How to Find Housekeeping Jobs

Comprehensive Guide on How to Find Housekeeping Jobs in Canada

Housekeeping jobs offer flexible working hours and steady income, and they are in demand across Canada. Whether you’re looking to work in residential homes, hotels, or businesses, this guide will show you how to find housekeeping jobs, highlight the qualifications you need, and the best platforms and strategies to use when searching for opportunities.

1. What Does a Housekeeper Do?

Housekeepers are responsible for cleaning and maintaining homes, hotels, offices, and other establishments. The tasks can range from basic cleaning duties to more specialized services depending on the job type and location.

Common Responsibilities of Housekeepers:

• Cleaning rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and common areas
• Vacuuming, mopping, and dusting
• Washing and ironing linens
• Taking out the trash and recycling
• Restocking supplies like toiletries and towels
• Reporting damages or issues to the employer
• Occasionally performing additional tasks like meal prep or laundry

2. Skills and Qualifications for Housekeeping Jobs

While formal education is often not required for housekeeping jobs, having the right skills and certifications can improve your chances of landing better opportunities.

Essential Skills:

• Attention to Detail: Thorough cleaning requires careful attention to ensure all areas are spotless and meet standards.
• Time Management: Housekeepers often have several tasks to complete within a limited time.
• Physical Stamina: Housekeeping can be physically demanding, requiring energy and strength to carry out tasks like lifting, bending, and moving furniture.
• Communication: Good communication skills are essential when coordinating with employers or coworkers.
• Dependability: Housekeepers must be trustworthy and reliable, as they are often unsupervised.

Optional Skills:

• Specialized Cleaning Knowledge: Experience with different types of cleaning materials and tools (e.g., steam cleaners, floor polishers).
• First Aid/CPR Certification: While not common for all housekeeping jobs, having first aid knowledge can be a bonus, especially for live-in roles.
• Bilingualism: In Canada, being able to speak both English and French can be an asset in certain regions, particularly in Quebec.

3. How to Find Housekeeping Jobs in Canada

There are several avenues to explore when searching for housekeeping jobs, from online job boards to local listings. Below are the most effective methods for finding opportunities across Canada.

1. Job Search Websites and Platforms

Online job boards and platforms are some of the most convenient ways to find housekeeping jobs. You can browse listings by location, apply directly, and sometimes even upload your resume for employers to find you.

a. Indeed.ca

• Description: Indeed is one of the largest job boards in Canada, with a wide variety of housekeeping job listings for both residential and commercial settings.
• Features: Search by job type, location, salary, and schedule.
• Website: Indeed.ca

b. Job Bank (Canada)

• Description: Canada’s government-run Job Bank is an excellent resource for finding housekeeping jobs, especially for those looking for work in hotels or other establishments.
• Features: Search for jobs across all provinces, get job alerts, and filter by employer-verified listings.
• Website: Job Bank

c. Workopolis

• Description: Workopolis is a popular job site in Canada, offering listings for housekeeping jobs in various sectors, including residential, hotel, and office cleaning positions.
• Website: Workopolis

d. Jobillico

• Description: Jobillico connects job seekers with employers across Canada. It’s particularly useful for those looking for housekeeping jobs in Quebec and other Francophone areas.
• Website: Jobillico

e. Monster.ca

• Description: Monster.ca is another large job board in Canada that lists a wide range of housekeeping positions in residential, commercial, and hotel environments.
• Website: Monster.ca

f. Housekeeper.com

• Description: Housekeeper.com is a specialized platform designed to connect housekeepers with clients across Canada. It’s great for finding residential jobs, live-in positions, and part-time work.
• Website: Housekeeper.com

2. Recruitment Agencies

If you’re looking for a more hands-on approach to job hunting, recruitment agencies can help you find housekeeping jobs by matching your skills with employers’ needs.

a. MaidPro Canada

• Description: MaidPro is a well-known residential cleaning service across Canada. They regularly hire housekeepers and cleaners to work on various assignments.
• Website: MaidPro Canada

b. Kelly Services

• Description: Kelly Services is a recruitment agency that offers placement for a variety of roles, including housekeeping positions in residential and commercial environments.
• Website: Kelly Services Canada

c. Hays Canada

• Description: Hays is a global recruitment agency with offices across Canada. They specialize in placing candidates in various sectors, including hospitality and housekeeping roles.
• Website: Hays Canada

3. Hotel and Hospitality Job Boards

Hotels and resorts are always in need of housekeepers, making the hospitality sector a reliable source for housekeeping jobs.

a. Hcareers

• Description: Hcareers is a job board focused specifically on the hospitality industry, including hotels, resorts, and other establishments. You’ll find many housekeeping roles here.
• Website: Hcareers

b. Marriott Careers

• Description: Marriott is one of the largest hotel chains in the world, and they frequently hire housekeepers for their properties across Canada.
• Website: Marriott Careers

c. Accor Hotels

• Description: Accor is a global hotel group with properties in Canada, including Fairmont Hotels. They regularly list housekeeping job openings on their careers page.
• Website: Accor Hotels Careers

4. Local Classifieds and Social Media

Sometimes the best housekeeping jobs are found through local classifieds or community forums. Families and businesses often post job listings in local newspapers, online classifieds, or social media groups.

a. Kijiji

• Description: Kijiji is a popular classified ads site in Canada, and it’s a great place to find local housekeeping jobs. Many homeowners and small businesses post jobs here.
• Website: Kijiji

b. Facebook Groups

• Description: Many communities have Facebook groups dedicated to local job postings. You can search for groups in your area by typing in keywords like “housekeeping jobs in [city].”
• Example: Search for groups like “Toronto Cleaning Jobs” or “Housekeeping Jobs in Vancouver.”

c. Nextdoor

• Description: Nextdoor is a neighborhood-based platform where people can post job offers, including housekeeping positions. This platform is great for finding local opportunities.
• Website: Nextdoor

5. Traditional Methods

You can also find housekeeping jobs using more traditional methods, like word-of-mouth and direct applications.

a. Word of Mouth

Tell friends, family, and neighbors that you're available for housekeeping jobs. Referrals are a common way to find clients, especially for residential cleaning.

b. Flyers and Business Cards

Posting flyers on community bulletin boards in grocery stores, libraries, or local cafes can attract clients. Include your contact information, availability, and the types of services you offer.

c. Cold Calling

You can also approach local hotels, motels, and businesses in person or by phone to inquire about housekeeping positions. Bringing your resume and asking for a manager can increase your chances of being considered.

4. Tips for Securing Housekeeping Jobs

Once you’ve found some housekeeping job opportunities, there are several strategies you can use to stand out from other applicants.

1. Create a Strong Resume

Even for entry-level housekeeping jobs, having a professional resume is important. Include your relevant work experience, any cleaning certifications, and soft skills such as time management and attention to detail.

2. Offer Specialized Services

To make your profile or application more appealing, consider offering specialized services, such as:

• Deep cleaning
• Eco-friendly cleaning options
• Carpet or window cleaning
• Organization and decluttering services

3. Obtain Certifications

Although not required for all housekeeping jobs, getting certifications can give you an advantage. For example:

• WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System) certification
• CPR and First Aid certification (especially for live-in positions)

4. Be Flexible with Scheduling

Many housekeeping jobs require flexibility in hours, especially in hotels and resorts. Offering to work weekends or evenings can help you secure more jobs.

5. Get Client Reviews

If you’ve done housekeeping work in the past, ask your clients for references or reviews. Positive testimonials can make a significant difference in landing new jobs, especially in residential cleaning.

5. Legal Considerations and Employment Standards

Before starting a housekeeping job in Canada, it's important to understand your rights and responsibilities as a worker.

1. Minimum Wage

Housekeepers in Canada are entitled to at least the minimum wage, which varies by province. Be sure to check your province’s wage laws.

2. Employment Contracts

It’s always a good idea to have a written employment contract outlining your duties, working hours, pay rate, and conditions.

3. Worker’s Compensation

If you’re injured on the job, you may be entitled to worker’s compensation benefits, which cover medical costs and lost wages.

By utilizing these methods and tools, you can find housekeeping jobs in Canada that fit your schedule and skills. Whether you're seeking part-time or full-time work, the demand for housekeeping services ensures that opportunities are always available.