The role of facilities manager is key for ensuring employee and equipment safety within company facilities, determining and managing policies for facility usage, and ensuring facilities meet legal requirements. Facilities manager responsibilities include:
- Overseeing the maintenance and safety of facilities
- Managing facility budgets and vendor contracts
- Planning and coordinating office moves and space utilization
- Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations
- Managing facility-related projects and improvements
Below is a job description template built specifically for the facilities manager. Feel free to use it and adapt it to your specific needs.
About [Company]
This section convinces candidates to apply for a role at your Company instead of another. Include practical information about the Company, as well as details about its culture and values.
[Company] helps [Target] do [x].
[Company] consists of over [x] employees spanning over [x] countries. Our unified yet diverse culture keeps us continually learning and innovating ourselves and our products.
Our market-leading technology, expertise, and global team are crucial to our success and customer satisfaction, so we deliver the best products on the market.
Why should you be part of [Company] success story?
We envision a world of [x].
We offer [Target] all the tools they need.
There’s never been a more exciting time to join [Company]
About the facilities manager role
Consider whether you need a description of the role or prefer to list duties and responsibilities directly as a bullet-point list.
As our facilities manager in [Location], you’ll play a crucial role in overseeing the operational and maintenance needs of the facility. You understand the impact you’ll have on ensuring the building’s efficient functioning, creating a safe and comfortable work environment for occupants.
Facilities manager responsibilities and daily operations include the following:
- Managing and overseeing facilities operations, including preventative maintenance, repairs, building management, procurement, and upgrades
- Developing and implementing facility policies, procedures, and standards to ensure that building services and operations run smoothly
- Coordinating with various company departments, vendors, and contractors to ensure the timely completion of projects and hired services
- Conducting regular inspections and assessments to pinpoint any facility issues or potential risks and address them as needed
- Forecasting, budgeting, and financial management of allocated resources, including tracking expenses and negotiating contracts
About compensation
The more openly you talk about compensation and benefits, the more honest and attractive your job listing will be. We suggest a brief introduction about the values behind your compensation package, followed by a bullet-point list with the details of what is offered.
- Salary
- Bonuses
- Equity
- Perks
- PTO
- Personal development budget
- Health and wellness budget
- Pension plan
- Insurance contribution
- Off-sites or events
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Facilities Manager Qualifications
- Education requirements include a bachelor’s degree in business administration, information systems management, operation management, or a related field as valuable proof of management skills
- Additional qualifications, such as Certified Facility Manager (CFM), are valued
- [X] years of experience that showcases a strong background in facility management or property management, including experience overseeing operations, facility maintenance and upkeep, and operations management
- Knowledge of building systems and codes, such as [HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire safety regulations, and relevant regulations for health and safety (OSHA Standards)], is essential
- Proficiency in facility management software and tools, such as computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) and facility management software, is beneficial for efficiently completing primary responsibilities, such as planning, tracking, and reporting
Facilities Manager Skills
List the soft skills and personal qualities you are looking for in the perfect candidate.- Leadership skills - in a manager position, you need to have confidence in leading and motivating your team, as well as delegating tasks and exercising decision-making skills that align with the organization’s goals
- Organizational skills and time management - as a facilities manager, you’re expected to prioritize, plan and implement building maintenance activities in a timely manner to prevent dangerous risks or disruption to workflow and facilities manager duties
- Problem-solving skills - it’s important to identify and resolve issues efficiently, using innovative solutions while adopting a rational approach to overcoming challenges
- Communication skills - effective communication and interpersonal skills are a requirement when interacting with team members, stakeholders, and external parties
- Adaptability - as a facility manager, you’ll encounter unexpected situations or changing priorities, and you need to adapt quickly and adjust plans as needed
- Project management skills - you are able to effectively coordinate complex projects with multiple stakeholders, ensuring successful results are delivered consistently
How much does a Facilities Manager make?
The exact salary of a Facilities Manager can vary based on factors such as experience, location, industry, and the size of the facilities managed. Below is a general overview of median salaries for Facilities Managers in different regions.
- North America: In North America, particularly the United States and Canada, Facilities Managers typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $100,000 or more.
- Europe: In Europe, salaries for Facilities Managers vary across countries. In Western European countries, median salaries can range from €50,000 to €80,000 annually.
- Middle East and North Africa: Median salaries in countries like the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, or Saudi Arabia can range from $50,000 to $80,000 annually.
- Asia-Pacific: Facilities Manager salaries in the Asia-Pacific region can vary widely. In countries like Australia, Singapore, or Japan, median wages range from $60,000 to $90,000 or more.
Additional salary-related considerations
While these figures provide a general indication, consider other factors when assessing Facilities Manager salaries:
- Facility size and complexity: Managing larger or more complex facilities may command higher compensation.
- Industry: Salaries may vary based on the industry. Facilities Managers in sectors with specialized facilities or high compliance requirements may receive different compensation.
- Geographic location: Cost of living in different regions can significantly influence the real value of a salary.
- Experience level: More experienced Facilities Managers or those with specialized skills may receive higher salaries.
Individuals considering a career as a Facilities Manager should focus on gaining relevant experience, developing technical and leadership skills, and staying informed about industry best practices to excel in the dynamic field of facilities management.
How to become a Facilities Manager
Becoming a Facilities Manager typically involves a combination of education, practical experience, and the development of key skills. While there isn't a rigid, standardized path to becoming a Facilities Manager, several common steps can guide individuals aspiring to this role.
Common pathways to becoming a Facilities Manager
Practical experience
Gaining hands-on experience in facilities-related roles is crucial for aspiring Facilities Managers. Many professionals start their careers in entry-level facilities positions or related fields, progressively taking on more responsibilities and acquiring management skills.
Management and leadership
Facilities Managers often lead teams and coordinate the efforts of various departments. Developing strong management and leadership skills, including project management, team coordination, and communication, is essential for success in this role.
Networking
Building a professional network within the facilities management community and related industries can provide insights, career advice, and potential job opportunities. Networking with other facilities professionals, attending industry conferences, and participating in facilities management associations contribute to professional growth.
Facilities Manager education and training
Education
A solid educational background in facilities management or a related field is typically beneficial for individuals aspiring to become facilities managers. Many facilities managers hold a bachelor's or master's degree in areas such as:
- Facilities management
- Business administration
- Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil)
- Environmental management
- Construction management
An advanced degree or additional certifications can enhance a facilities manager's qualifications, especially for leadership roles.
Certifications
While not always mandatory, obtaining relevant certifications can enhance a facilities manager's credibility and demonstrate expertise in facilities management. Certifications include:
- Certified Facility Manager (CFM)
- Facility Management Professional (FMP)
- Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification for sustainable facilities
Role-specific skills
Facilities Managers require a very diverse skillset. From construction, renovation, and maintenance initiatives to process optimization and people management, below are some skills that aspiring Facilities Managers may benefit from developing.
- Project management
- Environmental and sustainability training
- Occupational health and safety
- Budgeting and financial management
- Maintenance and operations training
- Real estate and lease management
- Technology and facilities software
- Contract management
- Emergency preparedness and response
Alternative career paths
In some cases, individuals transition into the role of Facilities Manager from different professional backgrounds. Understanding which roles align well with a transition to facilities management can help plan a successful career switch.
Roles that fit well with a transition to Facilities Manager generally fall into these fields:
Building maintenance
Professionals with experience in building maintenance or related trades may transition into facilities management, leveraging their practical knowledge of facility systems and maintenance.
Project management
Individuals with a background in project management, especially those with experience in construction or renovation projects, may find a smooth transition to facilities management roles.
Real Estate management
Individuals with experience in real estate management, including property managers or real estate executives, can seamlessly transition to the Facilities Manager role. Their expertise in property maintenance, lease management, and tenant relations prepares them well for overseeing facilities within an organization.
Engineering
Professionals with a background in engineering, particularly those with expertise in civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering, can contribute valuable technical skills to the role of a Facilities Manager. Their understanding of building systems, energy management, and equipment maintenance aligns well with the technical aspects of facilities management.
Hospitality Management
Professionals from a hospitality management background may excel in creating a positive and well-maintained environment for occupants, managing facility services, and coordinating events within facilities.
What is a facilities manager?
A facilities manager is a professional figure responsible for overseeing the operations, maintenance, and management of a physical facility, such as a building, office space, or complex. Their role involves ensuring the facility's functionality, safety, and efficiency while managing various aspects, including maintenance, security, space planning, and vendor coordination.
How much does a facilities manager make?
The salary of a facilities manager varies based on factors like location, industry, company size, and years of experience. On average, in the United States, a facilities manager can earn between $60,000 to $100,000 per year. Senior-level positions and those in larger organizations might command higher salaries.
What is the difference between a workplace manager and a facilities manager?
While both roles involve managing physical spaces, there are distinctions. A facilities manager focuses on the overall operations and maintenance of a facility, ensuring its functionality and safety. On the other hand, a workplace manager concentrates on creating an optimal working environment that enhances productivity, employee well-being, and company culture. The workplace manager may also be involved in aspects like space utilization and design.
What are the duties and responsibilities of a facilities manager?
The duties and responsibilities of a facilities manager include:
- Overseeing facility operations, maintenance, and repairs
- Managing facility budgets and expenses
- Ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards
- Coordinating security measures and emergency procedures
- Collaborating with vendors for services like cleaning and maintenance
- Planning and managing space allocation and usage
- Handling lease agreements and property management
- Managing building projects and renovations
- Supervising facility staff and contractors
- Implementing sustainability initiatives and energy efficiency measures
- Addressing facility-related issues and providing solutions
