The Facilities Manager Role: A Guide to Pros, Cons & How to Get Started

The Facilities Manager is a critical role in the hospitality and restaurant industry, ensuring the safety, functionality, and maintenance of all physical assets and systems. This guide explores the responsibilities, benefits, challenges, and pathways to becoming a successful facilities manager.

What Does a Facilities Manager Actually Do?

A facilities manager is responsible for overseeing the maintenance, repair, and smooth operation of a building and its systems. This includes managing building infrastructure (like HVAC, plumbing, electrical), coordinating maintenance schedules, managing vendor contracts, ensuring safety compliance, and often budgeting for facility needs. They work to create a safe, comfortable, and functional environment for both staff and customers. This role combines practical skills, organizational ability, and leadership.

Pros of Being a Facilities Manager

The Facilities Manager role offers several appealing advantages for individuals interested in operations, maintenance, and management:

Impactful Role: You directly impact the safety and functionality of the facility and the people who use it.
Varied Responsibilities: Every day brings different challenges, so it’s not a repetitive job.
Problem-Solving: You’ll get to troubleshoot issues and find practical solutions, using your critical thinking skills.
Project Management: You’ll oversee maintenance projects and renovations, keeping your day interesting.
Industry Knowledge: You’ll gain valuable knowledge of building systems, maintenance procedures, and safety regulations.
Career Advancement: You can move into higher management roles within the operations sector of the hospitality industry.
Job Stability: Facility managers are needed in almost every industry, so your job will always be in demand.

Cons of Being a Facilities Manager

However, there are also some challenges that come with being a facilities manager:

On-Call Hours: You may need to be available for emergencies outside of normal working hours.
High-Pressure Situations: You need to deal with urgent maintenance issues and building malfunctions.
Budget Constraints: You need to manage expenses within a set budget.
Dealing with Vendors: You’ll be dealing with different service providers which can be difficult at times.
Physical Work: You might have to participate in some physical maintenance and repairs.
Safety Concerns: You’ll need to take care of safety issues.
Liability: You are responsible for ensuring that the workplace is safe for everyone.

How Much Money Can You Make?

The salary for a facilities manager can vary based on experience, location, and the type of establishment. However, it is usually a salaried position with potential for bonuses based on your performance.

How Do You Become a Facilities Manager?

Becoming a facilities manager typically involves a mix of education, experience, and skill development:

Get Relevant Education: Consider a degree in facilities management, engineering, or a related field. Higher education can be very valuable in this role.
Gain Hands-On Experience: Start with entry-level maintenance or operations roles, learning about building systems. You will need to have a good grasp on how the facilities work.
Learn About Building Systems: Familiarize yourself with HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and other building systems. You will need to know the basics about everything.
Develop Leadership Skills: Look for opportunities to lead projects or teams. Leadership skills are very important in this role.
Obtain Certifications: Pursue certifications like Certified Facility Manager (CFM). Having certifications can set you apart from others.
Network: Connect with other professionals in the facilities management industry. You never know where you will get your next position.
Build Problem-Solving Skills: Practice identifying problems, brainstorming solutions, and executing repairs. You will need these skills to work efficiently.

Questions People Often Ask (and Simple Answers):

Is Being a Facilities Manager a Good Career?

It can be a great career for those who enjoy problem-solving, have strong organizational skills, and want to have a direct impact on operations. This position can be very fulfilling if you have a passion for building and structure.

What Skills Do I Need to be a Good Facilities Manager?

You need to have a technical mindset, problem-solving skills, project management abilities, and excellent communication skills. You should also have basic knowledge of building structure.

Can I Make Good Money as a Facilities Manager?

Yes, the earning potential is quite good, especially with experience and certifications.

Do I Need Formal Education to be a Facilities Manager?

Formal education can be very helpful, but practical experience is equally important. A mix of both is a great way to get a job in this field.

Is the Job of a Facilities Manager Stressful?

It can be, especially when dealing with urgent maintenance issues or emergencies. You need to be ready to handle stressful situations.

What’s the Best Part of Being a Facilities Manager?

Many enjoy the challenge of managing complex systems, solving problems, and ensuring a safe and functional environment for everyone.

What Should I Look For in a Facilities Manager Position?

Look for a role where you can have independence, the chance to make a direct impact, and opportunities for career growth, and a company that has a good culture. Also look for a place that will have good working relationships.

The Bottom Line

The facilities manager position is essential in ensuring smooth, safe, and functional operations in any hospitality or restaurant setting. With a combination of technical skills, leadership abilities, and a dedication to problem-solving, you can find a rewarding and stable career as a facilities manager.