Job Duties
Lodging housekeepers are responsible for keeping rooms and other spaces in lodging facilities clean and sanitary. They keep these areas free of litter and soil. Those who work in hotels, motels, and inns push carts containing supplies such as linen, towels, toilet items, and cleaning solutions from room to room. As they make their rounds, they make beds and supply each room with fresh towels, toiletries, glasses, and stationary. They sometimes hand drapes and roll up carpets. They may move and arrange furniture, turn mattresses, hang draperies, dust blinds, and polish metal work. They often prepare rooms for meetings, social functions, or business gatherings. They may also clean driveways or swimming pool areas.
Job Skills
Those interested in obtaining jobs as lodging housekeepers need to have oral and written communication skills. They interact with many different types of people, so it is imperative that they be able to communicate clearly and pleasantly.
Income
Lodging housekeepers earn between $4.25 and $8.00 per hour when they are first hired. As they gain experience, they may earn as much as $11.00 per hour. Earnings depend largely on the type of establishment in which they work. Motels are on the lower side and luxury hotels usually offer the best wages. Lodging housekeepers are often expected to work nights, weekends, and holidays. Some employers cover vacation, insurance, and retirement.
Training and Education
Almost all housekeeping work is learned on the job. Most lodging housekeepers have a high school diploma. The main requirements are a pleasant personality and a strong work ethic. Lodging housekeepers can advance to housekeeping supervisors, executive housekeeper, or housekeeping manager.
Job Outlook
Between 2002 and 2012, employment of hosts and hostesses is expected to increase about as fast as the average. More lodging facilities will be built as a result of a growing population and economy. This will increase demand for workers to keep these new facilities spotlessly clean.
To learn more about hospitality, retail, and travel related careers, please visit our section on Hospitality Schools for more information.
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