Facilities Manager
What is a facilities manager?
A facilities manager is someone who oversees the maintenance, operation, and management of buildings and facilities.
What does a facilities manager do?
Usually, a facilities manager does the following:
- Manages building maintenance, including coordinating repairs, inspections, and renovations
- Ensures that buildings meet health and safety regulations
- Manages facility budgets and tracks expenses
- Oversees cleaning and security services
- Manages contracts and relationships with vendors and suppliers
- Coordinates moves and relocations within the facility
What does the day-to-day life of a facilities manager look like?
A facilities manager usually works between 9am and 5pm, though this may vary depending on the organization and specific facility. The typical tasks they might do include:
- Conducting facility inspections and addressing any maintenance issues
- Meeting with vendors and contractors to discuss projects and negotiate contracts
- Reviewing and approving expenses and invoices related to facility operations
- Collaborating with other departments to ensure the facility meets their needs
- Monitoring and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations
- Updating facility policies and procedures as needed
Where does a facilities manager work?
Facilities managers work in a variety of settings, including:
- Office buildings
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Educational institutions
- Government buildings
- Manufacturing plants
- Shopping malls and retail centers
Facilities managers can be employed directly by the organization or work for facility management companies. They can also work as consultants or be self-employed.
What tools/software/hardware does a facilities manager use?
A facilities manager may use a variety of tools and software, including:
- Computer software for managing maintenance requests and tracking expenses
- Communication tools like email, phone, and video conferencing
- Building automation systems for monitoring and controlling facility operations
- Maintenance equipment like tools, safety gear, and inspection devices
What do I need to become a facilities manager?
There are several ways to become a facilities manager, including:
- Bachelor's degree: Many facilities managers have a degree in facilities management, business administration, or a related field. This can provide a strong foundation of knowledge and skills.
- Experience in related roles: Some facilities managers start in entry-level positions within the facilities management field and gain experience and expertise over time.
- Professional certifications: There are professional certifications available for facilities managers, such as Certified Facility Manager (CFM) or Facilities Management Professional (FMP). These certifications can demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to the field.
What career paths are available?
There are several career paths available to you as a facilities manager, including:
- Senior Facilities Manager: With experience and additional responsibilities, you can advance to a senior facilities management role, overseeing multiple facilities or larger-scale operations.
- Director of Facilities: As a director of facilities, you would have strategic and managerial responsibilities for an organization's overall facility operations.
- Facilities Consultant: You could become a consultant and provide expert advice and guidance to organizations seeking to improve their facility management processes.
What jobs are similar to a facilities manager?
- Property Manager: Managing and overseeing the operations of residential or commercial properties.
- Operations Manager: Overseeing the overall operations and efficiency of an organization.
- Project Manager: Leading and managing projects, including construction or renovation projects.
What made you want to become a facilities manager?
How did you get your first facilities manager job?
What was the one thing that surprised you the most about being a facilities manager?
Are you a facilities manager? We want you to share your experiences with those looking to start or change their careers to facilities management. If you're interested, contact us at mail@calumchilds.com.