As a custodian, you have an incomparable eye for detail, and juggling multiple tasks simultaneously is second nature. You’re not just responsible for keeping things clean—oftentimes, your responsibilities range from sanitation to repairs and inventory management.
With such a vast range of daily tasks, creating a cover letter and complementary custodian resume that adequately cover your particular background can be challenging. How do you decide what to discuss when your role is so diverse?
We’re here to help you select the right qualities to highlight. With our custodian cover letter examples and tips, coupled with our free AI cover letter generator you’ll land more interviews and get the job you want!
Copy this text for your Custodian cover letter!
123 Fictional Avenue
Houston, TX 77001
(123) 456-7890
December 12, 20XX
Olivia Jones
Memorial Hermann Health System
123 Fictional Lane
Houston, TX 77001
Dear Ms. Jones:
When news broke of Memorial Hermann Health System’s remarkable 11th rank among large companies in the Houston Chronicle’s Top Workplaces 2025, it rekindled my desire to pursue a custodian role at your esteemed establishment. My OSHA certification and dedication to health and safety align seamlessly with your institution’s unwavering commitment to quality healthcare, further fueling my desire to contribute to your organization as your custodian.
At Houston Methodist, I led a custodial team responsible for managing an inventory of sanitation supplies for over 40 hospital departments. We minimized stockouts by incorporating an efficient inventory management system using Oracle’s NetSuite software, ensuring an uninterrupted supply chain and facilitating a 26% annual cost savings.
Moving on at Houston Community College, I was entrusted with building maintenance for an occupancy of 2,300+ students. Remarkably, I implemented robust occupational health and safety standards, reducing workplace hazards by 33%. I drew on my proficiency in CleanTelligent software to streamline janitorial tasks, which, in turn, improved the efficiency of routine inspections by 22%.
My stint at Baylor College of Medicine involved extensive chemical handling, a critical skill in biomolecular labs. Using LabSolutions Management Software to dispose of and manage chemicals safely, I averted potential risks and improved safety standards. As a result, we witnessed a 32% decrease in chemical-related incidents during my tenure.
I’m thrilled to bring this custodial expertise and adaptability to Memorial Hermann Health System. Your organization’s reputation as the metro area’s top-ranked hospital emphasizes my enthusiasm to contribute to your goals. Thank you for considering my application; I would be excited to discuss further how my skills could meet Memorial Hermann’s needs.
Sincerely,
Olga Ivanova
Enclosures
Resume
Transcript
OSHA Certification
Why this cover letter works
- A blend of familiarity and enthusiasm right at the outset of your custodian cover letter captivates instantly. And what better way to infuse this combo than by showcasing your knowledge of the hiring company?
- Simply browse the company website’s news page and pick one outstanding achievement. It could be recognition as a top employer in the region or an award for an outstanding project. Or even a groundbreaking innovation in the industry. Whichever the case, spotlight it in your piece for an added dash of pizzazz and enthusiasm.
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Copy this text for your Custodian No Experience cover letter!
123 Fictional Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85001
(123) 456-7890
December 12, 20XX
Noah Brown
Arizona State University
123 Fictional Avenue
Phoenix, AZ 85001
Dear Mr. Brown:
As an enthusiast of creating clean and inviting spaces, I’m thrilled by the chance to elevate Arizona State University’s cleanliness standards as a janitorial trainee. I’m confident in employing my experience in floor care techniques, chemical handling, and waste management, all honed from experiences during my past roles and academic learning.
I volunteered at CBN Building Maintenance, where I handled the maintenance of a 1,694-square-foot building and fostered a 17% reduction in cleaning time, utilizing efficient floor care techniques and appropriate chemicals. In addition, I had the privilege of collaborating with fellow team members to develop an environmentally friendly cleaning method that improved chemical dilution ratios by 27%.
While taking a course in environmental science and waste management at GateWay Community College, I contributed to a project promoting sustainable waste management practices within our community. This experience launched a fruitful collaboration with local businesses and helped reduce waste going to landfills by 12%.
Recently, I supported my uncle’s plumbing business in Phoenix, AZ, for over six months. During this period, I successfully implemented and maintained inventory management systems for cleaning tools and supplies, which significantly improved accessibility and reduced misplacement by 23%.
I’m thrilled by the prospect of bringing my skills and commitment to cleanliness to Arizona State University’s janitorial team. I look forward to discussing how my experience in floor care techniques, chemical handling, waste management, and tool maintenance can contribute to maintaining the university’s high standards. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
Isabella Rossi
Why this cover letter works
- So, you feel intimidated by your lack of relevant work experience, bearing in mind some of your competitors have been in the field for some time. It’s understandable, but you’re not without an option. Think of a personal experience that tested and refined your mastery of a skill relevant to the custodian role.
- If seeking inspiration, see how Isabella’s custodian no experience cover letter narrates mastering inventory management when helping her uncle in his plumbing business. Moments like this can be as punchy as professional experiences.
Copy this text for your School Custodian cover letter!
123 Fictional Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19101
(123) 456-7890
December 12, 20XX
Ava Davis
Temple University
123 Fictional Lane
Philadelphia, PA 19101
Dear Ms. Davis:
My first experience with Temple University occurred during a tour around the beautifully maintained Philadelphia campus. As I observed the pristine conditions, I whispered to myself that I’d one day work there. Today, this vision compels me to apply for the school custodian position.
While with the Community College of Philadelphia, I helped reduce the number of accidents by 37% by executing top-tier safety protocols and conducting regular drills. In addition, I’m well-versed in using safety software like EHS, which has facilitated my understanding and implementation of safety standards at multiple levels.
Taking center stage in my former role at Central High School was maintaining waste management protocols. Overseeing a 2,300+ student institution, I facilitated multiple systematic waste recycling programs, leading to a 17% reduction in overall waste.
Drawing upon my basic plumbing skills, I worked with a team of three junior custodians to ensure the optimal operation of Chestnut Hill Hospital’s plumbing system. Our contribution helped curb water waste by approximately 21%. I believe these skills will also be instrumental in maintaining the pristine condition of Temple University.
Having proven my commitment to facility maintenance, I readily anticipate contributing to Temple University. I look forward to discussing how my qualifications could contribute to your team.
Thank you,
Miguel Fernandez
Why this cover letter works
- The school custodian’s role extends beyond maintaining cleanliness. It’s also more about safeguarding the well-being of everyone in the educational facility.
- You want to recount that previous workplace where you excelled in enforcing safety protocols. Infusing numbers here (cue reducing the number of accidents by maybe 37%) goes a long way to make your narration believable and impactful. Even better, talk about your proficiency in using safety software like EHS to enhance efficiency in implementing safety standards.
Copy this text for your Building Custodian cover letter!
123 Fictional Avenue
Philadelphia, PA 19101
(123) 456-7890
August 21, 20XX
Isabella Martinez
General Motors
123 Fictional Lane
Detroit, MI 48127
Dear Ms. Martinez:
Driving cleanliness and operational excellence aligns seamlessly with General Motors’ commitment to innovation and efficiency. Having witnessed firsthand the importance of a well-maintained environment, I understand how crucial it is to ensure that spaces are clean, safe, and efficiently managed. With three years of experience in custodial services, I’m eager to bring my skills and dedication to General Motors and support the high standards of your facilities.
My tenure at Hackensack Meridian Health Plan was groundbreaking, ushering in a QR code system to monitor cleaning supplies in real-time and trimming inventory inaccuracies to a slim 2%. I also harnessed technology platforms like EZOfficeInventory, InspectAll, and Monday.com, elevating staff responsibility and harmonizing workflows.
My stint at Great Lakes Financial Group was marked by my initiation of predictive maintenance using ServiceChannel analytics. This proactive approach led to a dramatic decrease in unexpected equipment downtime. By predicting and addressing maintenance issues before they could escalate, we saved over 102 hours per year that would have been lost to equipment failures, translating to a quarterly cost saving of $4,082.
My role at Marriott International underlined a dedication to pristine cleanliness and hygiene, fortified by the Kaivac CleanCheck system and its exhaustive checklists. This initiative boosted room readiness by 16%, ensuring that all safety issues were promptly addressed with the help of the maintenance team. The position honed my skills in conducting thorough inspections, rapid problem reporting, and consistently meeting the pinnacle of cleanliness and guest contentment.
With my background in efficiently managing facilities and implementing innovative solutions to common maintenance challenges, I believe I can be a valuable asset to your team. I look forward to discussing how my efforts can help maintain the high standards General Motors is known for. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
Samuel Kim
Enclosures:
Resume
Application
Transcript
Why this cover letter works
- So you’ve decided to give that building custodian job a shot. If you play your cards right and showcase those relevant skills, you’re sure to rise above the competition. Just try not to begin your building custodian cover letter with the snooze-worthy, “My name is X…”
- Why not kick things off with a little charm instead? It could be as simple as complimenting the company’s ambitions and detailing how well you mesh with their culture. Samuel, for instance, goes with “driving cleanliness and operational excellence aligns seamlessly with General Motors’ commitment to innovation and efficiency.”
Copy this text for your Janitorial Custodian cover letter!
123 Fictional Avenue
Denver, CO 80201
(123) 456-7890
August 21, 20XX
Emily Lewis
UCHealth
123 Fictional Lane
Denver, CO 80201
Dear Ms. Lewis:
As a janitorial custodian at UCHealth, my goal is to ensure a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for every patient. Your success stories about maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety convinced me that your hospital upholds the values of equity, safety, and integrity.
As the head custodian at Cherry Creek School District, I supervised a team of nine custodial staff, ensuring a sanitized space for nearly a thousand students and faculty members. I introduced Fishbowl Inventory for streamlined inventory management, which led to a 22% reduction in supply costs, and CleanTelligent for enhanced cleaning schedules, increasing our cleanliness ratings by 29%. In addition, developing a preventive maintenance program using Fiix demonstrated proactive management of equipment.
My budget management and team communication skills were further refined at ABM Industries. By implementing Microsoft Excel and Google Docs, we witnessed a 26% decrease in operational expenses and a 21% enhancement in task efficiency. I also harnessed iAuditor for regular safety inspections, fostering a 12% drop in workplace accidents.
Moreover, while at Honeywell, I upheld strict sanitation standards and managed facility spaces using IBM TRIRIGA, achieving a substantial 37% savings in operational costs. Not to mention I employed EnergyCAP to reduce utility expenses by 53%, demonstrating my ability to integrate technical solutions with strategic decision-making.
Confident that my extensive experience and proactive approach in custodial and facility management would make me a valuable addition to the UCHealth team, I look forward to our conversation about my qualifications. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Nathan Brown
Enclosures:
Resume
Application
Transcript
Why this cover letter works
- Your janitorial custodian cover letter should have one goal—to convince the recruiter you’re the cream of the crop. And what better way to do that than spelling out your core intention for the role—whether that’s in the intro, conclusion, or paragraph leading to the latter?
- Something like “As a janitorial custodian at UCHealth, my goal is to ensure a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for every patient” makes for a great example here. You get your point across, and the potential employers see your goals are in sync with their needs, nudging them a step closer to giving you that interview call.
Related cover letter examples
How to Write a Custodian Cover Letter That Gets You the Job
Whether you have loads of work experience in custodial roles or you’re just starting, you’re probably aware that the term “custodian” is often used for a variety of different roles. In some jobs, you might work in a huge facility, such as a school or a hospital, with a team of other custodians. In others, you’ll be the lone wolf in charge of a whole building.
To show employers that you fully grasp what the job is all about, the key is to study each job description carefully. Then, get familiar with the company or institution you want to work for to find a connection that shows you care.
Start strong with a customized greeting and intro
Unfortunately, hiring managers often skim or, worse yet, use AI-based systems to scan job applications. The good thing is that if you’re able to grab their attention right away with your custodian cover letter, your chances of landing the job increase exponentially.
Start by addressing the recipient by name. To do this, research the facility or company you’re applying to, be it through LinkedIn, its website, or a quick phone call. Next, personalize your intro.
Use this one short paragraph to draw a connection to the company and showcase how your background makes you a solid candidate. For instance, mention how your previous role in a massive hospital prepared you for the demands of keeping a medical facility running smoothly.
This opener does the opposite of what you’d want. It’s generic, meaning the cover letter will likely be discarded immediately.
Dull…
I need a job and I saw that you’re hiring. I hope you can give me a chance.
This opener is a dream come true. There’s no stronger connection to an employer than showing that you’ve previously dreamed of working there!
Well done!
My first experience with Temple University occurred during a tour around the beautifully maintained Philadelphia campus. As I observed the pristine conditions, I whispered to myself that I’d one day work there. Today, this vision compels me to apply for the school custodian position.
Show off your dedication in the body paragraphs
The role of a custodian covers a lot of ground—often literally! You must follow various sanitation standards, efficiently manage cleaning supplies and other resources, and even contribute to repairs.
With such a long list of tasks to tend to, it’s important to use your cover letter to highlight the ones that are most relevant to a given role. Pick some of your most impactful achievements that align with the job, and add some metrics to make them pop.
As an example, if the job description highlights the need for minor repairs, talk about how, in a past role, you completed an average of 30 repairs per week, increasing facility uptime by 29%.
This is how you get a new job!
At Houston Methodist, I led a custodial team responsible for managing an inventory of sanitation supplies for over 40 hospital departments. We minimized stockouts by incorporating an efficient inventory management system using Oracle’s NetSuite software, ensuring an uninterrupted supply chain and facilitating a 26% annual cost savings.
Get yourself hired with a strong closer
The final paragraph at the end of your custodian cover letter is just as important as that strong opener we discussed above. This is where you can drive home that you’re the right candidate for the job.
The best way to do this is to find a connection between you, your job skills, and the company. For example, if you’re applying to work at a company known for its eco-friendly approach, that’s a great hook!
Mention how you want to apply your experience in green cleaning initiatives, your care for the environment, and how important the company’s mission is to you.
Sign off with a sincere “thank you for your consideration.” People skills are crucial in the role of a custodian, so showing that you’re respectful will go a long way!
This next signoff isn’t too great. The goal is to make yourself look like an expert instead of downplaying your strengths.
Ouch…
I don’t have any experience in cleaning and this is my first job but I’ll try to learn if you show me.
This candidate did a wonderful job of highlighting what they can bring to the role.
They’ll love it!
I’m thrilled by the prospect of bringing my skills and commitment to cleanliness to Arizona State University’s janitorial team. I look forward to discussing how my experience in floor care techniques, chemical handling, waste management, and tool maintenance can contribute to maintaining the university’s high standards. Thank you for considering my application.
Custodian Cover Letter Mistakes to Avoid
- Cover letter’s greeting is too generic
- Each building has its quirks, and any facility you encounter could have specialized equipment you’ll need to know how to maintain. In other words, it pays to be thorough! Make sure you demonstrate this same level of thoroughness and genuine interest in the job role: Put in the effort to find out who you’re writing to, and they’ll be way more likely to remember you!
- Examples lack context
- You might worry about the risk of your cover letter sounding too mechanical at first, but a little context goes a long way! Look for your most compelling points and bolster your impact with metrics and a few choice details. Improve your credibility with quantifiable data like how much money you saved your employer on cleaning supplies thanks to your skills with inventory management—or by what percentage customer satisfaction went up thanks to your impeccable maintenance. And a few contextual elements like why you felt compelled to go beyond the call of duty make for a more memorable success story!
- Cover letter focuses on you instead of on company success
- While technically you’re applying for the job because you want to, you’ll need to write your cover letter and resume with the company’s perspective and desires in mind. Researching businesses and organizations to learn more about their backgrounds will help you gain insight regarding obstacles they’re currently facing that you could align yourself with.
The good thing about custodial roles is that they often don’t require much work experience. Talk about anything you might have done that shows you value cleanliness, time management, and dedication, such as volunteering at an animal shelter.
First of all, let the job description be your guide! Beyond that, it’s a good idea to discuss your knowledge of equipment, such as industrial floor cleaners and carpet extractors, or your ability to carry out various repairs. Add in some budget and inventory management as a huge perk!
You can! Add them to your custodian resume and cover letter as enclosures. Some of the best ones to highlight include the OSHA Certification, CIMS Certification, and the Environmental Cleaning Certification.
