CLEANER (X3 POSTS)

This position offers an opportunity to contribute directly to the safe, clean and welcoming environment of public healthcare facilities within the Metro Health Services directorate, based in the Southern/Western Sub-structure Office. A total of three cleaner posts are available, with one placement at Grassy Park Community Day Centre and two placements at Vanguard Community Health Centre. Working as part of the facility’s support team, the cleaner plays a vital role in infection prevention, patient dignity and the overall smooth running of the health facility, ensuring that all areas are maintained to the highest possible standard of hygiene and neatness.

Candidates applying for this role must have basic numeracy and literacy skills, as these are essential for understanding cleaning instructions, labelling of materials, safety signage and stock control processes. The job demands physical fitness and stamina, as the work involves manual tasks such as lifting, bending, pushing heavy cleaning equipment and standing for extended periods. Prospective employees must be able to operate heavy-duty cleaning and household equipment such as industrial vacuum cleaners, floor polishers and scrubbing machines. A willingness to work shifts is an inherent requirement, including weekends, public holidays, and both day and night duty, according to the operational needs of the facility. In addition, candidates must be ready to rotate across different departments within the facility as required, so adaptability and a cooperative attitude are essential.

Key competencies include good interpersonal skills, since the cleaner will interact with patients, visitors, nursing staff and management on a daily basis. Excellent communication skills are also required for giving and receiving instructions, reporting maintenance issues, and working effectively within a team. The role also demands familiarity with the correct methods of handling and disposing of refuse and waste products, including adherence to the facility’s waste management policies and general cleaning practices. This includes understanding the distinction between general, infectious and sharps waste where applicable, and following the prescribed procedures to protect both staff and patients from contamination or injury.

The main duties involve the full spectrum of general cleaning and maintenance work. This encompasses sweeping, scrubbing, mopping, dusting, polishing and removing refuse from all areas of the facility. The cleaner is also responsible for cleaning windows, walls and hospital grounds, ensuring that entrance points, waiting areas, consultation rooms and wards all present a clean and professional appearance. Beyond routine cleaning, the post holder must ensure the effective and efficient utilisation and storage of cleaning materials and equipment, taking care to use supplies economically and store them safely and securely. It is also the responsibility of the cleaner to adhere strictly to safety precautions and to support the implementation of occupational health and safety policies at all times. This means promptly reporting hazards, using personal protective equipment where required, and following established procedures for handling cleaning chemicals and waste. The cleaner provides essential cleaning support to the Facility Manager and works collaboratively with colleagues to maintain a healthy environment for everyone using the facility.

Applicants should note that no payment of any kind is required when applying for this post, and that short-listed candidates may be required to undergo a practical, written and oral assessment as part of the selection process. This allows the employer to verify the skills and competencies described above in a hands-on manner. This is an entry-level position that offers a meaningful career path in the public health sector, with the satisfaction of knowing that good cleaning practice directly contributes to patient care and safety.