Facilities Manager

Facilities Managers are in charge of overseeing all building-related operations. They ensure that infrastructure is in excellent working order and is safe and functional.

Facilities Manager Job Description

Plan and coordinate all utilities and refurbishments ensuring that the inventory is up to date and documented properly.

Maintain equipment and supplies in accordance with health and safety regulations.

Inspect the structures of buildings to assess the need for repairs or renovation.

Supervise all facilities staff and external contractors.

Handle insurance plans and service contracts.

Develop and implement emergency response plans to ensure the safety of building occupants in the event of emergencies.

Act as a liaison between building management and tenants to address concerns, resolve issues, and ensure a positive tenant experience.

Note

Facilities Managers enhance premises efficiency, overseeing daily operations, maintenance, and staff productivity. They coordinate a spectrum of tasks, from managing service demand and supply to addressing property issues, ensuring smooth operational flow.

A day in the life

Facilities Manager

Esplanade's magic extends beyond the stage. Watch how Pei Ling, the Building Services Manager, keeps the arts centre running smoothly.

What you should know about Facilities Manager jobs in Singapore

Nature of Work

As Facilities Managers, your main goal is to keep a facility in its greatest functioning condition possible so daily operations can run smoothly.

Key Advice

You need to ensure that tenants are happy and getting the most out of their built environment through effective workplace management!

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
A bachelor’s degree in Architecture or Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, Facilities Management, Building Services or equivalent.

Prior experience from internships is also preferred by employers.

Obtaining certifications related to Facilities Management can enhance your credentials and competitiveness in the job market. Certifications such as Certified Facility Manager (CFM), Facility Management Professional (FMP), or LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP) demonstrate expertise and commitment to the field.
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you need to pursue a Facilities Manager career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Space Use

Ability to maximise space and equipment use while lowering operating costs

Technical Engineering

Well-versed in Technical/Engineering operations and Facilities Management best practices

Accounting

Possesses a working knowledge of Accounting processes and Finance principles.

Soft Skills

Critical Thinking

Skilled in analysing electrical issues logically to make informed, effective decisions.

Leadership Skills

Adept in guiding teams towards successful project completion, inspiring and managing effectively.

Communication

Ability to collaborate with team members through verbal and written communication.

“Our role is to ensure that Esplanade is in tip top condition.”

Keh Pei Ling, Building Services Manager

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What does a typical day entail for Facilities Managers?

Facilities Managers' duties depend on the nature of the organisation. Common tasks include building maintenance, ensuring the upkeep of equipment and supplies, determining and scheduling repairs or renovation projects, and coordinating safety inspections.

Facilities Managers also oversee a budget and must negotiate with outside suppliers for supplies, maintenance and other services.
What are the hard and soft services expected of Facilities Managers?

Facilities Management includes hard and soft management. Hard management tasks involve managing a building's physical space. These include property strategy, design, space management, plumbing and electrical inspections.

Soft management tasks refer to managing services a business depends on to provide a safe environment. These include health and safety management, building security, waste management services, budget management and supporting staff.
What is the difference between Facilities Managers and Workplace Managers?

Facilities Managers oversee the overall workplace environment, ensuring it is safe, comfortable and conducive for employees. While Office Managers focus on employees, Facility Managers are responsible for the surrounding infrastructure and facilities.
How do companies know if they need Facilities Managers?

When considering the need for Facilities Managers, it's important to assess the types of issues typically encountered.

Facilities Managers may be necessary if there are recurring problems with essential services, frequent preventable safety incidents, inadequate tracking of maintenance costs, vendors, inventory and excessive reliance on emergency or reactive maintenance.
What is the most important concern for Facilities Managers?

As Facilities Managers, their primary responsibility is to ensure the smooth operation of the building. However, beyond maintenance, there are other factors to consider.

Many Facilities Managers must juggle their daily tasks while adhering to a budget, which is more frequently reduced than increased.