Strong demand for window cleaners
Demand for window cleaners is high due to a shortage of workers.
The shortage is caused by:
- high staff turnover, especially in night-shift roles
- low numbers of job applicants, partly due to the work being physically difficult.
According to the Census, 612 window cleaners worked in New Zealand in 2018.
High-rise window cleaners in particular demand
Companies specialising in high-rise buildings often struggle to find window cleaners with rigging qualifications or abseiling experience.
As a result, employers often need to take on trainee high-rise window cleaners and help them to gain relevant qualifications.
Opportunities are seasonal
Demand for window cleaners is usually higher in summer (when it’s dry) than in winter.
Most window cleaners work for cleaning companies
Window cleaners usually work for cleaning companies with five to 30 staff.
Some window cleaners are self-employed.