Resume Writing Tips for Custodian

Introduction

Custodians play a critical role in maintaining clean, safe, and orderly environments in schools, offices, hospitals, and more. Despite its essential nature, custodian roles are often overlooked, making the job hunt tougher without an effective resume. A strong custodian resume not only highlights your cleaning abilities but also captures your attention to detail, problem-solving, and dedication to workplace safety. This blog dives deep into practical tips for writing an ATS-optimized, compelling custodian resume that gets noticed by employers and sets you apart from other applicants.

1. Resume Summary

The resume summary is your elevator pitch. It should concisely showcase who you are as a custodian, your years of experience, and your top strengths. Use action words and focus on achievements or qualities that make you a reliable and efficient custodian.

Example: Experienced custodian with over 5 years ensuring clean, safe, and well-maintained facilities in educational and healthcare environments. Skilled in using cleaning technologies, managing supplies, and adhering to safety protocols to reduce workplace hazards by 30%.

2. Key Skills

Including a dedicated Skills section helps applicant tracking systems (ATS) find your resume and also gives employers a quick scan of your qualifications. Focus on both hard and soft skills relevant to custodial work.

• Cleaning and Sanitation
• Floor Care (buffing, waxing, stripping)
• Use of Cleaning Equipment (floor scrubbers, vacuum cleaners)
• Safety and Compliance Knowledge
• Inventory Management
• Time Management
• Problem Solving
• Attention to Detail
• Teamwork and Communication
• Hazardous Waste Handling

3. Achievements

Employers look beyond your job duties — they want to see measurable achievements that indicate your impact and dedication. Replace generic responsibilities with specific accomplishments to demonstrate your value clearly.

For example, instead of saying "Cleaned floors," say "Improved floor cleanliness by implementing a new buffing schedule, reducing slip-and-fall incidents by 25% in one year."

4. Tailor to Job

Each custodian position can differ in focus—some require deep knowledge of industrial cleaning equipment; others need special attention to hazardous materials. Carefully read the job description and tailor your resume keywords and skills accordingly. This improves your chances of passing ATS filters and resonates with hiring managers.

5. Tools

• Floor Buffers and Polishers
• Industrial Vacuum Cleaners
• Carpet Extractors
• Pressure Washers
• Auto-Scrubbers
• Cleaning Chemicals and Disinfectants
• Janitorial Carts and Supplies
• Safety Gear (gloves, masks, eye protection)
• Waste Management Systems
• Inventory Tracking Software (e.g., Microsoft Excel)

6. Metrics

• Reduced workplace accidents by X% through rigorous cleaning and safety checks
• Managed cleaning schedules for X square feet of facility area
• Decreased cleaning supply costs by X% via efficient inventory management
• Improved response time to maintenance requests by X%
• Maintained X% compliance with OSHA safety standards

7. Education

• High School Diploma or GED (most custodian roles require at least this level)
• Certifications such as OSHA Safety Training, Hazardous Materials Handling, or Custodial Technician Training

8. Format

• Use a clean, professional template with clearly defined sections and bullet points
• Stick to standard fonts like Arial, Calibri, or Times New Roman sized 10-12 points for readability

9. Concise

Keep your resume to one or two pages maximum. Use concise language, avoid long paragraphs, and prioritize recent, relevant experience.

10. Bonus

• Include soft skills such as reliability, punctuality, and teamwork to highlight your professionalism
• Add a short cover letter emphasizing your dedication to custodial excellence and willingness to adapt and learn new technologies or procedures

Examples

• Enhanced cleaning efficiency by reorganizing supply closets, reducing cleaning preparation time by 15% weekly.
• Trained 3 new custodians on safety protocols leading to zero safety incidents over 6 months.

Conclusion

Writing a custodian resume that captures your professionalism, reliability, and technical skills is crucial in standing out to employers. By showcasing your measurable impacts, leadership capabilities, and analytical approach to maintaining facility safety and cleanliness, you demonstrate that you are more than just a cleaner—you are a vital contributor to a safe and productive environment. Use these tips to craft a resume that positions you for success and career growth in custodial roles.