Highways Cleaner

Job Description:

Highways cleaners keep footpaths, green spaces and streets clean, and deal with litter, graffiti, and items left by the public.

Job Category:

Government & Public Services

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What you will do:

You may:

drive street cleaning vehicles
use cleaning machines and hand tools such as brushes
clear drains and gullies
use a pressure washer to clean paved areas
remove litter, graffiti and fly posters
use specialist machines to remove chewing gum from pavements
clean equipment at the end of each day

Skills:

You’ll need:

knowledge of public safety and security
the ability to operate and control equipment
the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

As well as:

to be thorough and pay attention to detail
customer service skills
physical skills like movement, coordination and dexterity
the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
the ability to use your initiative (adaptability skills)

Illustration of employee looking at workspace

Entry Requirements:

To become a highway cleaner, specific subjects are not typically required. Highway cleaning positions often require practical skills, physical fitness, and a strong work ethic. However, certain subjects and skills can be beneficial if you’re considering a career in this field. Here are some subjects and skills that can be helpful:

English Language: Effective communication skills, including reading and understanding safety instructions and workplace policies, can be important in this role.
Mathematics: Basic math skills can be useful for tasks like measuring cleaning solutions or calculating cleaning timeframes.
Physical Education (PE): Highway cleaning often involves physically demanding work, so being physically fit and having stamina is essential.
Science: While not mandatory, having a basic understanding of environmental issues, pollution, and the effects of cleaning chemicals can be helpful.

Post School

You can get into this job through:

a college course
applying directly

College
You could do a college course that will teach you some of the skills for this job. Relevant courses include:

Level 1 Award in Cleaning
Level 2 Certificate in Cleaning Principles

Direct Application
You can apply directly for jobs. There are no set entry requirements, although you may need a driving licence to operate road sweeping vehicles.

Working Hours and Environment:

Typically you could work 36 – 38 hours a week, including early mornings.

Your working environment may be physically demanding and outdoors in all weathers.

You may need to wear protective clothing.

Career Path & Progression:

With qualifications and experience you could progress to become a supervisor or manager.

Highways Cleaner