Housekeeper - Career Profile |
Career OverviewA housekeeper is responsible for the maintenance and cleanliness of the hospital or healthcare facility. This position requires a good eye for detail as well as an ability to follow both written and oral directly, complete work as directed, and follow all established procedures and protocols. Housekeepers often are required to keep very accurate logs and records and may be required to help in developing and evaluate cleaning routines and schedules.
A housekeeper should be able to work independently and without any direct supervision. They should be someone that takes pride in a job well done and that is able to work shift work, evening and weekend hours. Often housekeepers may be required to work mostly evening and weekend hours with a few full time employees available during the day.
Housekeeper may need to operate some equipment such as floor polishers and other large electrical appliances. A housekeeper may also be required to complete basic cosmetic repairs to walls, floors or even furniture. Some housekeepers specialize in various aspects of housekeeping.
Housekeepers should be able to speak English and should be able to understand directions from supervisors. They may be required to mix chemicals used in cleaning or may be required to work in very sensitive areas such as intensive care or surgical areas and will be required to adhere to all rules and regulations in these places.
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Career RequirementsMost housekeeper jobs have no requirements prior to employment other than a high school diploma or equivalency. Some hospitals or healthcare facilities may not require formal education if there is a history of working as a housekeeper in another facility or similar work environment.
Housekeepers may be required to attend some in-service or work experience training and may be required to pass tests on correct use of equipment or chemicals before being allowed to use the material or equipment.
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Job OutlookAccording to the United States Department of Labor housekeeping across all sectors has some of the most vacancies of all entry level positions. Hospitals or healthcare facilities employ a large number of full and part time housekeepers on a yearly basis.
With the increasing number of care facilities and hospitals the demand for housekeeper is expected to continue to grow at a steady rate for the next several years. Those currently in the field may retire or move into other jobs creating even more opportunities to enter the position.
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Career TrackA significant portion of the housekeeper jobs in hospitals or healthcare facilities are part-time positions so employees often choose to move into more permanent full-time positions with experience. In addition many housekeepers assume training, supervisory or even management positions as they increase their time working for the hospital or healthcare facility.
Some housekeepers may decide to open their own business and bid on contracts to clean various hospitals or healthcare facilities in the area.
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CompensationFull-time housekeeper usually earn between $18,000 and $25,000 per year, depending on their years of experience and their responsibilities within the hospital or healthcare facility. Housekeepers with supervisory roles earn more than those without. Part-time housekeepers are usually paid on an hourly wage of $6.25 to $8.00 per hour.
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