Facilities manager
Estates manager, support services manager, contracts manager
Facilities managers oversee the operation and maintenance of building systems and services.
Average salary (a year)
£23000
Starter
£47000
Experienced
Typical hours (a week)
38.0 to 40.0 hours
a week
Work Hours
between 8am and 6pm
flexibly
How to become
Explore the different ways to get into this role
You can get into this job through:a university course; an apprenticeship; working towards this role; applying directly
University
You could get into facilities management with a foundation degree or degree in almost an subjects.
Particularly relevant subjects include
facilities management, building services management
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
  • at least 1 A level, or equivalent, for a foundation degree
  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
More Information
equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/
Apprenticeship
The following apprenticeships are relevant to this role
facilities management supervisor advanced apprenticeship, facilities manager higher apprenticeship, senior and head of facilities management degree apprenticeship
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
More Information
equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide
higher and degree apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/higher-and-degree-apprenticeships
Work
You may be able to start as a building caretaker, management assistant or apprentice facilities services operative and work your way up.
Your employer will likely encourage you to work towards qualifications like a Level 3 Diploma in Facilities Management or professional qualifications offered by the ILM.
Direct Application
You can apply for jobs directly if you've got a combination of relevant experience and qualifications. This includes technical skills related to buildings and management skills.
Qualifications and experience in building services engineering, surveying or health and safety could give you an advantage.
More Information
Career Tips
You may find it useful to have a health and safety qualification.
Professional And Industry Bodies
You could apply to become a member of the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Further Information
You can find out more about becoming a facilities manager from the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management.
What it takes
Find out what skills you’ll use in this role
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
    Customer service skills
    Business management skills
    Administration skills
    To be thorough and pay attention to detail
    Knowledge of economics and accounting
    Patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
    The ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
    The ability to work well with others
Digital Skills Level
to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
What you will do
Discover the day-to-day tasks you’ll do in this role
Day to day tasks
In this role you could
be in charge of refurbishment, renovations and office moves, make sure the building is maintained and meets health and safety standards, advise on energy efficiency, manage cleaning, waste disposal, catering, parking and security, manage budgets and accounts, negotiate with contractors and suppliers, manage office systems like IT and equipment
Working environment
You could work in an office, at a sports arena or at a conference centre.
Career Path & Progression
Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities
With experience you may be able to progress to senior or regional manager roles.
Job profile data provided by The National Careers Service.