Cleaner

Cleaners maintain a clean and hygienic environment for rail passengers and staff. They use manual and powered equipment to wash and disinfect surfaces, remove litter, stains and graffiti.
Also known as: Graffiti removal

Is this role right for you?

Cleaners work in a fast-paced environment. There are hundreds of trains, stations and facilities that require cleaning every day so cleaners must stick to schedule and clean to a high standard. Cleaning can be physically demanding.

What are some example projects or experiences?

Cleaners can undertake a variety of different tasks depending on their employer, facilities and experience. Some cleaners will focus on cleaning facilities and internal areas of trains. While others will specialise in graffiti removal, windows or machinery. All cleaners learn to use manual equipment (mops, brooms and vacuums) and specialised powered equipment (pressure washers, floor polishers). Some specialised cleaning tasks are enhanced with the use of automated systems and robotics. At times cleaners will also undertake minor maintenance work and painting. And cleaners learn how to use cleaning chemicals safely. Melbourne’s rail network includes over 220 stations and depots, and a fleet of over 460 three-carriage trains that run on 15 lines. Every facility and train need daily cleaning to ensure the environment is clean and hygienic for all passengers and crew. Cleaners remove litter from trains, empty waste bins, remove stains and graffiti, and wash and disinfect handrails, floors, windows and doors.

What is the work environment like?

Cleaners work on passenger rail networks, network and freight facilities and construction sites. In most roles you will spend long periods of time standing or walking. It can be a physically demanding role. In some roles you’ll wear protective and safety equipment such as a hardhat, gloves, and hi-visibility clothing. Many cleaners work in indoor and covered environments such as stations and maintenance depots where they are protected from the weather. Some work sites are exposed to weather so you may need to work in the heat, cold, wind and rain. You may be required to do shift work, including split shifts, nights, weekends, rotating rosters and public holidays. You’ll usually work in a small team but at times you may work alone. You can find work as a cleaner all around Australia. Most jobs are in cities and towns. Some are in remote areas.

Eligibility & pathways

Cleaners usually don’t need any formal qualifications. Some employers will help you complete a Certificate III in Cleaning Operations. You may need a general construction induction card (White Card) to access some work locations. For some roles you may need an elevated work platform ticket and first aid training. You may also require your own vehicle and a driver’s licence. Your employer will generally provide rail-specific safety and induction training. Our industry values diverse personal and work experience. Many employers can provide you with opportunities to gain new qualifications and industry experience to help you succeed.

Current job vacancies

School Cleaner - Roma Mitchell 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Largs North
 

Cleaner - Shoalhaven - Full Time & Part Time roles 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Tamworth Region
 

Full Time Cleaners - Amberley 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Brisbane CBD
 

Cleaners - Full Time - Enoggera 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Brisbane CBD
 

Periodical Cleaner- Darling Downs 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Brisbane CBD
 

Cleaner- AWMA 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Geelong Region
 

Casual Cleaner - Alice Springs Airport 

Downer Group
Alice Springs
 

Cleaner - Part Time - Darling Downs 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Brisbane CBD
 

Pressure Washer Operator - Cleaner (Level 3) 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Largs North
 

Cleaner Canungra 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Brisbane CBD
 

School Cleaner 

Downer
Adelaide
 

Cleaner - SCUH 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Brisbane CBD
 

Cleaner - Wagga 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Tamworth Region
 

Cleaner - Townsville 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Brisbane CBD
 

Cleaner - Metro Trains Melbourne 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Melbourne CBD
 

Periodical Cleaner 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Brisbane CBD
 

Part-time Cleaners 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Brisbane CBD
 

Casual Cleaner - Alice Springs Airport 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Tennant Creek
 

Casual Cleaner 

Downer
Alice Springs
 

Cleaner 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Tamworth Region
 

Periodical Cleaner 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Tamworth Region
 

Cleaner 

DOWNER EDI LIMITED
Tamworth Region
 

Peggy 

Martinus Rail
Bundaburrah
 
Avenues of Entry
Trainee
Qualified
Pay Range
$53K
$62K
Entry level
$53,500 - $61,999

Salaries may vary outside of these ranges, based on company size and location, level of experience, competence and time in role.