Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of heightened focus on health and sanitation, the role of medical waste biohazard cleaners has become increasingly critical.

As the healthcare sector evolves, the demand for skilled professionals who can efficiently manage and dispose of biohazardous waste grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a medical waste biohazard cleaner?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring professional aiming to grasp the scope of this role,
• A recruitment officer devising the perfect job candidate profile,
• Or simply intrigued by the mechanics of medical waste management,

You’ve landed in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable medical waste biohazard cleaner job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career portals.

Let’s dive right into it.

Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner Duties and Responsibilities

Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaners are responsible for the removal, transportation, and disposal of medical waste, often from healthcare facilities, while adhering to strict regulatory guidelines.

This role involves working with potentially dangerous materials, and therefore requires a strong commitment to safety protocols.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Collection of biohazardous waste from various healthcare facilities
• Safe and secure transport of medical waste to disposal facilities
• Strict adherence to all health and safety regulations and protocols
• Proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to minimize exposure to hazardous materials
• Decontamination and sterilization of work areas and equipment
• Accurate logging and documentation of waste collected and disposed
• Providing customer service to clients and addressing their concerns
• Staying updated with the latest industry regulations and guidelines
• Maintaining cleanliness and orderliness of waste storage and transport areas
• Participating in training and educational opportunities to improve knowledge and skills

 

Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a diligent Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner to ensure our healthcare facilities remain clean, sanitary, and safe.

The Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner will be responsible for the proper disposal of biohazardous waste in compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

Ideal candidates are detail-oriented, dedicated to maintaining high sanitation standards, and adept in adhering to safety protocols.

Experience in hazardous waste management will be beneficial.

 

Responsibilities

• Proper collection and disposal of biohazardous waste following established protocols
• Maintain accurate records of waste disposal in line with regulatory requirements
• Ensuring cleanliness and sanitation of work area
• Adherence to safety and infection control protocols
• Conduct routine inspections of waste storage areas
• Report any safety or biohazard concerns promptly
• Participate in training sessions and workshops on waste management

 

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Previous experience in a similar role or in the medical field is highly desirable
• Knowledge of biohazard waste handling and disposal regulations
• Understanding of infection control and safety protocols
• Ability to work with minimal supervision
• Good physical health and ability to lift heavy weights
• Excellent communication and record-keeping skills

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Training and development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner
• Work Environment: Mostly within healthcare facilities. Protective equipment will be provided. The role requires physical activities such as lifting and moving waste containers.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Facility Manager or Environmental Services Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $45,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner Do?

Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaners, also known as biohazard remediation technicians or crime scene cleaners, are professionals who are specially trained to clean, sanitize, and deodorize areas affected by biohazardous waste.

Their primary role is to handle and dispose of various types of medical waste, such as bodily fluids, blood, and other potentially infectious materials.

This can also include waste produced from healthcare facilities, research institutions, and laboratories.

These professionals ensure that the biohazardous waste is collected, packaged, and disposed of according to local, state, and federal regulations to prevent any potential health risks.

They utilize personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect themselves from potential exposure to harmful materials and pathogens.

They also use specialized cleaning equipment and chemicals to thoroughly clean and disinfect the area.

In addition to cleaning, they may also be responsible for transporting the biohazardous waste to appropriate disposal facilities.

These professionals often work in challenging and traumatic environments, requiring them to be emotionally resilient.

They must also maintain strict confidentiality and respect the privacy of individuals and institutions they serve.

In some cases, they may also be involved in providing education and training to healthcare facilities on proper biohazard waste management and protocols.

 

Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Physical stamina to stand for long periods, lift heavy objects, and perform strenuous cleaning tasks
• Knowledge and understanding of sanitation protocols, hazardous materials, and disease transmission prevention
• Attention to detail to ensure thorough cleaning and decontamination of biohazardous areas
• Strong communication skills to interact with supervisors, coworkers, and occasionally clients, and to understand and follow all safety procedures and regulations
• Ability to work independently or in a team setting, depending on the specific job requirements
• Comfortable wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) for extended periods to prevent exposure to biohazards
• Problem-solving skills to effectively deal with unforeseen issues that may arise during the cleaning process
• Emotional resilience to cope with distressing scenes and high-stress situations
• Technical knowledge to handle and operate specialized cleaning and waste disposal equipment

 

Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for a Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner role may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through an internship, part-time role, or a similar role in the waste management or medical field.

These professionals can also gain valuable experience in roles such as hospital custodian, sanitation worker, or in other healthcare-related roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience have likely honed their skills and knowledge in the proper disposal and management of biohazardous waste.

They are familiar with the regulations and safety procedures associated with handling such materials.

Those with more than 5 years of experience have likely worked in environments with different types of biohazardous waste and varying degrees of danger.

They may have some leadership experience in their background and could be ready for a supervisory or management position within a medical waste disposal team.

In addition to experience, this role requires specific training and certification depending on the region.

This often includes Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) training, Department of Transportation (DOT) training, and other relevant biohazard waste management certifications.

Additionally, Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaners must have strong attention to detail, understand the critical importance of their work, and be prepared to work in potentially hazardous environments.

 

Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner Education and Training Requirements

Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaners typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education as an entry requirement.

However, due to the unique and hazardous nature of their work, intensive job-specific training is required.

Training usually covers the correct procedures for handling and disposal of hazardous medical waste, the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and knowledge of the regulations and standards set by organizations such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Most companies provide this training on-the-job, and it is important that cleaners understand and adhere to all safety protocols to minimize the risk of infection or injury.

Furthermore, they should complete courses on bloodborne pathogens and hazardous communication.

Certification in these areas, though not always compulsory, is highly recommended and can improve job prospects.

Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaners also need to possess a valid driver’s license, and in some cases, a commercial driver’s license might be required, depending on the size of the disposal vehicle.

Continuing education is also essential in this field, as guidelines for handling medical waste can change over time.

This might include regular refresher courses, ongoing training sessions, or additional certifications.

 

Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner Salary Expectations

The average wage for a Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner is approximately $20.00 (USD) per hour.

The annual salary for this job role typically ranges from $25,000 to $45,000 (USD).

However, actual earnings may vary depending on experience, specialization, location, and the employing company.

In some cases, overtime and hazard pay may significantly increase these earnings.

 

Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner need?

Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaners need strong attention to detail to ensure they effectively clean all hazardous materials without leaving any traces.

They should have physical stamina and strength, as the role often involves heavy lifting and wearing protective equipment.

They should have a robust understanding of safety protocols and regulations related to biohazard waste handling and disposal.

Communication skills are also essential as they need to liaise with healthcare professionals and other team members.

 

Do Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaners need specific qualifications?

While a degree is not typically required, a high school diploma or GED is usually necessary.

Some states require Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaners to be licensed or certified in handling and disposing of medical waste.

Most of the training happens on the job, where cleaners learn about safety procedures, the use of protective gear, and how to properly sterilize areas.

 

What should you look for in a Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner resume?

A good resume for this position should highlight past experience in sanitation, cleaning, or waste disposal.

Look for knowledge of OSHA regulations, biohazard cleaning procedures, and use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Certifications in biohazard cleanup or hazardous materials handling can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner?

A good Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner should have a strong commitment to safety and maintaining a clean environment.

They should be physically fit and able to perform demanding tasks.

They also need to be detail-oriented to ensure that all biohazardous materials are properly cleaned up.

A high level of integrity and professionalism is also required due to the sensitive nature of the work.

 

Is it difficult to hire Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaners?

Hiring Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaners can be challenging due to the physically demanding and potentially dangerous nature of the work.

It can be difficult to find individuals who are willing and able to perform the necessary tasks.

Offering competitive wages, clear safety guidelines, and thorough training can make the position more attractive to potential candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we revealed the nitty-gritty details about being a Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner.

And guess what?

It’s not just about cleaning up.

It’s about safeguarding public health, one biohazard bag at a time.

With our comprehensive Medical Waste Biohazard Cleaner job description template and true-to-life examples, you’re prepared to embark on this career path.

But why not go a step further?

Explore more with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for precision-crafted job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every biohazard bag you dispose of contributes to a healthier community.

Let’s create a safer future. Together.

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