What are the different career paths in facilities management?

Career paths in facilities management can be divided by discipline and by industry. For example, one person may pursue a career in hardware maintenance while another chooses to work in transportation. Both of these disciplines are available in industries such as business, nonprofit, and government.

Facilities management encompasses the “coordination of people, place, process and technology,” according to the International Facilities Management Association. That’s a broad definition, which means professionals pursuing a facilities management career have a multitude of options.

10 Discipline Choices

Within each of the following disciplines, professionals can choose to pursue either a hands-on or management career path. The 10 major disciplines are summarized below:

1. Janitorial and Landscaping

Every facility in every industry requires a staff to care for its physical cleanliness and appearance.

2. Building Systems

People in this discipline care for all the behind-the-scenes systems including HVAC, utilities, and safety and security hardware.

3. Daily Operations

Daily operations staff coordinates conference rooms, stocks office supplies, and works with departments such as IT to address problems.

4. Environment, Health and Safety

These team members ensure that facilities comply with regulations and promote healthy and safe work environments.

5. Space Management

Managing a facility’s head count and required office space is an important role for folks in this discipline.

6. Transportation

From fleet management to vehicle maintenance, transportation encompasses a wide range of tasks for FM professionals.

7. Building Security

Items such as alarm systems, door security, electronic key cards, and building cameras must be repaired and maintained.

8. Fire Prevention

Professionals responsible for fire safety take care of evacuation plans, physical fire prevention equipment, and strategic plans.

9. Production Continuity

Facilities professionals must manage all the components to keep the daily workflow moving efficiently.

10. Career Advancement

Professionals in facilities management careers must pursue a combination of formal education and gaining industry experience. Many technical schools around the country offer facilities management courses, degrees, and certifications. Industry trade organizations also have professional development and networking opportunities. In addition, technology is changing rapidly in the field. Professionals who stay up-to-date on these developments will find more advancement opportunities.