Duties and responsibilities
A facilities manager is responsible for the operation and maintenance of building systems, services and processes that support the core business of an organisation. Their main goal is to ensure that best practices are followed for maximum efficiency and that the most suitable working environment is attained for its employees and their activities. Their typical duties and responsibilities include:
- Preparing documents to put out tenders for contractors
- Project managing, supervising and coordinating the work of contractors
- When required, investigating the suitability of options for new premises
- Calculating and comparing the costs for required goods or services t
- Planning future development in line with strategic business objectives
- Directing, coordinating and planning essential services (e.g., reception, security, mail, cleaning, catering, waste disposal and recycling)
- Ensuring buildings meet health and safety requirements
- Checking contractors complete their work to a satisfactory level
- Responding appropriately to emergencies or urgent issues as they arise and dealing with the consequences
Qualifications
A facilities manager does not need a degree to enter this role. However, degrees in a related field, such as business studies, surveying, management or property, may increase your opportunities. What is most important is suitable experience in management or supervisory roles.
Skills and relevant work experience
As well as relevant experience, facilities managers will need skills such as:
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- Interpersonal skills, as facilities managers will need to build relationships with contractors and staff
- Networking skills, as facilities managers will need to source out the best quality contractors
- Leadership skills, as facilities managers will need to instruct other employees and contractors on the tasks that need doing
- Attention to detail, as facilities managers need to review the work of contractors to the highest standards
- Writing skills, in order to clearly and concisely handle large and complex documents
- Time management skills, to juggle the different tasks
Hours
Most facilities mangers will work full time. They may, however, often find themselves working overtime when deadlines need to be met or emergencies occur.
Salary
According to salary.com the median annual salary for a facilities manager in the United States is $99,287. The bottom 10% can expect to earn less than $72,221 and the highest 10% earn over $126,609 per annum.
Progression
Facilities managers progress from lower level roles. When they get to facility manager level, they will receive on-the-job training to enhance their skills. With the correct experience and skills, facilities managers may progress to area managers, or even regional, sector or director management levels.