Are you looking for a career in facilities management but don't know where to start? With so many roles and responsibilities, having the right skills is essential to success.
In this article, we'll explore the various jobs in facilities management. We'll look at the essential skills needed to excel in them, and the soft skills that will help you stand out. We'll also provide advice from professionals on how to find the right job and discuss the benefits of pursuing a career in this field.
Understanding the various facilities management jobs
Facilities management jobs are everywhere, no matter the industry. A facilities manager is responsible for managing a range of services that support the day-to-day operations of a business. Responsibilities range from maintenance and security to janitorial services and environmental compliance.
There are many career paths within facilities management, such as engineering, operations, finance, human resources, and information technology. Depending on the organization's needs, educational requirements for different roles also vary. Some positions require an undergraduate degree or higher in a related field, while others may only require relevant experience or special certifications.
So how does each job support the facilities management department? Let's look at some easy examples:
Engineering
Engineers are responsible for numerous functions within facilities management. Some of their primary responsibilities include:
- developing and implementing utility plans
- performing system evaluations
- maintaining operational efficiency
- knowledge of structural code requirements
Successful engineers should be excellent at analyzing operational processes, allocating resources, and recommending and implementing improvements.
IT
IT, short for Information Technology, has a critical role in facilities management. While roles in IT don't work directly with the customer, they have a big impact on how the customer experiences the work that's done. Primary responsibilities for IT professionals in facilities management include:
- combining and analyzing data
- building systems for the collection of necessary data
- maintaining info on floor plans, space and energy usage
For facilities managers to make informed decisions, IT roles help by organizing the right data.
Human resources
Human resources is another easy example of a facilities management job to review. Though robots are automating some tasks, facilities management jobs still require a lot of people. Some responsibilities of human resources include:
- learning about critical skills to be successful in facilities management
- finding people that can make the organization better
- implementing programs to keep great talent
As long as people are heavily involved in facilities management jobs, human resources will be vital to the business.
Now that we've seen the value of people in some facilities management jobs, let's look deeper into essential skills for the industry.
Essential skills needed to be successful in facilities management jobs
The path to success in the field of facilities management requires a range of skills and qualifications. Individuals need to have a deep understanding of building systems, components, and equipment. They must also be competent in customer service, communication, and troubleshooting complex matters swiftly and accurately.
Many tasks involve operating machinery such as forklifts or also using industrial cleaners. These tasks require familiarity with instructions & safety procedures for safe operation at all times. With the right training and experience behind them, professionals can make a great career here.
For newcomers to facilities management, it is important to gain the necessary training and certifications. Health & safety regulations are obligatory for any manager or engineering team member. They should be well-versed with fire safety regulations as well as OSHA standards to make sure that their facility is compliant.
Soft skills such as effective communication and problem solving abilities are essential for all successful facilities managers. Quick thinking and coming up with creative solutions can make all the difference between success or failure when managing a facility effectively. A good manager should also be able to anticipate problems before they arise. Lastly, motivating staff so goals are met under budget and on time is invaluable.
Where to find great training for facilities management jobs
Finding the right training for facilities management jobs can be a challenge, but there are plenty of resources available to help you. From online forums and websites to local colleges and universities offering classes and programs, there are plenty of options to explore.
Conferences are huge opportunities to learn more and network with others in the industry as well. Additionally, many employers offer specialized training courses related to facilities management, so it is important to check with them.
When selecting a training program or course for your career in facilities management, make sure it reflects your individual goals and interests. For example, if you want to work in hospital settings, then look for courses that teach healthcare-specific skills, like understanding medical equipment or safety protocols. Similarly, if you are looking for a job in commercial maintenance then choose classes related to building systems such as HVAC or electrical systems.
These various types of training will equip you with the knowledge needed for success in this ever-evolving industry. With the right resources at your disposal, you'll have the tools needed to lead successful projects and build a rewarding career in facilities management. This is a great list highlighting online courses and here is an extensive list of certifications.
The benefits of pursuing a career in facilities management
Pursuing a career in facilities management can be highly rewarding, as there are many benefits to being in this field. From the potential to make a positive impact on the environment and communities to the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology. Facilities managers play an essential role in maintaining buildings and systems as well as streamlining processes for staff and customers.
By gaining experience and knowledge in facilities management, professionals can apply their skills to other industries as well. For example, individuals who understand healthcare administration may be able to transfer their skills into medical office management or hospital administration roles.
The chance to collaborate with experts in the field is also a great perk of pursuing a career in facilities management. By networking with industry leaders, professionals can gain invaluable insight into best practices that will help them succeed both now and in the future. Additionally, they can learn from others who have gone before them and discover new solutions or innovations that could improve their organization's operations.
There are plenty of opportunities for growth through certification programs and other educational opportunities available for those seeking advancement within this field of work. Professionals who carry certifications such as Certified Property Manager (CPM) or Certified Facility Manager (CFM) can gain a leg up. They have greater chances of being promoted or hired by organizations looking for qualified personnel to manage their facilities operations.
Finding the right job in facilities management
Regarding finding the right facilities management job, there are a few strategies that professionals can use to increase their chances of success. Researching job postings is crucial to make sure that the position matches your skillset. Professionals should also reach out to other professionals for advice when looking for jobs. Leaning on the experience of others can have a really positive effect!
Constructing a portfolio of your previous work can also help you stand out. All employers look for candidates with experience and knowledge. It's also important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technology in the field. Continuous learning shows you have an edge over other applicants by being knowledgeable about current practices.
Finally, you can find certification programs or short courses that can equip individuals with specialized skills related to their desired area of expertise. Taking advantage of these opportunities can demonstrate your commitment and dedication towards pursuing a career in facilities management. See our resources in the previous two sections to further your education.
By following these steps, you can be well-prepared when looking for a facilities management job. You can reap all the rewards that come along with this rewarding career path.
Topics: Facilities Management
