How to Become a Facility Maintenance Manager (Juggle Jobs with Joy)
If you’ve ever envisioned managing a facility or pondered about the requisites to become a Facility Maintenance Manager, you’re at the right spot.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the PRECISE steps you need to embark on your career as a Facility Maintenance Manager. We’ll discuss:
- The skills you require.
- The education that can facilitate your journey.
- How to secure a job as a Facility Maintenance Manager.
So, whether you’re new to facility maintenance or a seasoned professional looking to elevate your career, stay tuned.
We’re about to unravel the roadmap to become a Facility Maintenance Manager.
Let’s get rolling!
Steps to Become a Facility Maintenance Manager
Step 1: Obtain High School Diploma or Equivalent
Obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent is the first step towards pursuing a career as a Facility Maintenance Manager.
This role often involves managing complex systems and facilities, and a basic level of education is essential for understanding fundamental concepts related to the job.
During high school, it’s beneficial to focus on subjects such as mathematics, science and technical education.
These subjects will provide a strong foundation for the mechanical and technical knowledge needed in facility maintenance.
Alongside this, developing strong problem-solving, communication and leadership skills during this time can also be incredibly beneficial in preparing for the role.
If possible, gaining some hands-on experience through internships or part-time jobs related to facility maintenance can also be advantageous.
This can provide you with a practical understanding of the field and help you decide whether this career path is right for you.
After completing high school, you might consider furthering your education by enrolling in a vocational or technical school, where you can obtain certifications related to facility management and maintenance.
Alternatively, you may decide to directly enter the workforce and gain experience on the job.
Regardless of the path you choose, the knowledge and skills you gain during this time will be fundamental in your journey to becoming a Facility Maintenance Manager.
Step 2: Gain Experience in Maintenance and Repair Work
After completing your basic educational qualification, it is essential to gain hands-on experience in maintenance and repair work.
This experience can be obtained by working as a maintenance technician, plumber, electrician, or other related roles.
This experience helps in understanding the nuances of facility maintenance, including troubleshooting, safety protocols, equipment operation, and other technical aspects of managing a facility.
Starting off as a front-line worker will give you a bottom-up perspective of the facility maintenance tasks and will help you understand the challenges faced by the team.
This experience will be valuable later when you become a manager, as it will allow you to make more informed decisions and guide your team more effectively.
While gaining experience, it’s also important to learn about various mechanical systems such as HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems that are commonly found in facilities.
Additionally, understanding the basics of building codes and regulations is also crucial.
Remember, in this field, the more practical knowledge and skills you have, the better equipped you’ll be to oversee a variety of maintenance and repair tasks.
This step might take several years, but it is critical for your long-term career development as a Facility Maintenance Manager.
Step 3: Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Facility Management or Related Field
The pursuit of a role as a Facility Maintenance Manager often begins with obtaining a bachelor’s degree in facility management or a related field, such as business management, engineering, or construction management.
A degree program in these fields can provide you with the necessary knowledge base to understand the operations of a facility and its maintenance needs.
Courses commonly found in these programs include those in property management, business law, financial management, and principles of management.
Such a curriculum provides a well-rounded education in the business, technical and managerial aspects of facility management.
In addition, practical experience is crucial.
Many programs incorporate internships or cooperative education experiences, where students work part-time in a facility management role while attending classes.
These real-world experiences can be invaluable in gaining practical knowledge and establishing professional connections in the industry.
Upon completion of your degree, you will have a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of running and maintaining a facility, including managing staff, creating maintenance schedules, adhering to safety regulations, and managing budgets.
This education provides a strong foundation to pursue your career as a Facility Maintenance Manager.
Step 4: Gain Practical Experience in a Supervisory Role
In order to excel as a Facility Maintenance Manager, having practical experience in a supervisory role is crucial.
This can be achieved through years of working in maintenance or a related field where you can gradually rise to a position of leadership.
You may start as a maintenance technician or engineer and progressively take on more responsibilities, which can include supervising other workers, managing projects, and overseeing operational systems.
This experience is invaluable in building the necessary skills for managing maintenance facilities.
It allows you to understand the intricacies of maintenance work, coordination among teams, dealing with unexpected issues, and balancing various tasks.
You will also learn about quality control, safety regulations, and compliance issues, which are critical aspects of managing a facility.
Practical experience in a supervisory role also helps you develop strong interpersonal and communication skills as you will be required to direct your team, address their concerns, and communicate with clients or upper management.
It’s also a good opportunity to gain experience in budget management and resource allocation.
Seeking out mentorship from a current or previous Facility Maintenance Manager or enrolling in leadership training programs can also enrich your supervisory skills.
Combining this experience with your education will better prepare you for the complex tasks that come with being a Facility Maintenance Manager.
Step 5: Learn Essential Software for Facility Maintenance Management
Facility Maintenance Managers often rely on certain software tools to track work orders, manage assets, and oversee maintenance operations.
Therefore, gaining proficiency in these tools can be a valuable skill to have.
Start by familiarizing yourself with Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) software.
This software is widely used for organizing, planning, tracking, and managing maintenance operations.
It can help you keep a record of all assets in the facility, track work orders, and manage preventive maintenance schedules.
Other software tools you may encounter include Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, which allows for better visualization and management of physical and functional characteristics of facilities, and Integrated Workplace Management Systems (IWMS), which consolidates multiple functions into one system.
To learn these systems, you can opt for online tutorials or training courses, some of which might be provided by the software developers themselves.
You can also practice using trial versions of these software tools or ask your employer if they offer any in-house training.
Apart from the technical aspect, you should also learn how to analyze and interpret the data these software tools provide.
This can help you make better decisions regarding the facility’s maintenance and management.
Remember, the goal is not just to learn how to use these tools, but to understand how they can make your job easier and more efficient.
Step 6: Get Certified as a Facility Manager
Certifications can bolster your credibility and demonstrate your commitment to the profession.
There are several certifications available for aspiring Facility Maintenance Managers.
These include the Certified Facility Manager (CFM) designation offered by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) or the Facility Management Professional (FMP) and Sustainability Facility Professional (SFP) certificates.
These certifications are obtained by passing exams that cover a wide range of facility management topics such as operations and maintenance, project management, environmental stewardship and sustainability, and communication.
Before you can take these exams, you must meet certain educational and work experience requirements.
For instance, to qualify for the CFM exam, you must have a combination of facility management work experience and education.
This could be a bachelor’s degree and three years of related work experience or, without a degree, an additional five years of experience.
After getting certified, you need to maintain the certification by earning continuing education credits, which ensures that your knowledge and skills stay current in the rapidly evolving field of facility management.
Remember, although certification is not always a prerequisite for landing a job, it can give you a competitive advantage in the job market and potentially lead to higher salaries and more opportunities for advancement.
Step 7: Stay Updated with Building Regulations and Safety Codes
As a Facility Maintenance Manager, it’s crucial that you stay updated with the latest building regulations and safety codes.
These rules and regulations often change with changes in government policies, environmental concerns, and advancements in technology.
Being well-versed with these regulations is not just about compliance, but also about ensuring a safe, efficient, and conducive environment for everyone using the facilities.
As a manager, you will be responsible for ensuring that your facility meets all local, state, and federal building codes, fire codes, and environmental regulations.
Regularly attending workshops, seminars, and certification programs will help you keep up-to-date with the changes.
You can also subscribe to professional journals, newsletters, and industry publications that provide updates on these matters.
Joining professional bodies and associations can also help you network with other professionals in the field and share knowledge and best practices.
Additionally, it’s important to maintain a good relationship with inspectors and other regulators, as they can provide timely advice and guidance on how best to meet or exceed regulations.
Remember, staying updated with building regulations and safety codes is not just a one-time effort, but a continuous process throughout your career as a Facility Maintenance Manager.
Step 8: Develop Strong Management and Leadership Skills
As a Facility Maintenance Manager, it is critical to have excellent management and leadership skills.
These skills will help you oversee all aspects of maintenance operations, direct your team effectively, and ensure that the facility is functioning at its best.
You can gain management experience in several ways.
If you are already working within the facility maintenance industry, aim for supervisory roles that allow you to lead a team and manage projects.
This could be as a supervisor or team lead, where you’ll learn how to delegate tasks, manage schedules, and handle conflicts that arise among your team.
Another way to develop leadership skills is through formal education or training programs.
Many programs focus on management and leadership within the context of facility maintenance and will provide you with the tools and knowledge to lead effectively.
These may include courses in project management, human resources, strategic planning, and organizational behavior.
Additionally, consider attending leadership seminars or workshops, reading books on the subject, or finding a mentor who is a successful leader in your industry.
These experiences can provide you with valuable insights into successful leadership strategies and how to apply them in your role.
Remember, great leaders are not just born; they are made.
It requires continuous learning and practice.
Start developing these skills as early as possible in your career to prepare yourself for the responsibilities of a Facility Maintenance Manager.
Step 9: Network with Other Facility Maintenance Managers
Building strong relationships with other Facility Maintenance Managers can greatly enhance your career.
Networking can open up job opportunities, provide insights into the industry trends and help you gain valuable advice from experienced professionals.
You can start by joining professional organizations for Facility Maintenance Managers, such as the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) or the Association for Facility Engineering (AFE).
These organizations often host conferences, seminars and online forums where you can interact with other professionals in your field.
Consider attending local meetings and events related to facility maintenance.
This could include workshops, trade shows, or networking events.
Here, you can meet other managers, vendors, and professionals who can offer different perspectives on the field.
Don’t forget to leverage social media platforms such as LinkedIn. Join groups related to facility management and actively participate in discussions.
Reach out to other professionals for informational interviews or mentoring.
Networking isn’t just about meeting new people, it’s about maintaining relationships.
Remember to follow up on the contacts you make and keep in touch.
These relationships can be invaluable as you progress in your career.
Step 10: Continually Improve and Update Your Skills and Knowledge
In the ever-evolving field of facility management, it is crucial for a Facility Maintenance Manager to continuously enhance and update their skills and knowledge.
This can be done by attending industry-specific training programs, seminars, and workshops that provide information about the latest technologies and methodologies in facility management.
For instance, you might want to learn about the most recent advancements in energy efficiency technologies, sustainable practices or new health and safety regulations.
This not only helps you stay ahead of the curve but also ensures you can provide the best possible service to your organization.
You should also consider gaining additional certifications relevant to your job role.
Certifications such as Certified Facility Manager (CFM), Facilities Management Professional (FMP), or Sustainability Facility Professional (SFP) can further validate your expertise and commitment to the field.
Keeping up with industry publications and joining professional organizations can also provide opportunities for networking, professional development, and staying informed about trends and changes in the industry.
Remember, the goal is to ensure the smooth operation of the facilities under your care, and staying updated with the latest industry practices will enable you to achieve this more effectively.
Step 11: Apply for Facility Maintenance Manager Positions
After acquiring the necessary skills, experience, and qualifications, the next step to becoming a Facility Maintenance Manager is to start applying for available positions in this role.
Look for job openings in different sectors such as hospitality, education, healthcare, and corporate settings, as facility maintenance management is a universal need.
Pay attention to the job requirements and tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience, competencies, and accomplishments.
Make sure to emphasize your managerial experience, knowledge about building systems, proficiency in managing maintenance tasks, and commitment to safety regulations.
LinkedIn, job boards, and company websites can be effective resources for finding job openings.
Networking can also play a crucial role in your job hunt.
Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and leverage your connections to learn about potential job opportunities.
Prepare for interviews by reviewing common questions for facility maintenance manager positions, and be ready to discuss specific examples of how you handled maintenance issues, led a team, or improved facility processes.
Remember that this process can take some time, so be patient and persistent.
Continue improving your skills and stay updated on industry trends while you search for the right job.
Facility Maintenance Manager Roles and Responsibilities
A Facility Maintenance Manager is accountable for the maintenance and preservation of an organization’s buildings, ensuring that they meet safety and health standards and that facilities are in optimal working condition.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Building Maintenance and Repair
- Inspect building structures and systems regularly to determine need for repairs or renovations.
- Oversee all installations, repairs and upkeep operations of an organization’s facilities.
- Manage maintenance of equipment and machinery.
Preventive Maintenance
- Develop and implement maintenance procedures and ensure implementation.
- Carry out inspections of the facilities to identify and resolve issues.
- Plan and manage all repair and installation activities.
Vendor and Contractor Management
- Manage relationships with contractors and service providers.
- Maintain vendor contracts and ensure vendors meet quality expectations.
- Oversee and approve equipment purchases and expenditure.
Safety and Compliance
- Ensure that all works are carried out in a manner that is compliant with relevant regulations.
- Monitor adherence to health and safety policies.
- Guarantee the safety and cleanliness of the facilities at all times.
Staff Supervision
- Manage and lead maintenance technicians, janitors, and contractors.
- Organize team workloads and ensure staff members are adequately trained.
Budgeting and Cost Control
- Prepare and track maintenance budget.
- Plan and monitor expenditures.
- Identify cost-saving opportunities.
Documentation
- Maintain facility records and ensure they are organized and readily accessible.
- Document all maintenance and repair work performed.
Energy Management
- Monitor utilities consumption and strive to minimize costs.
- Implement energy-saving and sustainable practices.
Emergency Preparedness
- Develop and implement emergency procedures.
- Coordinate emergency response or crisis management activities.
Communication
- Communicate with stakeholders regarding ongoing maintenance activities.
- Handle queries and complaints about maintenance issues.
Continuous Learning
- Keep abreast of advancements and best practices in facility management.
- Attend educational seminars and workshops, and read relevant publications.
What Does a Facility Maintenance Manager Do?
Facility Maintenance Managers are responsible for ensuring that the buildings and services meet the needs of the people that work in them.
They are accountable for services such as cleaning, security and parking, to make sure the surrounding environment is in a suitable condition to work.
They oversee the upkeep of equipment and supplies, ensure the buildings are clean, well-maintained and safe.
They also plan and manage projects, handle budgets, and ensure staff are adequately trained.
Facility Maintenance Managers carry out regular inspections to determine areas that need attention and then follow up to ensure that these issues are taken care of.
Their job also includes ensuring compliance with health and safety standards and building codes.
They coordinate and plan for renovations, refurbishments, office moves and more.
This can involve coordinating with external contractors, as well as internal stakeholders.
They are also responsible for managing emergencies.
For example, if a fire or flood occurs, the Facility Maintenance Manager will coordinate the response and may also be responsible for implementing preventative measures to avoid future emergencies.
Essential Facility Maintenance Manager Skills
- Maintenance Knowledge: Facility Maintenance Managers must have a broad understanding of various aspects of building maintenance, including electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems. Understanding of HVAC, landscaping, and safety protocols are also essential.
- Problem-solving: Just like software engineers, Facility Maintenance Managers need strong problem-solving skills. They must be able to identify issues within the facility and provide effective and efficient solutions.
- Planning and Organization: A Facility Maintenance Manager is responsible for planning and executing maintenance schedules, coordinating with service providers, and managing work orders. Effective planning and organizational skills are vital.
- Management Skills: Leading a team of maintenance workers requires strong leadership and management skills. This includes resource allocation, managing performance, training staff, and promoting team unity.
- Communication: Clear and effective communication is crucial in this role. Facility Maintenance Managers must coordinate with various departments, vendors, contractors, and their team. They should be capable of conveying complex maintenance information in understandable terms.
- Technical Proficiency: While not coding, a Facility Maintenance Manager should be comfortable with technology. They often use Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) to track work orders, manage assets, and analyze maintenance data.
- Project Management: Overseeing complex maintenance projects requires project management skills. This includes task prioritization, time management, risk management, and ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.
- Safety Regulations: A deep understanding of health and safety regulations is essential. They are responsible for ensuring the facility complies with local and federal safety standards and for creating a safe working environment.
- Financial Acumen: They often control a maintenance budget, so understanding financial principles and being able to plan and manage costs effectively is important.
- Vendor Management: Facility Maintenance Managers often work with various vendors and contractors. They need to negotiate contracts, monitor vendor performance, and ensure services are delivered as agreed.
- Customer Service: They often interact with employees and other stakeholders in the facility. A focus on customer service, including addressing complaints and ensuring satisfaction with maintenance work, is crucial.
- Physical Stamina: The job often involves physical labor, including lifting heavy items, climbing ladders, or working in uncomfortable positions. Good physical health and endurance are important.
- Adaptability: Facilities can face a wide range of maintenance issues. Being adaptable and able to handle unexpected issues or emergencies is a key skill for Facility Maintenance Managers.
Facility Maintenance Manager Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Maintenance Technician
Your career path usually starts as a Maintenance Technician.
In this role, you will gain hands-on experience in maintaining and repairing various types of equipment and facilities.
You will work under the supervision of a senior technician or maintenance manager.
Your success in this role depends on the following:
- Technical Knowledge: Gain a good understanding of maintenance techniques and principles.
- Hands-On Experience: Accumulate experience in using tools, equipment, and in diagnosing and repairing problems.
- Safety Awareness: Understand and adhere to safety policies and procedures.
The Ascent: Senior Maintenance Technician
With experience, you can progress to the role of a Senior Maintenance Technician.
Here, you’ll take on more complex maintenance tasks and may supervise junior technicians.
Here’s how to succeed in this role:
- Problem Solving: Develop your problem-solving skills by tackling complicated maintenance problems.
- Leadership: Start to develop your leadership skills by guiding and mentoring less experienced colleagues.
- Technical Expertise: Deepen your knowledge in specific areas of maintenance and repair.
Reaching New Heights: Maintenance Supervisor
The next step in your career path could be a Maintenance Supervisor.
You’ll be responsible for planning and overseeing the work of maintenance staff and ensuring the efficient operation of facilities.
To excel in this role:
- Management Skills: Develop your abilities to schedule work, manage a team, and coordinate with other departments.
- Strategic Planning: Learn how to plan maintenance tasks strategically to minimize downtime.
- Communication: Improve your communication skills to effectively liaise between staff, management, and external contractors.
Beyond the Horizon: Facility Maintenance Manager
As you gain more experience and expertise, you can aspire to become a Facility Maintenance Manager.
In this role, you are responsible for ensuring all the facilities in your charge are maintained in a safe and efficient manner.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Operational Management: Learn to manage budgets, oversee maintenance projects, and implement maintenance strategies.
- Team Leadership: Develop your leadership skills to build strong, effective teams.
- Continuous Improvement: Focus on introducing new procedures or technologies that enhance maintenance efficiency.
Pinnacle of Success: Director of Facilities
At the pinnacle of your career, you may become the Director of Facilities.
Here, you’ll oversee all facility maintenance activities across multiple sites or a large organization.
You’ll need to make critical decisions about maintenance policies, budgets, and staff, and will be responsible for the overall operational efficiency of the facilities you oversee.
Facility Maintenance Manager Salary
Entry-Level Facility Maintenance Manager
- Median Salary: $45,000 – $60,000 per year
- Entry-level Facility Maintenance Managers typically have 0-2 years of experience and may hold a degree or certification in facility management, business administration, or a related field.
Mid-Level Facility Maintenance Manager
- Median Salary: $60,000 – $80,000 per year
- Mid-level managers have 2-5 years of experience and often take on more complex responsibilities in the maintenance and operation of the building, including managing teams and dealing with contractors.
Senior Facility Maintenance Manager
- Median Salary: $80,000 – $105,000 per year
- Senior managers possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for overseeing all maintenance operations, developing maintenance policies, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
Director of Facility Maintenance
- Median Salary: $105,000 – $140,000+ per year
- This role requires significant experience and often involves strategic planning for facility maintenance, including budgeting, staff training, and interfacing with top management.
Vice President of Facility Maintenance
- Median Salary: $140,000 – $200,000+ per year
- This high-level position requires extensive experience, and comprehensive knowledge of facility management. It often involves setting the strategic direction for the company’s maintenance operations and infrastructure.
Facility Maintenance Manager Work Environment
Facility Maintenance Managers work in a variety of settings, including office buildings, schools, hospitals, retail stores, and industrial facilities.
They are typically responsible for overseeing the maintenance and repair work of these facilities, ensuring that the building, machinery, and equipment are in good working condition.
The work schedule for Facility Maintenance Managers can be demanding, often requiring them to be on-call in case of emergencies or issues that need immediate attention.
They may also need to work overtime to oversee maintenance projects or resolve unexpected problems.
The work environment for Facility Maintenance Managers can be both physical and office-based.
They may spend part of their day in an office, scheduling work, planning budgets, or meeting with vendors.
The rest of their day may be spent on-site, supervising maintenance work, inspecting the facility, or troubleshooting equipment issues.
With experience and a successful track record, a Facility Maintenance Manager may advance to oversee multiple facilities or take on a regional or national role within a larger organization.
FAQs About Becoming a Facility Maintenance Manager
What is needed to become a Facility Maintenance Manager?
To become a Facility Maintenance Manager, you usually need a bachelor’s degree in facilities management, engineering, or a related field, although substantial experience in a maintenance role can sometimes substitute for formal education.
Important skills include knowledge of HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems, budgeting, and project management abilities.
Good problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills are also essential, as you’ll be coordinating staff, overseeing repairs, and ensuring the smooth operation of the facility’s physical infrastructure.
How long does it take to become a Facility Maintenance Manager?
The time it takes to become a Facility Maintenance Manager can vary.
If you pursue a bachelor’s degree in a related field, it typically takes four years.
Following that, you’ll need a few years of experience in a maintenance role before moving into a management position.
Overall, it can take anywhere from 6-10 years to become a Facility Maintenance Manager, depending on your educational path and the specific requirements of the employer.
Can I become a Facility Maintenance Manager without a degree?
Yes, it’s possible to become a Facility Maintenance Manager without a traditional four-year degree.
Some employers prioritize practical experience and skills over formal education.
Gaining experience in maintenance roles, such as a technician or supervisor, can help you build the necessary skills.
However, having a degree related to facility management or engineering can enhance your prospects and might be required for some positions.
Is Facility Maintenance Management a stressful job?
Facility Maintenance Management can be stressful at times, as the role involves overseeing many aspects of a facility’s operation, dealing with emergencies, and managing staff.
However, the level of stress can vary depending on the size and type of facility, the amount of support you have, and your own stress management techniques.
Many Facility Maintenance Managers find satisfaction in ensuring a safe and well-maintained environment for others.
What are the prospects for Facility Maintenance Managers in the next decade?
The prospects for Facility Maintenance Managers are expected to grow at a steady rate in the next decade.
As long as there are physical buildings and facilities, there will be a need for professionals to manage and maintain them.
Advances in technology, such as smart building systems, are also creating new opportunities in the field.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Embarking on a journey to become a Facility Maintenance Manager is no small task, but it’s certainly rewarding.
Armed with the right technical skills, managerial experience, and tenacity, you’re well on your way to making a significant impact in the facility management industry.
Remember, the path may be demanding, but the opportunities are limitless. Your managerial brilliance could lead to the next big innovation in facility maintenance and operations.
So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in gaining industry knowledge. Network with professionals. And most importantly, never stop learning.
Because the world of facility maintenance management is waiting for your expertise.
And if you’re looking for personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career as a Facility Maintenance Manager, look no further than our AI Career Path Advisor.
This free tool is designed to offer tailor-made advice and resources to help you navigate your career path effectively.
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