Practice speaking clearly, using appropriate language, and listening attentively. Showcase your ability to follow instructions and work well within a team.

8. Be punctual:
Plan to arrive at the interview location a few minutes early to ensure you are not late. Being punctual demonstrates reliability and responsibility.

Remember, each interview is an opportunity to showcase your skills, experience, and commitment to maintaining a clean and safe environment for students and staff.

Here are some commonly asked interview questions and suggested answers to help you prepare:

16 Interview Questions and Answers School Janitor Position

1. Why do you want to work as a school janitor?
I have always valued the importance of maintaining a clean and safe learning environment for students. Working as a school janitor allows me to contribute to this goal while utilizing my skills in cleaning and maintenance. I enjoy being part of the educational community and supporting the well-being of students, teachers, and staff.

2. What experience do you have in custodial work?
I have [X] years of experience working as a custodian in various settings, including schools. During this time, I have gained expertise in performing routine cleaning tasks, handling maintenance issues, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. I am proficient in using various cleaning equipment and knowledgeable about the specific cleaning needs of educational facilities.

3. How do you handle unexpected situations or emergencies during your shift?
I understand that unexpected situations can arise at any time. In such cases, I remain calm and assess the situation to determine the appropriate course of action. I am familiar with emergency procedures, such as addressing spills or leaks promptly, securing areas if necessary, and notifying relevant staff members. I am trained to handle emergency equipment like fire extinguishers if needed.

4. How do you ensure proper sanitation and hygiene in school restrooms?
Sanitation and hygiene in school restrooms are of utmost importance. I follow a strict cleaning schedule to ensure regular and thorough cleaning of restroom facilities. This involves cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, restocking supplies, and promptly addressing any repairs or maintenance issues. I am also mindful of privacy and respect when entering restrooms during working hours.

5. How do you prioritize your tasks when there are multiple cleaning responsibilities?
Prioritizing tasks is essential to maintain a clean and functional environment. I create a daily cleaning plan that takes into account the specific needs and time constraints of each area. I focus on high-traffic areas and areas that require immediate attention, while also ensuring that routine tasks are completed regularly. Flexibility and efficient time management are key in juggling multiple cleaning responsibilities.

6. How do you prioritize your cleaning tasks in a busy school setting?
Prioritizing tasks is crucial in a school setting. I typically start by addressing immediate cleaning needs such as spills or safety hazards. Then, I focus on high-traffic areas like hallways and student restrooms. Finally, I work on less urgent tasks such as office areas or specialized cleaning projects.

7. How do you ensure compliance with health and safety regulations?
I am well-versed in OSHA guidelines and other relevant health and safety regulations. I meticulously follow cleaning protocols, use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), and ensure proper handling and disposal of cleaning chemicals to minimize any risks or hazards.

8. How do you handle emergency situations, such as a water leak or a spill requiring immediate attention?
In an emergency situation, my first priority is to assess the extent of the issue and take appropriate steps to prevent further damage or risks. This may involve quickly locating shut-off valves, notifying the appropriate staff members, and using appropriate equipment to contain or clean up the spill.

9. How do you handle requests or complaints from teachers, staff, or students?
I believe effective communication is key in such situations. I listen attentively to understand the issue, empathize with their concerns, and take prompt action to address them. By being approachable, responsive, and maintaining a professional demeanor, I aim to resolve issues to everyone’s satisfaction.

10. How would you prioritize your cleaning tasks?
As a school janitor, I would prioritize cleaning tasks based on their urgency and importance. I would start with areas that require immediate attention, such as restrooms, hallways, and entrances. Then, I would move on to classrooms, staff areas, and common areas like the cafeteria or gymnasium.

11. How do you ensure a clean and safe environment for students and staff?
I prioritize cleanliness and safety by following established protocols and procedures. This includes regularly disinfecting surfaces, properly disposing of waste, and ensuring that cleaning supplies are used and stored correctly. I am also vigilant in identifying and reporting any potential safety hazards that may require maintenance or repairs.

12. How do you handle challenging cleaning tasks or difficult-to-clean surfaces?
I approach challenging cleaning tasks with patience and persistence. I am familiar with a wide range of cleaning products and techniques to tackle different surfaces and stains. If needed, I research and consult with colleagues or industry resources to find the most effective solutions.

13. How do you handle a situation where there is an immediate cleaning need, but you are already occupied with another task?
In such a situation, I would assess the urgency of the immediate cleaning need. If it poses a safety risk or affects a large area, I would prioritize it and communicate with my supervisor or relevant staff members to seek assistance or reorganize the tasks at hand.

14. How do you maintain effective communication with school staff and administrators?
Communication is crucial in any role, and as a school janitor, I understand the importance of clear and open communication. I actively listen to the concerns or requests of staff and administrators, and I respond promptly to address their needs. By maintaining a positive and respectful attitude, I strive to build strong working relationships with the school community.

15. How do you handle situations where you encounter confidential or sensitive information during your cleaning duties?
Confidentiality is paramount in a school environment. If I come across any confidential or sensitive information during my cleaning duties, I would respect the privacy of the individuals involved and handle the information discreetly. I would notify the appropriate school staff or administration if necessary, ensuring that privacy and confidentiality are maintained at all times.

16. Can you describe a time when you went above and beyond your regular cleaning duties to ensure the satisfaction of students, staff, or parents?
In my previous role as a school janitor, there was an occasion when an important event was scheduled to take place in the gymnasium. I noticed that some of the gym equipment was in need of repair. Going beyond my regular duties, I took the initiative to fix the equipment before the event, ensuring it was in proper working order. This proactive approach helped ensure the satisfaction of both the staff organizing the event and the participants.

Remember, these are just sample answers. It’s essential to personalize your responses based on your own experiences and qualifications. Good luck with your interview!