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Transit Cleaning Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

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Transit Cleaning information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do transit cleaning jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for transit cleaning in Seattle, WA is $18.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.39 and $20.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is transit cleaning?

Transit cleaning refers to the process of cleaning and maintaining vehicles and facilities used for public transportation, such as buses, trains, subways, and transit stations. The goal is to ensure a clean, safe, and hygienic environment for passengers and staff. Duties often include cleaning seats, floors, windows, restrooms, and high-touch surfaces, as well as disposing of trash and replenishing supplies. Transit cleaners play a vital role in reducing the spread of germs and improving passenger experience. This job may require working during off-peak hours or overnight shifts to avoid disrupting transit operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a transit cleaner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Transit Cleaner, you need attention to detail, knowledge of cleaning protocols, and physical stamina, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cleaning equipment, chemical handling, and safety procedures is often required, with some positions preferring certifications in hazardous materials or OSHA guidelines. Reliability, time management, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team are crucial soft skills. These skills ensure sanitary and safe transit environments, contributing to public health and positive rider experiences.

What are some common challenges faced by transit cleaning staff, and how are they typically addressed?

Transit cleaning staff often work in fast-paced environments where maintaining cleanliness standards can be challenging due to high passenger traffic and strict schedules. Common challenges include dealing with hazardous materials, working during off-peak hours, and adapting to changing cleaning protocols. Teams typically address these challenges through thorough safety training, use of protective equipment, and strong communication among team members. Supervisors often provide ongoing support and clear guidelines to ensure cleaning staff can perform their duties efficiently and safely.

What is the difference between Transit Cleaning vs Bus Cleaning?

AspectTransit CleaningBus Cleaning
CredentialsMay require cleaning certifications or trainingOften requires similar certifications or on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentInside transit vehicles like trains, subways, busesInside buses, including passenger and driver areas
Employer & IndustryTransit authorities, transportation companiesPublic and private bus companies
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing transit cleaning services or jobsPeople looking for bus cleaning roles or services

Transit Cleaning and Bus Cleaning are closely related roles focused on maintaining cleanliness inside transportation vehicles. While both require similar skills and certifications, Transit Cleaning often covers a broader range of transit modes like trains and subways, whereas Bus Cleaning specifically targets buses. Understanding these differences helps job seekers and service users find the right cleaning solutions for their needs.

What are popular job titles related to Transit Cleaning jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Transit Cleaning jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Transit Cleaning jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Transit Cleaning jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Infographic showing various Transit Cleaning job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,822 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Transit Facilities Specialist II (Transit Custodian II)

King County

Seattle, WA • On-site

$25.66 - $36.66/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


King County (Washington) rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

200th of 856 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Summary Learn how Metro connects you with what matters *This recruitment is open to all current King County employees and the general public. * King County Metro Transit's Facilities Division has an exciting opportunity for a Transit Facilities Specialist II (Transit Custodian II). The Transit Facilities Specialist II is responsible for performing heavy industrial cleaning in transit bases, maintenance facilities, and other transit properties and structures.

This recruitment may immediately fill up to one (1) Career Service position, and may also be used to establish an eligibility pool to fill future Career Service, as well as Term-Limited Temporary and/or Special Duty Assignment, vacancies that may occur over the next twelve (12) months, until the pool is exhausted, at the discretion of the hiring authority. WAGE INFORMATION Qualified candidates typically start at the mid-point of the established pay range, depending on candidate qualifications. The top step of the pay range is achieved within three (3) years or less through automatic step progression, depending on initial step placement at time of hire.

The pay range for day shift is $25.66 to $36.66 per hour. The mid-point step is currently $32.99 per hour for day shift. This position is eligible for shift differential if assigned to a swing/afternoon or overnight shift

Positions assigned to swing/afternoon shift receive 5% shift differential, and positions assigned to overnight shift receive 7.5% shift differential. WHO MAY APPLY This recruitment is open to all current King County employees and the general public. Please note: Vacancies in the Transit Facilities Specialist II (Custodian II) classification will be filled first by qualified TFD Employees in the Transit Facilities Specialist I (Custodian I) classification

If no current Employees in the Facilities Specialist I (Transit Custodian I) classification apply for or accept the position, Metro will then offer to other qualified candidates, both internal and external to Metro Transit. TO APPLY Required Application Materials: An online King County application, updated with accurate contact information, and relevant work history going back 10 years (or more, if necessary), with all duties, dates of employment, and reasons for leaving explained clearly. Completed supplemental questions.

A resume. Note: A cover letter/letter of interest is highly encouraged, but not required. Any additional attachments will not be considered.

Want to make sure your application materials are as competitive as possible. We highly recommend visiting the King County Workforce Development website for tips and examples on how to make your application materials most effective: King County Workforce Development. Applicants who are unable to apply online should follow the instructions at Application FAQ's- King County.

For more information regarding this recruitment, please contact: Erica Minshull, Talent Advisor for King County Metro Transit Erica.Minshull@KingCounty.gov or 206-477-6059 Job Duties Applying our ACTIVATE values: being Accountable, Collaborative, Timely, and Impactful; how we Value Employees; staying Accessible; building what's Trusted; and acting Equitably, is a daily responsibility and a foundational expectation for all King County employees. As a Transit Facilities Specialist II, you will also: Contain and clean up fuel and/or oil spills. Steam clean and/or pressure-wash drains, trenches, and subsurface maintenance areas

Steam clean and/or pressure-wash restrooms and shop walls, up to 40 feet in height, using various lift equipment and fall protection as appropriate. Clean and sanitize elevators, lunchrooms, and restrooms including tables, chairs, toilets, showers, sinks, walls, and/or offices. Scrub various types of floors, such as concrete, tile, vinyl, granite, and/or marble; spray/buff floors.

Sweep, clear snow/ice, and clean facility perimeters. Set up, take down, and arrange furniture as needed. Dust, wash, and vacuum surfaces; clean glass windows; clean/remove graffiti off walls, windows, and other surfaces.

Empty trash dumpsters; empty trash containers, either using a forklift or manually. Request and stock various types of supplies; stock lunchrooms and restrooms. Safely operate various pieces of equipment, such as vacuums, buffers, carpet cleaners, floors scrubbers, shop vacs, steam cleaners, and/or pressure washers.

Ensure care and proper operation of equipment. Use good judgment and wear proper personal protective equipment (PPE), when necessary. Drive a County vehicle, when necessary.

Respond to sanitization requests, when necessary. Experience, Qualifications, Knowledge, Skills To be considered eligible for this role, applicants must possess these MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: One (1) year or more of recent professional industrial cleaning/janitorial work experience, including the use of motorized floor scrubbers and pressure-washing equipment. Knowledge of basic cleaning techniques in an industrial, shop or heavy maintenance environment.

Knowledge in the proper use and disposal of cleaning chemicals. Effective oral and written communication skills including the ability to understand and follow directions. Skill in reading, following, and safely handling cleaning supplies per manufacturer's instructions.

Demonstrated ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a crew. Ability to perform repetitious job tasks, such as mopping, cleaning toilets, and sweeping. Skill in dealing proactively and sensitively with customers.

Ability to accept direct supervision, follow written or verbal directions. Skill in working with a variety of individuals from diverse backgrounds. Ability to maintain a standardized work pace and skill in performing multiple tasks simultaneously.

Demonstrated ability to have predicable, reliable, and timely attendance. The most competitive applicants will possess these DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS: Three (3) or more years of recent professional industrial cleaning/janitorial work experience, including the use of motorized floor scrubbers and pressure-washing equipment. Necessary Special Requirements: Valid Washington State driver license, with an acceptable driving record.

Out-of-state candidates must obtain a Washington driver license within 30 days of hire. Supplemental Information CLASS CODE / PAY GRADE 9102200 / 16 UNION STATUS This position is represented by Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU), Local 587. SELECTION PROCESS Applications will be screened to determine whether candidates meet the minimum qualifications, as well as for clarity, completeness, and responsiveness to the application instructions above.

Highly competitive applicants may be asked to interview, which may also include a written test and/or practical skills test. Formal offers will be finalized after candidates have successfully completed any necessary pre-employment processes, such as driving record checks, internal record reviews, and/or reference checks, etc. The first six (6) months of employment in a Career Service position are served in a probationary capacity to provide an opportunity to confirm whether the position is a good match between the successful candidate's interests and skills and the ability to perform the requirements of the job.

WORK LOCATION AND SCHEDULE The work location may be assigned to a location within the King County Metro Transit service area, including Seattle, Tukwila, Bellevue, North Seattle, and Renton. This position is typically scheduled full time (40 hours per week), with a typical schedule of 5 days/8 hours per day. Shifts typically include both days and swing/afternoon.

However, because schedules are selected by a seniority-based twice-annual 'shift pick', employees must be available and willing to work any shift (day, swing, or graveyard), weekends, nights, holidays, and call-outs, as well as any of the work locations. This position is not exempt from the provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act and is therefore overtime eligible, with prior supervisory approval. This position is not eligible for telework/remote work.

WORK ENVIRONMENT Work may be performed indoors or outdoors, sometimes in inclement weather. Specific tasks may require the use of a respirator, and therefore position is subject to respirator fit-testing. Additionally, indoor work may include exposure to exhaust and fumes.

When warranted, must be able and willing to wear proper safety equipment and protective clothing as required, including hearing and eye protection. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS This position is required to frequently lift and carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds, and may involve lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 100 pounds with assistance. Frequent walking, reaching, climbing, kneeling, stooping, and safe operation of equipment are also required.

Duties may require working at heights with the use of mechanical lift devises, requiring use of fall protection. SAFTEY RESPONSIBILITIES FOR AN EMPLOYEE Responsible for understanding the Metro Transit Safety Policy and their role in safety. Report all safety concerns.

Follow safety practices and procedures as necessary to maintain a safe work environment and in conformance with applicable regulations, policies, and training. Report safety and security concerns and ideas to supervisors or anonymously through data collection system. KING COUNTY'S VISION, MISSION, AND ACTIVATE VALUES UNITE US.

King County serves residents with a relentless sense of urgency, delivering on commitments with transparency and accountability. We are action-oriented, creative problem solvers who collaborate across roles, engage directly with communities, and challenge the status quo to achieve meaningful impact. As a unified team, we uphold high ethical and stewardship standards, embrace change, stay curious, and continuously improve.

Across all interactions, we listen first, act quickly, and stay aligned as a team to earn and sustain public trust. Learn more about our Vision, Mission, and ACTIVATE Values here and visit our Why work at King County page here. KING COUNTY IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO) EMPLOYER No person is unlawfully excluded from employment opportunities based on sex, race, color, national origin, ethnicity, religious affiliation, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age except by minimum age and retirement provisions, pregnancy, status as a family caregiver, parental status, marital status, military status or status as a veteran who was honorably discharged or who was discharged solely as a result of the person's sexual orientation or gender identity or expression, citizenship or immigration status, genetic information, or other protected class.

However, to the extent that distinction or differential treatment on the basis of citizenship or immigration status is authorized by either federal or state law, regulation, or government contract, it is not an unfair practice. Our EEO policy applies to all employment actions, including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, selection for training, promotion, transfer, demotion, layoff, termination, rates of pay or other forms of compensation. TO APPLY If you are interested in pursuing this position and supporting King County's vision for unified, equitable, and high-performing government, please follow the application instructions carefully.

Provide us with your work history as applicable, ensuring that you provide details that highlight your ability to fulfill the requirements for this position. If you need this announcement in an alternate language or format, or you would like to request accommodation or assistance in the application or assessment process, please contact the recruiter listed in this job announcement. #TradesJobs #GoPublic.


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About King County

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Forbes recently named King County as one of Washington State's best employers. Together, with leadership and our employees, we're changing the way government delivers service and winning national recognition as a model of excellence. Are you ready to make a difference? Come join the team dedicated to serving one of the nation's best places to live, work and play. Guided by our "True North", we are making King County a welcoming community where every person can thrive. We value diversity, inclusion and belonging in our workplace and workforce.

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US

Year founded

1852

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