Looking for cleaner jobs in South Africa in 2026? There are several cleaning-related vacancies currently listed on the Simplify Jobs platform, including opportunities in Gqeberha, Durban and Midrand.
The available positions include Cleaner, Cleaner – Nelson Mandela Bay and Cleaner – Midrand vacancies, as well as other cleaning and facilities-management opportunities.
Some of these positions are suitable for applicants with Matric/Grade 12, while requirements vary depending on the employer and job.
*The supplied listing shows 25 August 2026 as the closing date. Since today’s date is 26 August 2026, applicants should check the vacancy page to see whether the position is still accepting applications.
Note: The search results also include vacancies in Zambia and Namibia. Those have not been included in the main South African cleaner-job list because they are outside South Africa.
1. Cleaner – Nelson Mandela Bay
Advtech is currently advertising a Cleaner – Nelson Mandela Bay position in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape.
The position is offered on a contract basis and involves keeping school and kitchen premises clean, hygienic and tidy.
According to the supplied vacancy description, the successful candidate will be expected to:
Keep lecture rooms clean and tidy.
Keep training kitchens neat and orderly.
Maintain cleanliness around the premises.
Complete ad hoc cleaning tasks.
Follow instructions from the line manager.
Maintain appropriate hygiene standards.
Closing date: 31 August 2026.
This could be an opportunity for applicants looking for cleaning work in Gqeberha/Nelson Mandela Bay.
2. Cleaner – Midrand
Dis-Chem Pharmacies is advertising a Cleaner – Midrand position.
The position is permanent and is based at the company’s Head Office in Midrand, Gauteng.
The supplied vacancy information states that the Cleaner will be responsible for maintaining a clean and neat office environment while maintaining the required hygiene standards.
The listing indicates that Grade 12/Matric is an essential requirement.
Closing date: 31 August 2026.
Applicants who meet the requirements should apply before the closing date.
3. Cleaner – Empact Group
Empact Group has also advertised a Cleaner position in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.
The position is offered on a contract basis.
According to the supplied vacancy information, the main purpose of the position is to clean, stock and supply an assigned area, inspect areas and document maintenance activities and special cleaning projects.
The listing indicates that:
Matric is essential.
Customer service experience is an advantage.
Previous relevant cleaning experience may be beneficial.
Applicants should be able to maintain high standards of cleanliness.
Attention to detail is important.
Because this is a contract opportunity, applicants should carefully check the vacancy information for the contract duration and other conditions before applying.
Cleaner Duties and Responsibilities
Although duties differ between employers, cleaners are commonly responsible for maintaining safe, hygienic and organised working environments.
Typical responsibilities can include:
Sweeping and mopping floors.
Cleaning bathrooms.
Dusting and wiping surfaces.
Emptying rubbish bins.
Cleaning offices and common areas.
Cleaning kitchens and food-preparation areas.
Replenishing cleaning supplies.
Reporting damaged equipment.
Reporting maintenance problems.
Following health and safety procedures.
Using cleaning chemicals correctly.
Maintaining cleaning equipment.
Completing cleaning schedules.
Performing additional cleaning tasks when required.
A good cleaner should be reliable, physically capable of performing the duties and able to work independently while following instructions.
Requirements for Cleaner Jobs
There is no single qualification requirement for every cleaner vacancy.
Depending on the employer, you may need:
Grade 12/Matric.
Previous cleaning experience.
Knowledge of cleaning chemicals.
Knowledge of hygiene procedures.
Good communication skills.
Reliability and punctuality.
Ability to work independently.
Ability to work as part of a team.
Physical ability to perform cleaning duties.
Attention to detail.
For example, the supplied Dis-Chem listing specifically indicates Grade 12/Matric as an essential requirement, while the Empact Group listing also states that Matric is essential.
Therefore, don’t assume that every cleaner vacancy has the same requirements. Always read the individual job advertisement before applying.
How to Apply for Cleaner Jobs
You can search for cleaner vacancies on the Simplify Jobs platform using the following link:
When applying, make sure your CV clearly includes:
Your full name and contact details.
Education and qualifications.
Previous employment.
Cleaning experience.
Relevant skills.
References where appropriate.
Availability.
If you have experience working in schools, hospitals, offices, hotels, restaurants, shopping centres, factories or other facilities, make sure this is clearly stated on your CV.
Never pay someone to secure a job for you. Be cautious of anyone requesting money in exchange for an interview, appointment letter or guaranteed employment.
Cleaner Interview Questions and Answers
If you are invited for a cleaner job interview, don’t assume the interview will only focus on your previous cleaning experience.
Employers may also want to know whether you are reliable, trustworthy, safety-conscious and capable of following instructions.
Here are some relevant questions and example answers.
1. Tell us about yourself.
Example answer:
“I am a hardworking, reliable and responsible person. I take pride in keeping working environments clean and organised. I am comfortable working independently or as part of a team, and I understand the importance of following cleaning, hygiene and safety procedures.”
2. Why do you want to work as a cleaner?
Example answer:
“I enjoy working in an environment where I can see the results of my work. I understand that cleanliness is important for the health, safety and comfort of employees, customers and visitors. I am also reliable and willing to work hard to maintain high standards.”
3. What experience do you have as a cleaner?
Example answer:
“I have experience performing cleaning duties such as sweeping, mopping, dusting, cleaning bathrooms, emptying bins and maintaining general hygiene. I understand the importance of paying attention to detail and completing cleaning tasks properly.”
If you have no formal cleaning experience, don’t lie. Instead, say:
“I don’t have formal employment experience as a cleaner yet, but I am hardworking, willing to learn and understand the importance of cleanliness and hygiene. I am prepared to follow instructions and learn the correct procedures.”
4. How would you handle cleaning chemicals?
Example answer:
“I would always follow the instructions on the product and the company’s safety procedures. I would use the correct protective equipment and never mix chemicals unless I am specifically instructed to do so according to approved procedures.”
5. What would you do if you noticed a spill on the floor?
Example answer:
“I would deal with the spill as soon as possible to prevent someone from slipping. I would secure or warn people about the area if necessary, clean the spill using the appropriate equipment and report any issue that requires maintenance.”
6. How do you make sure you don’t miss cleaning tasks?
Example answer:
“I would follow the cleaning schedule and work systematically through each assigned area. I would pay attention to high-use areas such as bathrooms, kitchens and entrances and make sure all required tasks are completed before finishing my shift.”
7. What would you do if you were given additional work while you were already busy?
Example answer:
“I would listen carefully to the instruction and determine the priority of the task. If I am unsure which task should be completed first, I would ask my supervisor. I would then organise my work so that I can complete the required tasks properly.”
8. How would you deal with a difficult supervisor?
Example answer:
“I would remain professional and respectful. If I don’t understand an instruction, I would ask for clarification rather than making assumptions. I believe good communication is important, especially when working in a team.”
9. Why should we hire you?
Example answer:
“You should hire me because I am reliable, hardworking and willing to learn. I understand that cleaning requires attention to detail, consistency and responsibility. I would take my duties seriously and make sure the areas assigned to me are maintained to the required standard.”
10. Are you comfortable working early mornings, weekends or shifts?
Example answer:
“Yes. I understand that cleaning operations may require employees to work different shifts depending on the business requirements. I am prepared to work according to the schedule required for the position.”
Cleaner Interview Questions About Safety
What would you do if you saw a dangerous electrical cable while cleaning?
Example answer:
“I would not touch or attempt to repair it myself. I would keep people away from the danger if necessary and report the problem to my supervisor or the appropriate maintenance person.”
What personal protective equipment might you use when cleaning?
Example answer:
“Depending on the task, I may need gloves, protective footwear, an apron, eye protection or other PPE required by the employer. I would always follow the company’s safety requirements.”
Why is hygiene important?
Example answer:
“Good hygiene helps prevent the spread of germs, protects employees and customers and creates a safe and pleasant environment. In places such as kitchens, schools and healthcare environments, proper hygiene is especially important.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there cleaner jobs available in South Africa?
Yes. The supplied Simplify Jobs search results show several cleaning-related opportunities in South Africa, including positions in Gqeberha, Durban and Midrand.
Can I apply for a cleaner job with Matric?
Yes. Some current vacancies specifically require Grade 12/Matric. However, requirements vary by employer, so always check the individual vacancy.
Are cleaner jobs permanent?
Some are permanent and others are contract positions. For example, the supplied listings include a permanent Cleaner position in Midrand and a contract Cleaner position in Gqeberha.
Where can I find cleaner vacancies?
You can search for current cleaner-related vacancies here:
https://jobs.simplify.hr/?query=CLEANER
What skills do I need to become a cleaner?
Important skills include reliability, attention to detail, time management, ability to follow instructions, knowledge of hygiene and safety procedures, teamwork and the ability to work independently.
Do cleaners need experience?
Not every employer has the same requirements. Some vacancies may accept applicants with limited experience, while others specifically look for previous cleaning experience.
What should I put on my CV when applying for a cleaner job?
Highlight any previous cleaning, housekeeping, hospitality, kitchen, office, school, hospital, factory or facilities experience. Also mention relevant skills such as hygiene, cleaning equipment, chemical handling, teamwork and reliability.
Final Thoughts
If you are searching for cleaner vacancies in South Africa in 2026, there are opportunities available across different industries, including education, retail, food services and facilities management.
The current listings include contract and permanent opportunities, so jobseekers should carefully compare the employment type, location, requirements and closing date before applying.
If you meet the requirements, apply as soon as possible and make sure your CV clearly shows your relevant experience and skills.
Nonhlanhla Ndlovu is the founder and publisher of EduFeeds, a South Africa–focused platform that shares verified learnerships, internships, bursaries, and job opportunities for young people and job seekers.
With a strong focus on helping South African youth access real career opportunities, Nonhlanhla researches and verifies programmes from official company sources and public announcements before publication. EduFeeds aims to simplify the application process by providing clear guidance, requirements, and practical tips to help applicants apply with confidence.
Nonhlanhla continues to monitor updates from SETAs, companies, and training providers to ensure information on Edu Feeds remains current and useful. She focuses on publishing timely and accurate opportunity updates for the South African youth employment market.
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