What does a Housekeeper do?
Housekeepers perform general cleaning tasks, such as mopping floors, cleaning kitchens and bathrooms, making beds, vacuuming and dusting. They work either in commercial establishments or private homes. Besides cleaning, they pick up rubbish and move it to designated areas in the home or facility. They also take care of finishes, antiques and fine fabrics.
The more heavy-duty version of a Housekeeper is a Janitor, who keeps hotels, retail stores, hospitals, schools, office buildings and other places sanitary, clean and in good condition.
Housekeeper skills and qualifications
A Housekeeper needs a range of skills and qualifications to perform their duties effectively. A successful Housekeeper candidate will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications that typically include:
- Ability to read and follow signs and written instructions
- Mature, responsible and friendly behaviour
- Ability to use hand or lightweight cleaning tools
- Physical fitness to lift heavy objects and work while standing
- Ability to adhere to strict hygiene and cleanliness standards set by management
- Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills
- Ability to operate cleaning equipment and stand for long hours
- Physical strength to lift heavy objects or furniture
Housekeeper experience requirements
Many employers prefer to hire candidates with previous experience in housekeeping. Candidates can gain housekeeping experience by working in commercial establishments, hospitals or private homes. Candidates for an entry-level hotel housekeeping position must complete on-the-job training, which usually includes working alongside an experienced Housekeeper. Candidates with culinary or cooking experience is a plus.
Housekeeping education and training requirements
The housekeeping role doesn’t require formal education. However, candidates need to have basic knowledge of maths and English. Candidates with a GCSE certificate or its equivalent can apply. Anyone with a basic education can perform most housekeeping duties. Some employers may require candidates to obtain industry-recognised certifications, such as the Level 2 Certificate in Hospitality and Catering Principles (Housekeeping), Level 2 Certificate in Hospitality Industry Skills (Housekeeping) and Level 3 Award in Hospitality Supervision and Leadership Principles.
Housekeeper salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary of a Housekeeper in the UK is £9.54 per hour. Their actual salary varies depending on factors, including their employer, work experience, geographical location and the scope of their job.
Job description samples for similar positions
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