You could start by doing an intermediate apprenticeship in cleaning and support services.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, for an intermediate apprenticeship
Window cleaner
Window cleaners work on domestic and commercial premises, cleaning windows, doors and other glass surfaces.
Average salary (a year)
£16,000 Starter
to£23,000 Experienced
Typical hours (a week)
38 to 40 variable
You could work
as a contractor / self-employed managing your own hours
How to become a window cleaner
You can get into this job through:
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
- specialist training with a professional body
Apprenticeship
Direct application
You could apply directly to become a window cleaner with a company, buy an existing round or set up your own business. You don't need any formal qualifications to do this.
Other routes
You could work as a window cleaner on tall buildings like office blocks, if you've completed training in rope access work or operating a mobile platform.
More information
Career tips
Employers will be interested in your practical skills, ability to work at height, and your awareness of health and safety regulations and good practice.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Federation of Window Cleaners for professional development training and to make industry contacts.
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- the ability to use your initiative
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- sensitivity and understanding
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- ambition and a desire to succeed
- excellent verbal communication skills
- customer service skills
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Restrictions and requirements
You'll need to:
- be able to cope with working at height
- have a good level of fitness
You may need a driving licence and your own vehicle, especially if you're self-employed.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
Your day-to-day tasks may include:
- mixing cleaning chemicals and detergents
- using ladder
- using water-fed poles
- cleaning windows on high buildings using cradles or ropes
- keeping a record of payment or completing customer reports
- safely storing and transporting equipment
Working environment
Your working environment may be at height and outdoors in all weathers.
Career path and progression
You could work for contract cleaners or specialist window cleaning firms. With experience, you may be able to progress to become a supervisor or manager.
You may start your own business, working alone or employing staff.
Training opportunities
Apprenticeships In England
Cleaning and Support Apprentice
- Wage : £150.00 - £187.50 Weekly
- Location: Gateshead NE11 0JQ
Waste Services (Refuse & Recycling) Apprentice
- Wage : £9,646.46 Annually
- Location: Redcar TS10 1RT
Courses In England
Certificate in Cleaning Principles
- Provider: Vocational Skills Solutions Limited
- Start date: 01 June 2019
- Location: Bury
Level 2 Certificate in Cleaning Knowledge and Skills
- Provider: Burton and South Derbyshire College
- Start date: 01 August 2019
- Location: Burton on Trent
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