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What is a Facilities Manager? Skills, Duties, and Salary

What is a Facilities Manager? Skills, Duties, and Salary

Q: 1. Is becoming a facility manager a good job?

"YES!" is a clear response to this query. The sector of facility management is evolving quickly, offering young people incredible prospects. Furthermore, there is an increasing need for skilled and motivated staff as the current pool of facility management professionals ages and retires.

Q: 2. What is the career progression for a facilities manager?

The following positions are usually included in a facilities manager's career progression: Entry-level practical training to acquire the foundations of facilities management Managers in the midlevel: directing a staff, supervising daily operations, and organizing facilities upkeep Leadership: Senior management leads the way in long-term facilities management plans, budgeting, and strategic planning.

Q: 3. Are there professional certifications for facilities managers?

Yes, there are professional certifications for facilities managers: Certified Facility Manager (CFM): Offered by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), validating expertise in facility management. Facility Management Professional (FMP): Also provided by IFMA, focusing on foundational skills and knowledge in facility management practices.

By Manikandan Mohanakrishnan

Updated on Mar 22, 2024 | 6 min read | 1.4k views

Table of Contents

The daily tasks required to make sure a physical environment supports an organization's needs and primary purpose are known as facilities management. A lot of work goes into sustaining an organization's primary operations, particularly when you take into account the wide range of sectors that need facilities management. It can be an office block that is rented out on a single floor of a city skyscraper, a manufacturing company that has one sizable production plant, or a school system that has facilities spread over several areas. Facilities management, or having a facilities manager oversee physical spaces and assets, makes sure they can serve the demands of your organization, no matter what industry you work in.

In this article, I will be talking in detail about what a facilities manager is, his/her roles, how to become one, and salaries.

Who is a Facilities Manager?

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The management of services and procedures that support an organization's main business falls within the purview of facilities managers. They make sure that the most efficient procedures are followed for optimal productivity and that the ideal workspace is created for the company's workers and their operations.

This is a broad sector with a variety of duties that vary according to the size and structure of the company. In particular, you'll be involved with day-to-day operations and strategic planning related to buildings and premises.

What Does a Facilities Manager Do?

A company's physical assets, such as its buildings, grounds, vegetation, machinery, HVAC system, information technology, and lighting, are managed by facility managers. Regulation compliance, safety, security, and other non-physical issues may be included in some of a facility manager's duties.

The facility manager is in charge of all facilities management (FM)-related operations within the organizational structure. They work with other departments to accomplish their main goals and manage the strategic planning associated with these operations. The major objectives of FM duties, which include minimizing waste, boosting productivity, and guaranteeing safety, are maintenance, cleaning, improvement, and business continuity.

The role of facilities manager is explained in detail in ITIL foundation training.

Depending on the industry, a facilities manager's specific responsibilities can change. The supervision of heavy machinery, safety, and mechanical maintenance will be more important in manufacturing processes, whereas ordinary cleaning and maintenance responsibilities would be more distributed in a building management setting.

Hope you understand what facilities managers do; now, let us understand the daily duties of a facilities manager.

What are a Facilities Manager's Daily Duties?

The daily Facilitate manager job duties include:

Inspecting Facilities: Regularly inspecting buildings, equipment, and grounds to identify maintenance needs and safety hazards.
Supervising Staff: Directing and supervising maintenance staff, contractors, and vendors to ensure work is completed efficiently and according to standards.
Managing Budgets: Planning and managing budgets for maintenance, repairs, and renovations, including cost estimation and procurement of materials and services.
Responding to Emergencies: Addressing emergencies such as equipment malfunctions, power outages, or building security issues promptly and effectively.
Implementing Policies: Enforcing safety protocols, building codes, and environmental regulations to maintain compliance and mitigate risks.
Communicating with Stakeholders: Liaising with tenants, building owners, and other stakeholders to address concerns, coordinate maintenance activities, and ensure client

What are the Different Types of Facilities Managers?

Facility managers can specialize in various areas to meet the specific needs of different industries and facilities. Here are some common types of facility managers and the roles and responsibilities of a facilities manager of each type:

Commercial Facility Manager: Oversees the maintenance and operations of commercial buildings such as offices, retail spaces, and shopping centers. Responsibilities include managing tenant relationships, coordinating maintenance services, and ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations.
Healthcare Facility Manager: Manages the maintenance and operations of healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and medical offices. Duties may include ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations, managing medical equipment maintenance, and coordinating with medical staff to maintain a safe and sanitary environment.
Industrial Facility Manager: Responsible for managing the maintenance and operations of industrial facilities such as factories, warehouses, and manufacturing plants. Tasks may include overseeing equipment maintenance, optimizing production processes, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
Educational Facility Manager: Manages the maintenance and operations of educational institutions such as schools, colleges, and universities. Duties may include managing campus facilities, coordinating maintenance projects, and ensuring a conducive learning environment for students and staff.
Hospitality Facility Manager: Oversees the maintenance and operations of hospitality facilities such as hotels, resorts, and restaurants. Responsibilities may include managing guest services, coordinating housekeeping and maintenance activities, and ensuring compliance with hospitality standards and regulations.
Residential Facility Manager: Manages the maintenance and operations of residential buildings such as apartment complexes, condominiums, and housing developments. Duties may include overseeing property maintenance, managing tenant relationships, and ensuring a safe and comfortable living environment.
Government Facility Manager: Responsible for managing the maintenance and operations of government-owned facilities such as government offices, courthouses, and public buildings. Tasks may include overseeing facility security, coordinating maintenance projects, and ensuring compliance with government regulations and policies.

Qualifications and Required Skills

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If you want to know what qualifications you need to be a facilities manager, Read on.

Qualifications and skills required for facility managers vary depending on the industry and type of facility they manage. However, some common qualifications and skills include:

Education: A bachelor's degree in facilities management, business administration, engineering, or a related field is often required. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master's degree or professional certifications.
Certifications: Certifications such as Certified Facility Manager (CFM), Facility Management Professional (FMP), or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) can enhance credentials and demonstrate expertise in the field. Check out IT service management training courses online for a detailed list of courses.
Experience: Previous experience in facility management, property management, construction, or a related field is typically required. Experience in supervisory or managerial roles may also be beneficial.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in computer-aided facility management (CAFM) software, building management systems (BMS), and other relevant technology is essential. Knowledge of facility systems such as HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and fire safety is also important.
Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills are necessary for interacting with tenants, vendors, contractors, and other stakeholders. Facility managers must effectively communicate policies, procedures, and expectations.
Problem-Solving Abilities: Facility managers must be able to identify problems, analyze root causes, and implement effective solutions to address maintenance issues, safety hazards, and operational challenges.
Leadership and Management Skills: Facility managers need leadership skills to effectively lead and motivate teams, delegate tasks, and manage resources. They must also have project management skills to oversee maintenance projects and initiatives.
Organizational Skills: Facility managers must be highly organized to manage multiple tasks, prioritize workload, and meet deadlines. Attention to detail is crucial for maintaining accurate records, budgets, and documentation.
Customer Service Orientation: Facility managers should have a customer-centric mindset and be responsive to the needs and concerns of tenants, clients, and other stakeholders. Providing excellent customer service fosters positive relationships and tenant satisfaction.

Education, Training, and Certifications

Education:

Obtain a bachelor's degree in facilities management, business administration, engineering, or a related field.
Consider pursuing a master's degree or specialized courses for advanced knowledge and expertise.

Training:

Participate in on-the-job training to gain practical experience in facility management tasks and responsibilities.
Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences to stay updated with industry trends and best practices.
Seek opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement through online courses or certifications.

Certifications:

Earn industry-recognized certifications to validate skills and expertise in facility management.
Consider certifications such as Certified Facility Manager (CFM), Facility Management Professional (FMP), or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED).
Stay informed about certification requirements, eligibility criteria, and recertification processes to maintain credentials.

Continuing Education:

Engage in continuous learning and ongoing education to stay current with evolving industry standards and practices.
Participate in continuing education programs offered by professional associations or organizations.
Explore opportunities for career advancement and specialization through advanced certifications or higher education degrees.

Facilities Manager Careers

Now let me explain the job duties of facilities manager per their profile. These roles collectively contribute to effective workforce integration and strategic alignment within the organization.

Facilities Manager:

Oversees all aspects of facility operations, including maintenance, safety, security, and compliance.
Develops and implements facility management strategies to optimize resources and achieve organizational goals.
Manages facility budgets, contracts, and vendor relationships.
Coordinates with internal stakeholders and external partners to address facility needs and requirements.

Salary: $85,034 per year (Source: Glassdoor)

Maintenance Supervisor:

Directs and supervises maintenance staff in performing repairs, inspections, and preventive maintenance tasks.
Plans and schedules maintenance activities to minimize downtime and ensure equipment reliability.
Monitors work orders, inventory levels, and equipment performance to maintain efficient operations.

Salary: $69,139 per year (Source: Glassdoor)

Facilities Coordinator:

Provides administrative support to the facilities management team, including scheduling meetings, managing documentation, and handling inquiries.
Coordinates facility maintenance activities, such as repairs, cleaning, and landscaping, with internal staff and external contractors.
Maintains facility records, databases, and inventory systems to track assets and resources.

Salary: $57,282 per year (Source: Glassdoor)

Space Planner:

Analyzes space utilization and occupancy trends to optimize facility layouts and configurations.
Develops space plans and layouts to accommodate changing business needs and maximize efficiency.
Collaborates with stakeholders to design functional and ergonomic workspaces that enhance productivity and employee satisfaction.

Salary: $67,470 per year (Source: Glassdoor)

Health and Safety Officer:

Implements and enforces health and safety policies, procedures, and regulations to ensure compliance with legal requirements and industry standards.
Conducts risk assessments, safety audits, and inspections to identify hazards and mitigate risks.

Salary: $79,512 per year (Source: Glassdoor)

Environmental Sustainability Manager:

Develops and implements environmental sustainability initiatives to reduce the facility's environmental impact and improve resource efficiency.
Manages energy conservation programs, waste reduction strategies, and green building initiatives.
Monitors and reports on environmental performance metrics, such as energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Salary: $89,209 per year (Source: Glassdoor)

Facilities Manager Salary and Job Growth

Facilities Manager Salary: Top 5 countries

United States: According to salary.com, the average income for a facilities manager in the United States is $100,371.

United Kingdom: The average yearly compensation for a facilities manager in London, UK, is £42,646, according to Glassdoor.

Australia: In Australia, the average annual income for a facilities manager is AUS$116,543, as per Indeed.

Germany: The average annual compensation for a facilities manager in Germany is €82,043

India: As per Indeed, the average salary for facilities managers can range from ₹27,000 per month to ₹75,000 based on experience.

Job Growth:

From 2022 to 2032, the employment of managers of facilities and administrative services is projected to expand by 5%, faster than the average for all occupations. The facilities management sector is expected to generate 350,000 new employments by 2024, up 15-20% from 2023, according to the Economic Times.

Top 10 Companies Hiring Facilities Managers

Source: Glassdoor

S. No	Company Name	Average Salary (USD)
1	Jones Lang LaSalle	$91,811 per year
2	CBRE	$96,164 per year
3	Cushman & Wakefield	$91,439 per year
4	Aramark	$78,451 per year
5	SP+	$80,646 per year
6	AMC Entertainment	$32/ hr
7	Meta	$180,722 per year
8	Sodexo	$78,064 per year
9	DaVita	$95,105 per year
10	US Navy	$92,351 per year

How to Become a Facilities Manager?

By combining education, experience, certifications, and continuous learning, individuals can pave a successful path toward becoming effective Facilities Managers.

Education: Obtain a bachelor's degree in facilities management, business administration, engineering, or related fields to gain foundational knowledge.
Gain Experience: Start with entry-level positions in maintenance, operations, or property management to acquire hands-on experience.
Develop Skills: Hone skills in problem-solving, communication, leadership, and technical proficiency in facility management tools.
Progress Career: Advance by taking on roles with increasing responsibilities, such as facilities coordinator or maintenance supervisor.
Seek Training: Attend workshops, seminars, and certification programs to enhance your knowledge and expertise.
Network: Build professional relationships with industry peers, mentors, and leaders to stay informed about opportunities and trends.
Stay Updated: Keep abreast of industry advancements, regulations, and best practices through continuous learning and professional development.
Obtain Certification: Consider obtaining certifications such as Certified Facility Manager (CFM) or Facility Management Professional (FMP) to validate your skills and credentials.

Conclusion

The potential in facilities management is almost infinite, provided you are prepared to put in a lot of effort and adopt a lifelong learning mindset. Unlike many other professions, facilities management positions are not transferable. Furthermore, there are ample prospects in every region, regardless of size, and across the entire nation. You can work in a wide range of environments, such as residential, manufacturing, government, or retail because facilities management is necessary for every organization that owns or operates a facility. It's worth the expense to give a career in facilities management some thought. If you wish to develop relevant skills, and learn more about what is a facilities manager and how to become one, enroll in KnowledgeHut ITIL foundation training.