The demand for janitors and cleaners in Canada is expected to remain steady in the next few years, driven by the need for clean and safe working environments across various industries. Here’s an overview of the janitorial careers in Canada in 2025:
Job Outlook:
According to Employment and Social Development Canada, the employment outlook for janitors, caretakers, and related occupations is expected to grow at a moderate pace, with an expected increase of 5.3% from 2021 to 2025.
The largest growth is expected to be in the following industries:
Healthcare and social assistance (6.2% growth)
Retail trade (5.9% growth)
Accommodation and food services (5.7% growth)
In-Demand Specializations:
Green cleaning and sustainable practices are becoming increasingly important, making green janitorial services in demand.
High-touch surface disinfection and sanitation services are also in high demand due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Specialized cleaning services, such as forensic cleaning, crime scene cleaning, and biohazard cleanup, will continue to be needed.
Regional Variations:
British Columbia is expected to experience the highest growth rate, with an expected increase of 7.3% from 2021 to 2025.
Ontario is expected to experience a moderate growth rate of 5.6%.
Quebec is expected to experience a slower growth rate of 4.2%.
Key Skills:
Attention to detail and ability to work independently
Ability to lift heavy objects and work at heights (for those working in high-rise buildings)
Basic first aid and CPR training
Knowledge of green cleaning practices and products
Ability to use specialized cleaning equipment and technology
Certifications and Training:
The Canadian Institute of Cleaning Science (CICS) offers various certifications for janitorial professionals, including the Certified Janitorial Technician (CJT) designation.
The Canadian Sanitation Supply Association (CSSA) offers training programs for sanitation professionals.
Salary Range:
According to the Government of Canada’s Job Bank, the median hourly wage for janitors and caretakers in Canada is around $15-$20 per hour.
Experienced professionals can earn up to $25-$30 per hour or more as evident on Indeed:
Overall, while the job outlook may not be as strong as some other industries, there will still be a demand for skilled janitorial professionals in Canada. Those who stay up-to-date with industry developments, certifications, and training will have a competitive edge in this field.
Labour Market Insights: Janitorial Jobs in Ontario and Alberta
According to the latest labour market data, Ontario and Alberta are two provinces that stand out in terms of janitorial job opportunities. With large populations and diverse industries, both these regions have a high demand for janitors and cleaners.
Ontario
Growing Industries: In Ontario, job growth for janitorial services is primarily driven by expansion in the healthcare, retail, and education sectors. Schools and universities are placing a higher emphasis on cleanliness and sanitation, leading to increased job opportunities for janitorial staff.
Urban Centers: Major urban centers such as Toronto, Ottawa, and Hamilton are expected to see the highest demand, particularly in commercial real estate and healthcare facilities.
Training and Development: There is a growing focus on professional development and training options, with many employers offering opportunities for certification and advancement within the field.
Alberta
Economic Diversification: Alberta’s janitorial job market is influenced by its efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil and gas. This includes increased investment in healthcare, technology, and renewable energy sectors.
Commercial Growth: Cities like Calgary and Edmonton are witnessing commercial growth, leading to higher demand for janitorial services in office buildings, retail spaces, and public institutions.
Rural Opportunities: There is also a steady demand for janitorial services in rural and remote areas, particularly in schools, healthcare facilities, and municipal buildings.
Industry Trends: Trends in Alberta indicate a shift towards eco-friendly cleaning practices, with an increasing number of companies seeking green certifications and sustainable solutions to meet environmental regulations and consumer preferences.
Moreover, the demand for janitorial services is not limited to traditional working hours. Many offices and commercial spaces require cleaning staff outside of regular business hours, which allows for flexible work schedules for janitors. This can be especially beneficial for those looking for part-time or evening work.
In addition to traditional janitorial services, there is a growing demand for specialized cleaning services. These include carpet and upholstery cleaning, window washing, and floor maintenance. Many companies are willing to pay a premium for these specialized services to ensure their facilities are kept in top condition.
Overall, the demand for janitorial services companies is expected to continue rising as businesses and industries recognize the importance of maintaining clean and hygienic workplaces. This presents a great opportunity for those interested in pursuing a career in this field or starting their own cleaning business.
Opportunities in the Cleaning Industry in 2025
Emerging Technologies
Automation and Robotics: The integration of automation and robotics in cleaning processes is gaining significant traction in various industries. Businesses are increasingly adopting automated floor scrubbers, robotic vacuums, and even drones specifically designed for window cleaning tasks. These technological advancements not only enhance efficiency but also play a crucial role in reducing labor costs, making them a popular choice for companies looking to streamline their cleaning operations.
Smart Cleaning Solutions: IoT (Internet of Things) devices and smart sensors play a crucial role in modern facilities management by continuously monitoring cleaning requirements in real-time. This real-time monitoring enables precise analysis of usage patterns, facilitating efficient resource allocation and predictive maintenance scheduling to ensure uninterrupted service delivery and cost-effectiveness.
Impact of COVID-19
Increased Demand for Sanitization: The global COVID-19 pandemic has significantly raised awareness regarding the critical nature of cleanliness and sanitation practices. This newfound emphasis on hygiene has resulted in a surge in the need for janitorial services across various settings, including public spaces, transportation hubs, and workplaces worldwide. The increased demand for these services underscores the growing recognition of the vital role that janitorial professionals play in maintaining health and safety standards in our communities.
Enhanced Health and Safety Protocols: Enhanced health and safety protocols have become the norm in numerous facilities today, necessitating janitors to possess a comprehensive understanding of the most up-to-date disinfection techniques and products available in the market. This shift underscores the critical role janitors play in maintaining cleanliness and safeguarding the well-being of all individuals within these environments.
What Does It Take To Be a Successful Janitor?
First and foremost, attention to detail is crucial in building maintenance. A good janitor must have an eye for spotting dirt and areas that require extra attention. They must also be able to follow instructions and adhere to safety protocols while using cleaning chemicals and equipment.
Time management skills are crucial for janitor workers. With tight schedules and deadlines, it’s vital to prioritize tasks and complete them efficiently without compromising work quality. Communication skills are also valuable in this line of work, as workers may need to interact with colleagues or clients while on the job.
Physical stamina is another key factor in being a successful janitor. Cleaning often involves challenging activities such as lifting heavy equipment or standing for long periods of time. It’s important to have the strength and endurance to handle these tasks without risking injury.
In addition, janitors must have a strong attention to detail. This includes being able to identify and address even the smallest messes, as well as ensuring that all areas are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. A high level of organization is also necessary in order to keep track of cleaning schedules, supplies, and any special requests from clients.
On top of these skills, reliability is crucial in the role of a janitor. Clients and employers rely on their janitorial staff to keep their spaces clean and presentable at all times. This means showing up on time, completing tasks as assigned, and being accountable for any mistakes or issues that may arise.
Lastly, janitors should possess a positive attitude and strong work ethic. Cleaning can be a physically demanding and sometimes thankless job, but having a positive mindset will make the tasks more enjoyable and help maintain professionalism when faced with challenging situations.
John’s Final Take-away
Overall, the janitorial field offers stable and fulfilling career prospects for individuals dedicated to ongoing learning and honing their professional skills in various positions within janitorial services companies.
By proactively staying up to date on emerging industry trends and understanding regional nuances, janitorial professionals position themselves to effectively maneuver through the ever-evolving job landscape. This proactive approach allows them to harness the growing demand for janitorial jobs, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous career path in the dynamic field of janitorial services.