First-Line Supervisors of Housekeeping and Janitorial Workers

People in this career direct and coordinate the daily activities of cleaning crews. They spend their time communicating with staff, guiding team members, and inspecting buildings to ensure quality standards are met. Supervisors are responsible for training new employees, coaching staff, and solving daily operational problems.

This role requires strong enterprising interests, as leaders must make decisions and build cohesive teams. Key skills include personnel management, coordination, active listening, and time management. Supervisors must be dependable, detail-oriented, and capable of handling stress while maintaining self-control. They rely on knowledge of customer service, administration, public safety, and human resources to keep facilities running smoothly.

To enter this field, candidates typically need a high school diploma. Most workers prepare through some on-the-job training or by gaining prior experience in cleaning roles. Relevant college majors that can lead to this career include building/construction finishing, management, and inspection.

While not always required, professional certifications can help candidates stand out. Examples include the Certified Building Operator credential, the Certified Laundry and Linen Manager designation, and the Environmental Sustainability Professional certification. Additionally, some states list licensing requirements for this line of work.

The median annual pay for these supervisors is $49,100. Earnings vary based on experience and location, with the lowest 10% of workers earning less than $35,520 and the highest 10% earning more than $76,430.

There are 178,760 people employed in this occupation. Employment is projected to grow by 3.2% from 2025 to 2035, which is as fast as the average for all jobs. This growth and normal turnover are expected to result in 30,800 job openings each year.