Discover exciting opportunities with cleaning jobs in the USA, where growing demand ensures a steady flow of openings for skilled foreigners.
With visa sponsorship possibilities from top employers, individuals can secure stable employment, competitive pay, and a pathway to long-term residency while contributing to essential industries across the country.
This guide covers the eligibility for cleaning jobs in the USA, highlights top employers offering visa sponsorship, and provides application links to get you started today.
Eligibility Criteria and Requirements for Cleaning Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Candidates must meet specific requirements to qualify for cleaning jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship:
- Educational Background: While a high school diploma or equivalent is often preferred, many entry-level cleaning roles do not require formal education. However, candidates with vocational training in housekeeping or janitorial services may have an advantage.
- Work Experience: Previous experience in cleaning, janitorial, or housekeeping roles is desirable. Experience with specialized cleaning techniques, such as operating industrial cleaning equipment or handling hazardous materials, may be required for certain positions.
- Visa Sponsorship Eligibility: Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria for visa sponsorship, typically through an employer who is authorized to sponsor foreign workers under programs like the H-2B or EB-3 visa categories.
- Physical Fitness: The job demands physical stamina, including the ability to perform repetitive motions, lift heavy objects (often up to 50 pounds), and work long hours standing or walking.
- Language Skills: Basic English proficiency is crucial for understanding instructions, communicating with supervisors or clients, and adhering to workplace safety protocols. Some roles may require fluency in other languages depending on the employer’s client base.
- Background Check: Employers typically require a thorough background check to verify the candidate’s criminal record and work history, ensuring reliability and trustworthiness.
- Specialized Skills and Certifications: Knowledge of handling cleaning chemicals safely, operating advanced cleaning machinery, or possessing certifications in occupational safety (e.g., OSHA training) can increase employability.
- Adaptability to Work Environment: Many cleaning jobs may require work during odd hours, including early mornings, late nights, or weekends. Flexibility to work in different settings, such as residential homes, hospitals, or commercial offices, is often expected.
- Attention to Detail: Employers value candidates with a keen eye for detail to ensure high-quality cleaning standards, especially in environments like hotels, healthcare facilities, and food service industries.
- Teamwork and Independence: The ability to work effectively as part of a team or independently is critical, depending on the nature of the cleaning role.
How to Find and Apply for Cleaning Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship as a Foreigner
Here are the steps:
Step 1: Research Potential Employers and Job Portals
Start by identifying companies and industries in the USA that require cleaning staff, such as hotels, hospitals, commercial buildings, and residential services.
Use specialized job portals like Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Jooble to search for “cleaning jobs with visa sponsorship” in the USA. Additionally, check the websites of specific organizations like cleaning agencies or facility management firms for direct job postings.
Step 2: Check Eligibility and Visa Sponsorship Policies
Carefully read job descriptions to confirm that the employer offers visa sponsorship. Verify the type of visa they sponsor, such as H-2B for temporary workers or EB-3 for skilled laborers.
Ensure you meet the qualifications listed, including experience, physical fitness, language proficiency, and any certifications required.
Step 3: Prepare a Professional Resume
Craft a resume tailored to cleaning jobs. Highlight your work experience, specific cleaning skills, and soft skills like attention to detail and time management. Include any certifications, such as occupational safety training, if applicable.
Step 4: Apply for Open Positions
Submit your application through online job portals or the employer’s website. Attach your resume and a customized cover letter explaining why you are an ideal candidate for the role and how your background aligns with their needs.
For roles requiring sponsorship, mention your willingness to work under a visa program.
Step 5: Follow Up and Network
After submitting your application, follow up with the employer or recruiter to express continued interest.
Networking through platforms like LinkedIn can help you connect with recruiters or employees in the cleaning industry who may share insights or refer you to open positions.
Step 6: Attend Interviews and Provide Necessary Documentation
If shortlisted, prepare for the interview by reviewing common cleaning job questions and demonstrating your familiarity with industry practices.
During the hiring process, be ready to provide documentation, including your passport, proof of experience, and certifications.
Step 7: Secure Visa Sponsorship and Complete Immigration Process
Once hired, work closely with your employer to complete the visa application process. They will file the necessary petitions for your work visa. Ensure all required documents, such as medical exams or police clearance certificates, are submitted promptly.
Step 8: Relocate and Begin Employment
After your visa is approved, make arrangements for relocation to the USA. Coordinate with your employer regarding your start date and initial accommodations. Familiarize yourself with the work culture and local laws to ensure a smooth transition.
Top Janitorial Services Offering Cleaning Jobs In USA With Visa Sponsorship
Here are the top janitorial services:
ABM Industries
ABM Industries is a leading provider of integrated facility services, offering cleaning and janitorial jobs in various industries, including healthcare, education, and retail.
ABM is known for its diverse workforce and often sponsors work visas for skilled foreign workers under the H-2B program. Candidates with prior experience in commercial cleaning or specialized tasks, such as floor care and industrial sanitation, are preferred.
To apply, visit their official careers page at ABM Industries Careers and search for visa sponsorship opportunities.
ServiceMaster Clean
ServiceMaster Clean is a nationwide cleaning franchise specializing in commercial janitorial services, residential cleaning, and disaster restoration.
The company occasionally sponsors eligible foreign workers under temporary work visas for roles in high-demand locations. Applicants with strong work ethics and basic English proficiency are encouraged to apply.
To explore current job openings, go to ServiceMaster Careers.
Jani-King International
Jani-King is a global leader in commercial cleaning services, offering jobs in offices, healthcare facilities, and hospitality sectors. Known for its franchising model, Jani-King supports visa sponsorship in locations facing labor shortages.
Applicants with hands-on experience in cleaning large commercial spaces or specialized tasks like carpet cleaning have an advantage.
For job opportunities, check Jani-King Careers.
ISS Facility Services
ISS is a global facilities management company providing cleaning, security, and support services. The company has a strong presence in the USA and supports visa sponsorship for foreign workers under certain programs.
Roles in janitorial services often require knowledge of advanced cleaning technologies and safety protocols.
Interested candidates can apply via their official website at ISS Careers.
The Budd Group
The Budd Group is a regional cleaning and maintenance services provider operating in the southeastern USA. They focus on the education and healthcare sectors and occasionally sponsor foreign workers under temporary visa programs.
Candidates with a background in custodial services or experience using professional cleaning equipment are ideal.
Visit The Budd Group Careers to apply for current opportunities.
The Average Salary for Cleaning Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Cleaning jobs in the USA provide a range of compensation depending on the job type, location, and experience level.
Here’s a breakdown:
National Average Salary
The national average salary for cleaning jobs in the USA, such as janitorial staff or residential cleaners, is around $14.00 per hour, which translates to an annual salary of approximately $29,120.
This figure can vary slightly depending on the specific skills and certifications the cleaner holds, as well as the geographic location where the job is based.
Top-Paying Cities
- San Francisco, CA ($37,500/year): San Francisco offers some of the highest salaries in the country, driven by the high cost of living and demand for cleaning professionals in commercial and residential sectors.Â
- New York City, NY ($36,800/year): NYC is a hub for hospitality and commercial office spaces that require cleaning services. The wages reflect the city’s large market for these jobs, with high compensation for cleaners in hotels, office buildings, and healthcare facilities.
- Boston, MA ($35,400/year): Boston’s demand for cleaning services is driven by its large healthcare, education, and technology sectors. It has a highly competitive labor market, leading to higher wages for cleaners with experience.
- Seattle, WA ($34,700/year): Seattle offers high wages due to strong labor protections and the need for skilled residential and commercial cleaners. The demand for cleaning professionals is growing, especially in large corporate campuses, tech offices, and hotels.
Top-Paying States
- California ($35,000/year): California is known for its high salaries across urban and suburban areas. The demand for cleaning services spans various sectors such as education, hospitality, and commercial real estate. Cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco are the highest-paying regions.
- New York ($34,500/year): New York has a high concentration of offices, hotels, and healthcare facilities that need consistent cleaning. Specialized roles, such as healthcare cleaning, pay higher wages.
- Massachusetts ($33,800/year): Massachusetts, particularly in cities like Boston, offers competitive salaries for cleaning jobs in institutions such as hospitals, universities, and office buildings.
- Washington ($33,200/year): Washington state, especially cities like Seattle, offers higher wages due to the strong demand for residential and commercial cleaning services. The state has high labor standards and opportunities for growth in the cleaning industry.
Employment Types
- Full-Time Employees: $30,000 – $36,000/year ($14.00 – $17.00/hour). Full-time cleaning positions often come with benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and sometimes retirement plans. These positions are more common in healthcare, corporate offices, and large hotels.
- Part-Time Employees: $13.50 – $16.00/hour. Part-time cleaning jobs often have flexible hours, and some workers may work multiple jobs to increase earnings. Part-time positions are common in residential cleaning and hospitality.
- Contract Workers: $15.00 – $17.00/hour. Independent contractors may earn higher hourly wages as they are hired for specific projects or on-demand cleaning jobs. They are not typically entitled to benefits but have more flexibility in their work schedule.
Experience Levels
- Entry-Level Cleaners: $12.50/hour ($26,000/year). Entry-level positions typically involve general cleaning duties, such as sweeping, mopping, and taking out trash. These positions require minimal prior experience and are common in commercial, residential, and hospitality settings.
- Experienced Professionals: $16.50/hour ($34,320/year). Experienced cleaners often handle more specialized tasks like floor waxing, carpet cleaning, or industrial cleaning. Experience in particular industries like healthcare or hospitality may command a premium.
- Supervisors/Managers: $22.00/hour ($45,760/year). Supervisors and managers in cleaning services handle scheduling, ensure safety compliance, and supervise teams of cleaners. These positions often require years of experience in the field and additional leadership skills.
Industries
- Healthcare Cleaning: $34,500/year. Cleaning professionals working in healthcare settings such as hospitals and nursing homes require specialized training in sanitation and infection control. The high importance of cleanliness in these settings translates into higher wages.
- Hospitality Cleaning: $32,000/year. Hotels, resorts, and restaurants need regular cleaning, and workers in these environments often receive tips in addition to their salary. The wages tend to vary depending on the location and the prestige of the establishment.
- Industrial Cleaning: $35,200/year. Industrial cleaning jobs involve cleaning factories, warehouses, or construction sites. These positions may require certifications or training for handling hazardous materials, which increases the pay rate.
- Residential Cleaning: $28,500/year. Residential cleaning jobs can range from casual housekeeping to deep cleaning services. While generally lower paying than industrial or commercial jobs, residential cleaning often offers more flexible hours and the potential for tips.
Divisions
- Janitorial Services: $31,500/year. Janitors are responsible for maintaining cleanliness in buildings, including schools, offices, and other institutions. These jobs often require consistent, routine work but offer a steady paycheck and benefits.
- Housekeeping: $28,800/year. Housekeepers typically work in hotels, motels, or private homes. They are responsible for making beds, cleaning bathrooms, and general tidying up. Pay varies based on location and job type.
- Specialized Cleaning: $36,000/year. Specialized cleaning roles can include biohazard cleanup, high-rise window cleaning, or industrial cleaning. These jobs require specific skills and certifications, making them some of the highest-paying positions in the field.
Benefits of Cleaning Jobs In USA With Visa Sponsorship
Here are the key benefits:
Job Stability and Demand
Cleaning jobs in the USA offer excellent job stability, particularly with visa sponsorship for foreigners.
As businesses, healthcare facilities, and residential buildings continuously require cleaning services, the demand for janitorial staff remains high. This means that there will always be a steady stream of opportunities for foreign workers looking to settle in the U.S.
Competitive Salaries and Benefits
Cleaning positions often provide competitive hourly wages with the potential for overtime pay. Workers with specific skill sets or certifications (such as handling hazardous materials) can earn higher wages.
In addition to competitive salaries, many employers offer benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans.
Career Advancement Opportunities
Although cleaning positions are often entry-level, there are opportunities for career advancement.
Experienced cleaners can move into supervisory roles, manage cleaning teams, or transition to more specialized positions like facilities management or environmental services. This provides long-term career growth potential for foreign workers.
Flexible Work Schedules
Cleaning jobs often offer flexible work hours, which is ideal for those seeking part-time work or the ability to balance multiple jobs.
Many cleaning positions offer evening or overnight shifts, which allows workers to find a schedule that best fits their lifestyle. This flexibility is particularly helpful for individuals looking to pursue further education or personal interests alongside their employment.
Visa Sponsorship Support
Through programs like the H-2B visa, foreign workers can gain sponsorship from employers, allowing them to work legally in the country for a specified period.
This provides job security and the possibility of extending work permits or transitioning to permanent residency, depending on the employer’s support.
Cultural Integration and Networking
Working in the U.S. offers foreign workers the chance to immerse themselves in American culture and build networks.
Cleaning staff often work alongside local employees, which provides opportunities for cultural exchange and helps workers practice their English language skills, all while earning a living.
Health and Safety Standards
Employers in the U.S. are required to adhere to strict health and safety regulations, ensuring that cleaners have access to proper training, equipment, and protection while on the job.
This helps minimize the risk of accidents and injuries, providing a safer work environment for foreign workers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a cleaner in the USA?
To become a cleaner in the USA, you typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, though no formal education is usually required. Many employers provide on-the-job training. Specialized skills or certifications (e.g., cleaning hazardous materials, or experience with industrial cleaning) may improve job prospects and salary potential.
Is cleaning a professional job?
While cleaning is often considered a skilled trade rather than a “professional” career, it involves specialized knowledge, particularly in commercial or industrial settings. With the right training and certifications, cleaning can become a valued career path, offering room for advancement and greater responsibilities.
Is housekeeping in demand in the USA?
Yes, housekeeping and cleaning jobs are in high demand in the USA, particularly in industries such as hospitality, healthcare, and commercial real estate. The demand for cleaning staff is expected to continue growing due to the ongoing need for sanitary environments in workplaces, hotels, hospitals, and other facilities.
What is the average salary for cleaners in the USA?
The average salary for cleaners in the USA is about $14 per hour or $29,120 annually. However, salaries can vary depending on location, level of experience, and the specific industry. Some specialized cleaning jobs or positions in higher-paying regions can offer increased wages.
Do all cleaning jobs offer visa sponsorship?
Not all cleaning jobs offer visa sponsorship. While some larger employers or those in specific industries (like hospitality or commercial cleaning) may provide visa sponsorship through programs like the H-2B visa, most cleaning positions require workers to already have legal authorization to work in the U.S.
Is experience mandatory for cleaning jobs in the USA?
Experience is not mandatory for many cleaning jobs in the USA, especially entry-level positions. However, experience can be beneficial and might help secure higher-paying roles or jobs in specialized fields, such as industrial cleaning or healthcare cleaning, which may require specific skills.
What qualifications do I need to be a cleaner in the USA?
To work as a cleaner in the USA, you generally need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some jobs may require specific certifications (like OSHA training for hazardous cleaning). Specialized cleaning positions (e.g., industrial or healthcare cleaning) may also require additional skills or training.
What is the age limit for cleaning in the USA?
There is no official age limit for cleaning jobs in the USA. However, the minimum legal age for employment is typically 16, and certain cleaning tasks may require physical endurance, which may be more demanding for older workers. Employers must comply with age discrimination laws when hiring.
Can cleaners apply for permanent residency in the USA?
Cleaners can apply for permanent residency in the USA, but it is a lengthy and competitive process. If an employer is willing to sponsor a worker through an H-2B visa or another work visa, it may be possible to transition to permanent residency through employment-based immigration options.
Which US state pays the most for cleaning jobs?
The highest-paying states for cleaning jobs tend to be those with higher living costs, such as California, New York, and Massachusetts. For example, cleaning jobs in California or New York may offer salaries ranging from $16 to $20 per hour, reflecting the cost of living and demand for skilled workers.