A certified facility manager is someone who has completed training in various aspects of commercial or industrial facility management. The International Facility Management Association is in charge of the certification process. On its website, the IFMA lays out specific criteria and paperwork for completing the certification process.
A certified facility manager is put through a series of tests in areas such as HVAC, general utilities, groundskeeping, and security, as well as other aspects of keeping a property clean, safe, and secure. Despite the fact that many of these industries rely on a mix of skilled trades and manual labor, some have become more automated in recent years. A facility manager may gain knowledge of software administration in addition to more manual technologies such as HVAC, electrical wiring, and more. A modern certified facility manager can do so by using the foundation of a relevant BA or similar degree, whereas similar job roles in the past relied heavily on practical job experience.
The certified facilities manager is the go-to person for issues relating to the property’s functional maintenance as the practical head of support services. The certified facility manager and the facility management staff are part of what is commonly referred to as “support services.” Working on groundskeeping, HVAC, lighting systems, or plumbing does not relate to facility owners’ “core business,” but rather to supporting that core business through sound property maintenance, both to facilitate work in the buildings and to protect the business’s property investment.
Because facilities are frequently used as workplaces, issues relating to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are one of the most important responsibilities of a certified facilities manager. The facility manager will also deal with issues such as safety and environmental controls in general. A certified facility manager’s job usually includes knowing how to comply with safety regulations.
According to the IFMA, facility manager certification helps to validate a professional’s credentials in this field. A certified facility manager qualification can make the difference in landing a job in a competitive market. The certification procedure does not take a long time to complete. Individuals can learn more by consulting the IFMA’s resources on how to become a certified facility manager.