Many construction companies rely on outside individual contractors to clean up their sites, and these companies are always looking for new employees to help them out.
That means that with a little preparation, the right approach, and the right gear, you can break into this lucrative industry, and blow your first construction cleaning job out of the water!
Commercial cleaning can be a great side gig, or, you can turn it into a full-time career. Below we’ve put together six tips to help you ace your first construction cleaning job:
1. If this is your very first time looking for a job in this field, remember that there are many different options! You can find construction cleaning jobs through commercial construction, fire repairs, or in private homes after the tenants have done renovations.
Be on the lookout for possibilities, and don’t be afraid to approach project managers to ask to be put on their team.
2. Before you apply to work on a project, research the going rate of construction cleanup in your area. That way, you will know what your work is worth, and you will be able to negotiate a good rate for yourself.
Many contractors work with a rate that is based on the square footage of the site. You will look more professional if you come in with the right rate!
3. Before you go into this work, know the phases of construction cleanup. The first phase of a construction cleaning job includes a rough clean after the electrical, plumbing, framing, and drywall go in. The second round of cleaning is more detailed, and occurs before the contractor does a final inspection.
A third and final round of cleaning is meant to get the place looking perfect before the tenants move in. Coming in with this knowledge will make you an attractive candidate for this position.
4. You can apply for these commercial cleaning jobs in person, over email, or over the phone. After you have applied, see if you can come back and walk through the site.
Not only does this show your commitment to the project, but you’ll get a chance to get to know your supervisor, familiarize yourself with the site, and ask any questions you might have about the upcoming work.
5. Find out about special needs and requirements. These days, different clients may have different needs or desires for how they want their work done. Some clients may require green cleaning or have special recycling protocols.
If that’s the case, you might want to do a little research ahead of time to make sure that you show up as prepared as possible and ready to impress your supervisor.
6. Be professional while on the site! This means that you should always follow safety precautions, and save the texting for break time. The better you do your job this time, the better chance you have of landing another job!
And one more bonus tip, after you’ve aced your first gig:
7. Once you have a little experience and some good references, you can land jobs that pay more and are scheduled ahead of time. These kinds of jobs will allow you to have more control and flexibility over your schedule.
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