What is a building facilities manager job?
A building facilities manager job involves overseeing and managing the maintenance, operations, and safety of a building or facility. This role is crucial in ensuring that the facility runs smoothly and efficiently. Building facilities managers are responsible for a wide range of tasks, including managing maintenance staff, coordinating repairs and renovations, ensuring compliance with regulations and safety standards, and developing and implementing facility management strategies. They play a vital role in creating a conducive and well-maintained environment for occupants and visitors.
What do building facilities managers usually do in this position?
In a building facilities manager position, the responsibilities can vary depending on the size and complexity of the facility. However, there are several common tasks that are typically associated with this role. Building facilities managers are responsible for conducting regular inspections to identify any maintenance or safety issues. They coordinate and oversee repairs and maintenance activities, ensuring that they are completed in a timely manner. They also manage budgets and resources, ensuring that the facility operates within financial constraints. Additionally, building facilities managers are involved in developing and implementing facility management plans, including emergency response procedures and sustainability initiatives. They may also be responsible for managing vendor relationships, negotiating contracts, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
Top 5 skills required for a building facilities manager position:
- 1. Strong organizational skills: Building facilities managers need to effectively manage multiple tasks, prioritize responsibilities, and coordinate resources.
- 2. Excellent communication skills: They must be able to effectively communicate with a variety of stakeholders, including staff, contractors, and tenants.
- 3. Knowledge of building systems and maintenance: A solid understanding of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and other building systems is essential for identifying and resolving maintenance issues.
- 4. Budgeting and financial management: Building facilities managers must be adept at managing budgets, allocating resources effectively, and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
- 5. Leadership and team management: They should possess strong leadership skills to effectively manage maintenance staff and coordinate activities.
How to become a building facilities manager?
To become a building facilities manager, a combination of education, experience, and specific skills is typically required. Many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in facilities management, business administration, engineering, or a related field. Some positions may also require professional certifications, such as the Certified Facility Manager (CFM) credential. Gaining experience in facility management or a related field through internships or entry-level positions can also be beneficial. Developing strong skills in areas such as project management, communication, and technical knowledge of building systems is crucial. Continuous learning and staying updated with industry trends and regulations are also important for career growth in this field.
Average salary for building facilities managers:
The average salary for building facilities managers can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and the size of the facility. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for facilities managers was $98,890 as of May 2020. However, salaries can range from around $60,000 to over $140,000 per year, with higher salaries typically found in larger metropolitan areas and in industries such as healthcare and manufacturing.
Roles and types of building facilities manager positions:
Building facilities manager positions can vary depending on the type and size of the facility. Some common roles and types include:
- Facilities Manager: Overseeing the overall management and operations of a facility, including maintenance, security, and safety.
- Property Manager: Managing and maintaining commercial or residential properties, including leasing, tenant relations, and property maintenance.
- Maintenance Manager: Focusing primarily on maintenance activities, including planning and coordinating repairs, inspections, and preventative maintenance.
- Operations Manager: Handling the day-to-day operations of a facility, ensuring smooth functioning and efficiency.
- Sustainability Manager: Implementing and managing sustainability initiatives and programs to reduce the environmental impact of a facility.
Locations with the most popular building facilities manager jobs in the USA:
Building facilities manager jobs can be found throughout the United States, but certain locations have a higher demand for these professionals. Some of the popular locations for building facilities manager jobs in the USA include:
- New York, NY
- Los Angeles, CA
- Chicago, IL
- Houston, TX
- Atlanta, GA
- Washington, D.C.
- Boston, MA
- San Francisco, CA
- Dallas, TX
- Seattle, WA
What are the typical tools used by building facilities managers?
Building facilities managers utilize a variety of tools and technologies to effectively perform their duties. Some common tools include:
- Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS): These software programs help manage and track maintenance activities, work orders, and asset management.
- Energy Management Systems (EMS): These systems allow for monitoring and optimizing energy usage within a facility, contributing to cost savings and sustainability.
- Building Automation Systems (BAS): These systems control and monitor various building systems, such as HVAC, lighting, and security, to ensure efficient operations.
- Mobile Apps: Facilities managers often use mobile apps to access important information, communicate with staff, and perform on-site inspections.
- Vendor Management Systems: These platforms assist in managing vendor relationships, tracking contracts, and ensuring timely and quality services.
In conclusion,
Building facilities manager jobs are vital for the efficient and safe operation of facilities. These professionals oversee maintenance, operations, and safety, ensuring that buildings or facilities are well-maintained and meet regulatory requirements. Strong organizational skills, excellent communication abilities, knowledge of building systems, budgeting expertise, and leadership qualities are essential for success in this field. The average salary for building facilities managers can vary based on factors such as location and experience. Various types of building facilities manager positions exist, and popular job locations in the USA include major metropolitan areas. Building facilities managers utilize tools such as CMMS, EMS, BAS, mobile apps, and vendor management systems to effectively carry out their responsibilities.