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High Rise Window Washer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Window Washer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.95/hr

The Window Washer will join a team of experienced building maintenance unit (BMU) and swing stage ... The High-Rise Window Cleaner's primary focus is the removal of dirt and grime from windows and ...

Utility Technician

Aurora, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $17.30/hr

High rise Window Cleaning * High Rise Dusting * Cleaning of stainless steel and frames utilizing * Light Cleaning * Other duties as assigned Qualification To perform this job successfully, an ...

Utility Technician

Aurora, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $16.30/hr

High rise Window Cleaning * High Rise Dusting * Cleaning of stainless steel and frames utilizing * Light Cleaning * Other duties as assigned Qualification To perform this job successfully, an ...

Utility Technician

Aurora, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $17.30/hr

High rise Window Cleaning * High Rise Dusting * Cleaning of stainless steel and frames utilizing * Light Cleaning * Other duties as assigned Qualification To perform this job successfully, an ...

Utility Technician

Aurora, IL · On-site

$16.30 - $17.30/hr

High rise Window Cleaning * High Rise Dusting * Cleaning of stainless steel and frames utilizing * Light Cleaning * Other duties as assigned Qualification To perform this job successfully, an ...

Utility Technician

Aurora, IL · On-site

$16.80 - $17.30/hr

High rise Window Cleaning * High Rise Dusting * Cleaning of stainless steel and frames utilizing * Light Cleaning * Other duties as assigned Qualification To perform this job successfully, an ...

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High Rise Window Washer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$18

$26

How much do high rise window washer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for high rise window washer in Chicago, IL is $18.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $20.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a window cleaner for skyscrapers?

To become a high-rise window washer, you typically need to be at least 18 years old, complete safety training, and obtain certifications such as OSHA safety standards. Experience with climbing, working at heights, and using specialized equipment like harnesses and scaffolding is essential, along with physical fitness and attention to safety protocols.

What are High Rise Window Washers?

High rise window washers are professionals who clean the exterior windows of tall buildings, often working at significant heights. They use specialized equipment such as harnesses, ropes, and scaffolding to safely access and clean windows that are otherwise difficult to reach. Their work is essential for maintaining the appearance and safety of high-rise structures, and they must adhere to strict safety protocols. Window washers typically receive specialized training and may require certifications to work on very tall buildings.

How much does a skyscraper window cleaner get?

Skyscraper window cleaners typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the buildings they service. They often work with specialized equipment like harnesses and scaffolding and may receive additional pay for hazardous or high-altitude work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a High Rise Window Washer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a High Rise Window Washer, you need physical fitness, a strong sense of balance, and experience working at heights, often supported by a high school diploma and specialized safety training. Familiarity with safety harnesses, rope descent systems, and powered platforms, as well as OSHA fall protection certification, is typically required. Attention to detail, reliability, and strong communication skills are important soft skills for ensuring thorough work and safe teamwork. These skills and qualifications are crucial to maintaining safety standards, preventing accidents, and delivering high-quality service in a hazardous environment.

What are some common challenges faced by high rise window washers and how are they addressed on the job?

High rise window washers often encounter challenges such as working at extreme heights, exposure to changing weather conditions, and ensuring personal safety. These are addressed by rigorous safety training, strict adherence to safety protocols, and the use of specialized equipment like harnesses, ropes, and secure platforms. Teamwork and constant communication are essential, as window washers typically work in pairs or small teams to ensure safety and efficiency. Additionally, experienced supervisors oversee operations to minimize risks and provide support.

How much does a window cleaner for a skyscraper get paid?

High-rise window washers typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $60,000. Experienced workers, especially those with specialized skills or certifications, can earn higher wages, and the job often requires working at heights and using safety equipment.

What is the difference between High Rise Window Washer vs Commercial Window Cleaner?

AspectHigh Rise Window WasherCommercial Window Cleaner
CredentialsSafety training, fall protection certificationBasic safety training, sometimes fall protection
Work EnvironmentSkyscrapers, tall buildings, often outdoors at heightsLow to mid-rise buildings, storefronts, offices
Employer & IndustryConstruction, building maintenance, specialized firmsJanitorial services, building maintenance companies

High Rise Window Washers specialize in cleaning windows on tall buildings, requiring advanced safety certifications and working at significant heights. Commercial Window Cleaners typically work on lower-rise structures and storefronts, with less emphasis on height safety. While both roles involve window cleaning, the primary difference lies in the height and safety requirements of their work environments.

What are the people who clean skyscraper windows called?

People who clean skyscraper windows are called high rise window washers or window cleaners. They typically work at heights using specialized equipment such as harnesses, scaffolding, or suspended platforms, and often require safety training and certifications. Their job involves cleaning exterior windows of tall buildings to maintain visibility and appearance.
What are popular job titles related to High Rise Window Washer jobs in Chicago, IL? For High Rise Window Washer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching High Rise Window Washer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for High Rise Window Washer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various High Rise Window Washer job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,831 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Window Washer

$22.95/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Allied Universal rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 2,514 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 108 rated security


Job description

Overview

Company Overview:

Join Allied Universal Facility Management and Janitorial Services! We're committed to delivering exceptional cleaning, landscaping, and restoration services for commercial facilities. Be part of a welcoming and collaborative team where innovation meets excellence. We offer steady, reliable work in janitorial management, full-time and part-time janitorial roles, maintenance, landscaping, and metal restoration. If you want to make a meaningful impact and build a lasting career, we have opportunities for you. Join us and grow with a leader in the industry!

Job Description

Allied Universal Janitorial Services, an Allied Universal Company, is hiring a Window Washer. The Window Washer will join a team of experienced building maintenance unit (BMU) and swing stage.  The High-Rise Window Cleaner's primary focus is the removal of dirt and grime from windows and glass surfaces using a non-abrasive glass cleaning solution, water, and rubber squeegee blades.  Allied Universal Janitorial Services is a Union signatory, in good standing, of the SEIU Local 1 Window Washers Union. On the job training is provided.

Hiring Now!

Weekly Pay 

Window Washing is hiring for a Full Time

Wage is $22.95 / hour, Monday - Friday

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Remove dirt and grime from windows and glass surfaces using a non-abrasive glass cleaning solution, water, and rubber squeegee blades
  • Use toweling cloths to remove excess water and moisture from windowsills
  • Ensuring all window cleaning and lift equipment are in good working order
  • Operate aerial lift platforms and other lift equipment to reach the windows of high-rise buildings
  • Ensure that the company vehicle is adequately stocked with window cleaning supplies at all times
  • Appropriately clean up after each job to ensure that there is no residue or dirt left behind

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Valid driver's license, if driving a company or customer supplied vehicle
  • No experience required
  • Ability to safely operate aerial lifts, scaffolding, and related equipment
  • Ability to work at different heights
  • Ability to work in all weather conditions

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Prior work experience as a high rise window cleaner

Benefits:

  • Health and Welfare Benefits for Full Time Employees from District Council No 14 after 90 days of employment
  • Nine paid holidays annually
  • 5 Personal Days
  • Enrollment in our District Council No 14, 401 (k) plan
  • Vacation time offered 1 year, 40 hours, 2 years, 80 hours, 10 years, 120 hours and 25 years, 160. Unused vacation is only paid out where required by law
Closing

Allied Universal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, age, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status or relationship/association with a protected veteran, or any other basis or characteristic protected by law. For more information: www.aus.com

If you have difficulty using the online system and require an alternate method to apply or require an accommodation, please contact our local Human Resources department. To find an office near you, please visit: www.aus.com/offices.

Requisition ID2026-1615637Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Allied Universal

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Allied Universal® is a leading security and facility services company. We provide proactive security services and cutting-edge smart technology to deliver evolving, tailored solutions that allow our clients to focus on their core business. Our excellence starts with our local leadership and local presence. Operating in more than 90 countries, our global workforce of approximately 800,000 people. Employees help to deliver our promise globally and locally: keeping people safe so our customers and communities can thrive. As we build the world's best services company, we continue to expand our footprint and infrastructure on a global and local level. In North America, we operate our business under the existing Allied Universal brand, and our international business operates under the G4S brand.

Industry

Investigation and physical security services, chemical manufacturing and real estate

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Ana, CA, US