Description of the function
The housekeeping attendant is responsible for housekeeping of rooms and public areas depending on the hotel establishment’s policies and procedures.
He must in particular:
- Clean the bathroom and the room (change the linen and make the beds, dust the furniture and vacuum, clean the toilets, mirrors, lamps, interior windows and windowsill, empty the trash, check the condition of the furniture and equipment, refill amenities and hygiene products, etc.)
- Report irregularities in the condition of the rooms
- Clean the rooms and accessories connected with the rental unit (kitchenette, whirlpool, fireplace, etc.)
- Clean the public reception areas and toilets
- As needed, perform laundry duties
The position can develop into that of housekeeper then to positions of supervision in the field of housekeeping such as housekeeping manager (see testimonial below).
Prerequisites
No special experience is required However, many employers require a high school diploma (DES).
Personal qualities
- Keen sense of customer service
- Attention to detail
- Minimal knowledge of French and English
- Taste for repetitive tasks
- Good physical condition
Compensation
Compensation varies according to the experience of the employee, the company’s situation and the job itself.
This job often requires working evenings, weekends and holidays.
The word of the professionals
Rose-Anne Gabriel, housekeeping manager, Hôtel Alt Montréal (www.althotels.com).
What does your job consist of?
The housekeeping department oversees each guest’s well-being and comfort by providing warm and cared for spaces which let them feel at home every day without exception. We meet the expectations of our guests and anticipate their needs while respecting their privacy. As housekeeping manager, a large part of my work consists of managing the hiring process and human resources. I ensure that each employee is properly trained, both in cleaning techniques and in customer service. I also carry out budget management, inventory management and standards management.
What do you like most about your job?
The interaction with our guests as well as with my co-workers.
In your opinion, what are the two main qualities that you have to have for this job and why?
- A keen sense of customer service: we offer an experience to our guests and in order to meet their expectations there must be a desire to serve.
- Adaptability: hospitality is a field that is constantly changing. So you have to know how to adapt to change so you can continue to innovate.