How to Become a Facility Manager

Are you considering a career in facility management but not sure where to start? In this article, we’ll explore what a facility manager does, why this career path is growing in demand, the skills that set successful FMs apart and the certifications and entry-level roles that can help you break into the field.  

What is Facility Management? 

At its core, facility management combines people, processes and technology to keep the built environment running smoothly. Facility managers oversee everything from building maintenance, energy systems and vendor contracts to space planning, safety compliance and sustainability initiatives. In other words, they are the professionals who make sure the lights stay on, the air is clean, the workplace is safe and operations never skip a beat. However, facility management is more than just managing buildings, it is about creating environments where organizations AND people thrive.

Why Pursue a Facility Management Career? 

A career in facility management is about more than fixing things; it’s about making a lasting impact on people’s day-to-day lives. 

• Growing Demand: Skilled facility managers are needed across industries from hospitals and universities to tech firms and government. 
• Meaningful Work: You directly shape the safety, comfort and efficiency of workplaces, which impacts every employee and visitor. 
• Diverse Opportunities: FM professionals work on sustainability initiatives, emergency planning, building technology and much more. 
• Career Growth: With experience, FMs can advance into leadership roles such as Director of Facilities or VP of Operations. 

What Skills Make a Good Facility Manager? 

Facility management requires a unique blend of skills. Here are the core skills that set FMs up for success: 

• Technical Knowledge: Understanding building systems, safety regulations and sustainability practices. 
• Business Acumen: Balancing budgets, negotiating contracts and aligning facilities strategy with organizational goals. 
• Soft Skills: 

• • Communication: working with staff, executives and vendors. 
  • Problem-Solving: troubleshooting emergencies with calm and efficiency. 
  • Collaborative Leadership: coordinating teams and contractors. 
  • Strategic Thinking: planning for long-term growth and resilience. 

Related: 7 Core Competencies Every Facility Manager Needs to Master 

Why Should I Pursue a Facility Management Credential? 

Credentials aren’t always required in the job description, but they can give you a competitive edge. They show employers you have the foundational knowledge to manage complex facilities. 

• Facility Management Professional (FMP): A great starting point for those entering the field. The FMP is intended for individuals at various stages of their facility management careers, looking to strengthen their hard and soft skills in facility management. 

• Certified Facility Manager (CFM): The CFM is designed for experienced facility professionals who have 3-5 years of industry expertise. The CFM certification is an exam testing your knowledge around key aspects of facility management, such as, but not limited to, operations and maintenance, project management, finance and leadership. 

These certifications help you stand out, boost your confidence, and open doors to more advanced opportunities.

Related: 5-Step Formula to Earning Your FMP Credential 

What Are Some Entry-Level Facility Management Roles? 

While titles vary, entry-level positions often include, but are not limited to: 

• Facilities Coordinator: Supports the FM team with scheduling, reporting and vendor communication. 
• Maintenance Technician/Assistant: Focuses on day-to-day building upkeep and repairs. 
• Space Planning Assistant: Helps with office layouts, moves and furniture management. 
• Operations Support Specialist: Provides administrative and logistical support for facilities teams. 

These roles provide a foundation to grow into broader FM responsibilities.  

Where Could a Career in Facility Management Take You? 

Facility management can lead to exciting, impactful roles: 

• Director of Facilities 
• Workplace Experience Manager 
• Vice President of Facility Operations
• Operations Executive 

Just take a look at the Vice President of Facility and Campus Operations at SOFI Stadium and Hollywood Park, Otto Benedict: 

Where can I learn more about facility management for free? 

If you’re curious about the field and want to start building knowledge, there are plenty of resources to help you get started:

• Connected FM Podcast: Tune in to conversations with facility management professionals and industry leaders covering workplace trends, challenges, and innovations. It’s a great way to learn on the go and hear real-world perspectives. Listen now.
• Connected FM Blog: Dive into articles that explore the latest insights, tips, and best practices in facility management. The blog offers practical advice whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your expertise. Check it out.
• Webinars: Access live and recorded sessions led by FM experts on topics like sustainability, technology, safety, and leadership. Webinars let you learn directly from specialists while staying up to date with emerging trends. Watch now.

• FMJ Magazine: The Facility Management Journal (FMJ) is IFMA’s flagship publication, featuring in-depth articles, case studies and thought leadership from experts across the industry. It’s a trusted resource for learning how facility management impacts organizations worldwide. Read it now.

Why IFMA? 

No matter what your journey looks like, facility management offers the chance to combine technical expertise with human impact. You’ll be part of a profession that keeps the world running, while shaping the future of workplaces. As the world’s largest association for facility management professionals, we bring together a passionate global community, advocate for the profession and lead research on the future of the built environment. We offer best-in-class education and credentials that equip you with the skills to succeed. Our local chapters provide opportunities to connect and share knowledge, while volunteering with IFMA allows you to give back to the profession, gain valuable experience and expand your network.