facilitiesmanagementcareersguidejuly2013
DESCRIPTION
Asset Skills FM Careers Guide www.assetskills.orgTRANSCRIPT
Facilities Management Careers Guide
July 2013
2
Chapter 1 – Working in FM....……………………………………………………………………………… 3
Why choose FM?......................................................................................................... 4
An FM’s Responsibilities…………………………………………………………………………………………... 5
What makes a good FM professional?........................................................................... 6
Facilities Management Labour Market Information...................................................... 7
Salaries & Benefits……………………….............................................................................. 8
Chapter 2 – FM Careers........................................................................................... 9
Facilities Managers (Soft FM)...................................................................................... 10
Facilities Managers (Hard FM).................................................................................... 11
Pest Control Technicians……………………….................................................................... 12
Energy Assessor.......................................................................................................... 13
Green Deal Advisors................................................................................................... 14
Chapter 3 – Apprenticeships and Qualifications...................................................... 15
Apprenticeships – Earn While You Learn.................................................................... 16
FM Higher Apprenticeships......................................................................................... 17
FM Qualifications……………………………………………………………………………………………….……. 18
Pest Control Qualifications…….................................................................................... 19
Domestic Energy Assessor & Green Deal Advisor Qualifications……………………………… 20
Chapter 4 – Decision Making................................................................................. 21
Making the Right Decision – Post 16 Subject Choices……………………………………………… 22
The Value of Work Experience....................................................................................... 23 FM at University......................................................................................................... 24
Personal Development Planning.................................................................................... 25
Chapter 5 – Job Hunting.......................................................................................... 26
Searching for a Job in FM………….................................................................................... 27
Big Company vs. Small Company................................................................................. 28
Your CV........................................................................................................................ 29
Your Covering Letter.................................................................................................... 30
Application Forms........................................................................................................ 31
Make a Good Impression............................................................................................. 32
Chapter 6 – FM People………….................................................................................. 33
Case Studies: Facilities Assistants.................................................................................. 34
Case Studies: Facilities Managers.................................................................................. 37
Case Studies: Energy Assessors.................................................................................... 40
Chapter 7 – Further Information………………………………………………………………………….. 42
How can Asset Skills Help you?.................................................................................... 43
Directory: Professional Bodies………………………………………………………………………………….. 44
Directory: Awarding Bodies………………………………………………………………………………………. 45
Directory: Careers Information…………………………………………………………………………………. 46
CONTENTS
WORKING IN FM
3
WORKING IN FM
4
What is Facilities
Management?
Facilities management is
the co-ordination of
services related to the
operation of commercial or
institutional buildings. It
typically includes activities
like: maintenance, security,
cleaning and catering.
As a facilities manager you
would be responsible for
providing and managing
these wide ranging services
for your clients, whether
you are employed by the
client’s organisation (in-
house) or a specialist
contractor (supply-
side/outsourcing).
The facilities management
industry in the UK is made
up of just over 202,000 staff
and just over 16,600
workplaces across the UK.
Hard and Soft FM
There are two main types of
facilities management:
Hard FM – services that
deal building e.g.
anything mechanical or
electrical.
Soft FM – services
provided by people e.g.
security, cleaning and
catering.
Career Options
The role of a facilities
manager is taking on
greater significance as
businesses look to make
savings and reduce their
impact on the environment.
Despite the fact that
facilities management is a
relatively new industry,
there are plenty of
opportunities for your
personal development,
career progression and
promotion as new
apprenticeships,
qualifications and career
pathways have recently
been introduced.
WHY CHOOSE FM? If you don’t like the idea of being
stuck behind a desk all day,
facilities management (FM) could
be the job for you!
REASONS TO CHOOSE A CAREER IN
FACILITIES MANAGMENT
1. Variety - You will have the
opportunity to experience a
dynamic, fast paced, exciting
environment in which to work.
2. Salary – Facilities managers
receive competitive salaries,
bonuses and benefits.
3. Career – Facilities managers
have the potential for rapid
personal growth and
development opportunities.
4. Challenge - You will experience
the challenges associated with
the day to day management of
buildings.
5. People - You will have the
chance to work with people
across the business.
5
AN FM’s
RESPONSIBILITIES
Compliance
Catering Cleaning
Main
tenan
ce
Security
Documents
Co
nferen
cing
Sup
po
rt Services
Logistics
Waste Management Reception
Heating
Air Conditioning
Help Desk
Supplies Telephones
Ad
min
istration
Corporate Social Responsibility
Customers
Team W
ork
Risk Management
Space
Man
agem
en
t
Ch
an
ge M
anage
me
nt
Bu
siness P
lan
Project Management
FM Strate
gy
Contract Management
Budgeting
Tendering
Finan
ces
Furn
iture
Caterin
g Sup
plies
CC
TV
Office Supplies
Procurement
Legislation
Financial
Meetings In
ternal P
ost
Gardening
Prepare Equipment
Asset Management
Maintenance
Au
dits
Supervising
Stock Control
Sche
du
les
Fire Alarms
Clients
Risk Assessment Opening Buildings
Visito
rs
Caretaking
Reports
Environmental Management
Confidential Mail
Pro
jectors
Order Stationary
Reactive Jobs
Safety Inspections
Overseeing Contractors
Lightin
g
Enquires
Co
mp
uters
Utility Readings
Presentations
Records
Pest Control Regulation
Supply Chains
Electrical Key
Those responsibilities
highlighted in yellow
demonstrate the
increasing professionalism
of the industry.
6
You will need to be an
enthusiastic individual who
is willing to learn technical
skills on the job and
prepared to take
responsibility for your work.
Work or industry
experience prior to moving
into the industry is valued
by employers because it
gives you the practical
knowledge needed to solve
the client’s problems.
You will need to be
organised and a multi-
tasker able to perform a
range of different tasks
from arranging and
overseeing maintenance, to
ordering office supplies and
preparing meeting rooms.
As a result of this variation
in tasks, time management
and the ability to work
under pressure are
therefore considered
essential by employers.
In the current economic
climate, industry employers
are looking to recruit those
with excellent customer
service and communication
skills to promote good
working relationships with
both clients and colleagues.
Employers are also looking
for staff with excellent
negotiation skills. These
skills will allow you to
engineer solutions to
problems that will ensure
the best possible outcome
for clients in areas such as:
purchasing decisions and
budgeting.
The Wider Context
The facilities management
industry in the UK is
expected to continue to
experience growth as the
services it encompasses
represent the biggest
expenditure for most
organisations.
WHAT MAKES A GOOD FM PROFESSIONAL? No matter what your area of interest,
there are some skills that all facilities
management employers are looking
for in potential new recruits.
THE VALUE OF WORK EXPERIENCE
IN FACILITIES MANAGEMENT
To get a job in FM, candidates are
increasingly finding they need to
combine their academic
achievements with experience in
the workplace. Work experience
can benefit you by:
Developing your employability
skills and business awareness.
Providing you with the
opportunity to interact with
experienced staff in a
professional capacity.
Giving your CV a competitive
edge by differentiating you
from other candidates.
Providing you with more life
experience.
Giving you the chance to work
independently and as part of a
team.
Providing you with the chance
to learn more about yourself
e.g. how you react in certain
situations.
7
Sector LMI articles provide a concise and easy way to assess the state of the sectors workforce.
Facilities management is
the co-ordination of
services related to the
operation of commercial or
institutional buildings. It
typically includes activities
such as: maintenance,
security, cleaning and
catering.
The facilities management
industry in the UK is made
up of just over 208,800 staff
and just over 11,600
workplaces across the UK
with a market value of £117
billion.
Age
Only 8% of the facilities
management workforce is
aged between 16 and 24.
This highlights the issue of
an ageing facilities
management workforce.
In Wales the contribution of
16 to 24 year olds to the
workforce is as low as 0%.
This is mainly due to a
common misconception
about facilities
management, the sector
goes far deeper than being
a caretaker as many people
believe and can offer a
promising career. The
ageing workforce in the
sector presents an
appealing opportunity for
young people to get into
the industry.
Working Status
In the facilities
management industry, 79%
of the workforce is
employed full-time
compared to 21% of the
workforce employed on a
part-time basis.
When we break this down
by nation we can see that
Northern Ireland has the
highest full-time
employment rate (100%),
while Wales has the lowest
(72%).
A high full-time
employment rate suggests
that the industry will be
male dominated as in the
past it has not been able to
cater for women’s demand
for flexible working. This is
now changing with more
part-time work available in
recent times.
Occupation
The largest occupational
group in the facilities
management industry is
managers and senior
officials (35%) with a
further 15% of the
workforce employed in
administrative and
secretarial roles.
In order to be a manager
you tend to need either a
very high level of education,
or have a vast array of
experience in the sector. As
a young person you should
get ahead of the game by
gaining experience and
qualifications (page 15) to
really stand out.
FACILITIES MANAGEMENT LABOUR MARKET INFORMATION (LMI)
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT:
http://www.assetskills.org/Research/LabourM
arketInformation/LabourMarket.aspx
8
The table below provides a
snapshot of the various
roles and typical earning
potential. Please note that
this is just a guide as
salaries rise with experience
and vary according to
function and location.
When at the start of your
career you earn £19,000.
SALARIES & BENEFITS Despite tough economic
conditions, the FM industry still
offers competitive salaries and
benefits.
Level of Responsibility In-house Specialist Contractor
Facilities Assistant / Office Manager Up to £35,000 dependent on
experience
Up to £35,000 dependent on
experience
Facilities Supervisor (Role Unavailable) Up to £35,000
Facilities Manager £26,000-£45,000 £36,000-£45,000
Senior Facilities Manager £26,000-£45,000 (Role Unavailable)
Multi-Site Facilities Manager £46,000-£60,000 £46,000-£60,000
Business Development / Sales (Role Unavailable) £36,000-£75,000
Bid Management (Role Unavailable) £26,000-£60,000
Commercial Management (Role Unavailable) £36,000-£60,000
Director / Head of FM £46,000-£75,000 (Role Unavailable)
TYPICAL SALARIES ACROSS THE UK
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
Health insurance
Mobile phone
Pension
Flexi-time
Paid overtime
Travel allowance
Company car
Petrol allowance
62 % 38 %
MALE / FEMALE RATIO IN FM 62/38
Evidence suggests that there
is a gender gap within the
facilities management
industry – 62 per cent of the
FM workforce is male, while
38 per cent are female.
Industry leaders are
encouraging more women to
start a career in facilities
management because gender
diversity gives employers
access to a wide range of
skills, can lead to more
innovative thinking and ,
ultimately, to better decision
making.
Source: FM World, 2012
9
FM CAREERS
10
What do they do?
A facilities manager is
responsible for managing
and coordinating the
provision of services on
premises, such as schools,
offices, hospitals, stadiums,
theatres and shopping
centres.
The core services you would
be responsible for
overseeing in a soft FM job
include: cleaning, reception,
pest control activities, office
supplies, maintenance,
catering and security.
What would my duties be?
Your duties will vary
according to the nature of
your employers’
organisation. However, they
will support your
employer’s core business by
ensuring that the people
who use the building have a
safe and efficient working
environment.
To achieve this you may be
responsible for preparing
documentation
to put out tenders for
contractors, negotiating to
get the best deal and co-
ordinating the work of
contractors on the client’s
premises.
What skills do I need?
Communication skills
Multi-tasking skills
Industry experience
Negotiations skills
Organisational skills
Problem solving skills
What qualifications do I
need?
Most FM qualifications are
work-based such as
apprenticeships and ILM/
British Institute of Facilities
Management (BIFM),
meaning you need to be
working in FM in order to
complete the course.
However, once you manage
to secure your first job,
there are clear progression
routes.
FACILITIES MANAGER (SOFT FM) Are you looking for a job where
you can meet new people,
influence business policy and
where no two days are the same?
JUNIOR POSITION
•Facilities Assistant
•Earns £19,000
•Typically requires work experience in related discipline and 5 good GCSEs
MID POSITION
•Facilities Manager
•Earns £25,000 - £45,000
•Typically requires BIFM part 1 and 2 or apprenticeship
SENIOR POSITION
• Senior / Regional Manager (multiple sites)
• Earns £46,000 - £60,000
• Typically requires post-graduate qualifcation and the ability to manage others
11
What do they do?
Facilities managers working
in Hard FM have
responsibility for all the
structural components of
buildings. As a result of
technological advances in
the building sector, many
building’s internal operating
systems are managed and
assessed using computers.
Hard FM requires a
workforce that has the
technical ability to manage
these innovative structures
and maintain excellent
standards and conditions
for people using the
building.
What would my duties be?
Like soft FM, much of the
work involves project and
finance management,
legislation around health
and safety and
management of the
technical support services.
You will typically be
responsible for all stages of
project management from
preparing documentation
and writing bids, through to
supervising and co-
ordinating contractors.
What skills do I need?
Communication skills
Multi-tasking skills
Industry experience
Negotiations skills
Organisational skills
Problem solving skills
What qualifications do I
need?
Most FM qualifications are
work-based such as
apprenticeships and ILM/
BIFM, meaning you need to
be working in FM in order
to complete the course.
However, once you manage
to secure your first step on
the careers ladder, there
are clear progression
routes.
FACILITIES MANAGER (HARD FM) Are you looking for a job where
you can meet new people,
influence business policy and
where no two days are the same?
JUNIOR POSITION
•Facilities Technician
•Earns £19,000
•Typically requires work experience in related discipline and 5 good GCSEs
MID POSITION
•Facilities Manager
•Earns £25,000 - £45,000
•Typically requires BIFM part 1 and 2 or apprenticeship
SENIOR POSITION
•Senior / Regional Manager (multiple sites)
•Earns £46,000 - £60,000
•Typically requires post-graduate qualifcation and the ability to manage others
12
What do they do?
Pest control technicians
identify, control and
eliminate pests or vermin
such as: birds, rabbits, rats,
grey squirrels, mice and
various insects.
As a pest control technician
you will be responsible for
using a wide range of
equipment, methods, and
chemicals.
You will also be required to
advise customers on
preventative measures and
suitable methods of control.
What would my duties be?
You will have to inspect a
customer’s premises on a
routine schedule and report
on levels of pest infestation.
This would allow you to
organise and undertake a
treatment programme
designed to control or
eliminate target pests.
What skills do I need?
Communication skills
Physically fit
Customer service
Industry experience
Problem solving skills
Numeracy skills
The ability to keep
records
Knowledge of health
and safety
What qualifications do I
need?
Pest control qualifications
range from apprenticeships
to distance learning. They
will ensure that you have
the skills for the job and are
aware of Government
legislation related to the
control and elimination of
pests.
PEST CONTROL TECHNICIAN Do you like the idea of being out
and about, rather than stuck
behind a desk? Then pest control
could be the career for you.
JUNIOR POSITION
•Trainee Pest Controller
•Earns £14,000 - £18,000
•Typically requires 5 good GCSEs
MID POSITION
•Pest Controller
•Earns £19,000 - £25,000
•Typically requires RSPH Level 2 certificate in Pest Control
SENIOR POSITION
•Pest Control Service Manager
•Earns £30,000 - £35,000
•Typically requires RSPH Level 3 certificate in Pest Control and the ability to manage people
13
Junior Position
• Assistant Energy Assessor
• Earns: £15,000 - £18,000
• Typically requires experience in related discipline
Mid Position
• Energy Assessor
• Earns: £20,000 - £30,000
• Typically requires Level 3 Diploma in Energy Assessment and a significant amount of work experience
What is the difference
between DEA and NDEA?
A domestic energy assessor
(DEA) tests the energy
efficiency of residential
buildings providing an
Energy Performance
Certificate (EPC) and make
suggestions for
improvements so the
homeowner can sell or rent
their property.
A non-domestic energy
assessor (NDEA) tests the
energy efficiency of
commercial buildings and
produces EPCs showing
energy efficiency, carbon
dioxide ratings and suggests
ways to increase energy
efficiency.
What do they do?
An energy assessor will
typically collect information
about the property, such as
age, building type, room
measurements and type of
heating system.
This data is entered into
computer software for
analysis to produce an
energy efficiency rating and
EPC certificate.
What qualifications would I
need?
To become an accredited
assessor you will need
either:
A level 3 Diploma in
Domestic Energy
Assessment
level 3 or 4 Diploma in
Non-Domestic Energy
Assessment
What skills would I need?
Observational skills
IT skills
Communication skills
Time management skills
The ability to measure,
record and report
accurately
Knowledge of
construction methods,
materials and heating
ENERGY ASSESSORS More home owners and businesses
are demanding energy assessments
to cut costs or sell their properties –
could this be the career for you?
Note: this is a relatively new job role so senior positions
are rare.
14
What is the Green Deal?
The Green Deal is designed
to allow homeowners and
businesses to improve the
energy efficiency of their
properties to cut costs by
allowing them to pay for
the cost of energy efficiency
measures through the
savings they make on their
energy bills.
What do they do?
A Green Deal Advisor starts
the process by providing an
assessment and suggestions
for measures that could
improve the energy
efficiency of a property.
The owner can then use this
information to make an
informed decision about
whether a Green Deal is
right for them.
For domestic properties the
assessment will involve:
Providing an EPC to
show where
improvements can be
made.
An assessment of how
the current occupants
use the property.
For the non-domestic
properties the assessment
will involve:
This will build on
existing methods of
energy assessment by
producing an EPC,
examining how existing
occupants use the
building, any energy
management practices,
fuel tariff information
and historic energy
usage data.
What qualifications would I
need?
To be a Green Deal Advisor
you must be an accredited
domestic or non-domestic
energy assessor, depending
on which sector you want
to provide Green Deal
assessments. In Scotland,
you will need to be a
member of an organisation
appointed by Scottish
minister to provide EPCs.
How would I be employed?
A Green Deal Advisor may
be:
An employee or sub-
contractor of Green
Deal Providers.
An independent, self-
employed assessor.
A public or voluntary
sector employee.
What skills would I need?
Observational skills
IT skills
Communication skills
Time management skills
The ability to measure,
record and report
accurately
Knowledge of
construction methods,
materials and heating
GREEN DEAL ADVISORS The Government’s introduction of the
Green Deal has created a brand new
career – could you be a Green Deal
Advisor?
The Department of Energy & Climate Change
www.decc.gov.uk
15
APPRENTICESHIPS AND
QUALIFICATIONS
16
Apprenticeships are an
established route for people
to enter their chosen field
of work by easing the
sometimes difficult
transition between full-time
learning and employment.
They allow you to develop
practical, job specific skills
by working alongside
experienced staff.
Apprentices gain a
qualification that is valued
by employers and enhances
their prospects for career
progression in the future.
Apprenticeships offer the
added benefit of allowing
you to earn money as you
develop your skills.
In recent years, the range of
industries and areas
covered by apprenticeships
has grown, particularly as
the model has become a
key part of government
policy.
The government covers a
proportion of the cost
associated with training
apprentices; however, this
is dependent on the age of
the apprentice.
How it works
The majority of the training
is ‘on the job’ at the
employer’s premises
working alongside
experienced staff to gain
job specific skills, while the
rest of the training is
provided by a local college
or specialist training
provider – this can be
completed on day release
or block release (where you
study for a week or two at a
time.
How an apprenticeship can
benefit you
The UK Government is
working hard to make
Apprenticeships equal to
other qualifications such as
A-Levels and degrees so
employers recognise the
value of Apprenticeships.
As the cost of going to university
increases, an apprenticeship route
can be a great, cost-effective way
to start your career in FM.
Jordan registered onto the new Facilities Management Apprenticeship in March 2010. He is taking the course with three other in-house facilities managers working for the London Borough of Redbridge.
Jordan was one of many people who applied to become an apprentice for the local authority. He got the job with no previous experience and sees the Apprenticeship as a way of fast-tracking him up the skills ladder.
"I like the practical side the most and the fact it's on-the-job learning. But I also enjoy the theory part and I'm learning a lot."
Most of his training is in the workplace and a tutor visits once a fortnight. He is expecting the Apprenticeship will take him two to three years to complete.
"There aren't many young people in FM and none of my friends know what it is. I think this programme will change that.”
APPRENTICESHIPS – EARN WHILE YOU LEARN
17
What is a higher
apprenticeship?
A higher apprenticeship
allows you to work towards
a work-based learning
qualification, such as a Level
4 competence and
functional skills
qualification.
In some cases, they provide
you with an alternative
route into university by
allowing you to complete
knowledge based
qualifications like a
foundation degree.
The development of higher
apprenticeships in FM
offers you the opportunity
to enter the industry after
completing your A-Levels or
developing your skills and
progressing later in your
career if you already have
experience in the industry.
Employers say “the FM
industry recognises the
importance of succession
and is keen to encourage
the next generation of
managers”.
Why are they so
important?
The facilities management
industry is relatively new
and improving the
professional profile of the
industry by providing clear
progression routes has only
recently become a priority.
As a result, people move
into the industry at a later
stage in their career and are
therefore typically older.
Whilst the skills of older
workers are extremely
valuable, younger
employees with the
required skills are also
important in ensuring that
the industry can be
sustainable in the long-
term, especially as it is
expanding rapidly.
This means that there will
be a range of opportunities
for you to enter the
facilities management
industry and develop a
successful, rewarding
career.
FM HIGHER APPRENTICESHIPS Perhaps you’d still like to combine
employment and studying at
university? This could the choice
for you.
Matt is a senior facilities manager
working at UGL Services / DTZ. He
recently completed a part-time
Foundation Degree leading to a BA in
Facilities management.
“I can truly say that studying at
Sheffield Hallam has changed my life. I
was a white van driver working within
a small facilities management team
and the opportunities available to me
were limited.
“I realised that a foundation degree
would not only sharpen my skills and
improve my knowledge, it would also
be a solid platform to further my
career.
“Four years after I started studying, I’m
a qualified senior facilities manager
working within a large regional FM
team for one of the largest global
property services firms.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Email:
Call: 01392 423 399
18
Facilities management is
fast becoming a career in its
own right; historically,
people have moved into FM
from other sectors, but it is
recognised as a highly
professional industry. Most
FM qualifications are work-
based meaning you need to
be working in the FM sector
in order to complete the
course.
There are clear progression
routes allowing you to gain
qualifications from a Level 2
to Level 7 and beyond (see
table below).
FM QUALIFICATIONS These qualifications have been
created to increase the
professionalism of the industry.
School/College/University GCSEs Maths, English and Science
qualifications would be useful for FM
A-levels, BTEC National Diplomas
Maths, English and Science would be useful, along with other subjects such as economics, law or business studies
University A relevant degree such as FM, business, property management, law
Central Lancashire University offer a full-time BSc in FM. Other higher education courses are part-time and require you to be working in FM.
Work-based Learning (where your studies are part of your job) Level 2 Apprenticeship
Facilities Services A new qualification suitable for candidates who would like to get into FM and progress on to the level 3.
Level 3 Apprenticeship
Facilities Management Suitable for those over the age of 18 with a good standard of Level 2/3 education.
Higher Apprenticeships at Levels 4, 5 and 6
Facilities Management These new higher level apprenticeships offer an alternative route to a degree level qualification without candidates having to attend university.
ILM/BIFM Level 3 in FM
Award/Certificate/Diploma This qualification is the industry standard for people new to the sector.
BIFM Levels 4 - 7 These qualifications are for experienced facilities managers looking to progress their careers.
If you were on a higher level FM apprenticeship, these qualifications would be included in your work/study
Distance Learning (where you study independently in your own time) Part-time and Foundation Degrees
Facilities Management These courses require you to be working in FM but you don’t have to attend regular classes at university – much of the learning will be completed on line and at work.
19
Pest Control qualifications
are designed to provide an
understanding of public
health pests and their
management as set out in
the control of pesticides
regulations 1986.
Pest control qualifications
can be studied in a number
of ways. Often, they are
completed during a five day
residential course which
would run from Monday to
Friday with the exam being
on the Friday. Another way
would be to purchase an
on-line course and then
attend an exam centre to sit
the exam when it suits you.
If you don’t have any pest
control qualifications, some
employers would take you
on if you were prepared to
work towards becoming
qualified.
PEST CONTROL QUALIFICATIONS These qualifications will help you
develop an exciting career in pest
control.
School/College/University
GCSEs English, Maths and Science would be useful for pest control work
There are no set entry requirements to work in pest control but good literacy and numeracy skills are useful for recording incidents and measuring chemicals.
A-levels, BTEC National Diplomas
Additional subjects such as environmental studies or geography would be useful for pest control
Work-based Learning (where your studies are part of your job)
Apprenticeship Cleaning and Environmental Services
This apprenticeship contains some elements of pest control.
Distance Learning (where you study independently in your own time)
RSPH/BPCA Level 2 Award and Certificate
Pest Management Usually a 5 day residential course but can also be purchased as an on-line course.
RSPH Level 3 Diploma Pest Management For pest controllers who would like to progress in the industry and specialise in a particular area.
The Royal Society for Public
Health www.rsph.org.uk
The British Pest Control
Association
www.bpca.org.uk
20
Due to the requirements for
buildings to have EPCs there
will be continuing demand
for the services of domestic
and non-domestic energy
assessors across the UK.
To become an accredited
domestic energy assessor
you will need to gain the
Level 3 Diploma in Domestic
Energy Assessment. This
involves completing at least
five EPCs and a multiple
choice exam.
The amount of training you
need before undertaking
the diploma will depend on
your skills (refer to the job
profile in the previous
chapter).
Remember to check
whether there are any
opportunities for work in
your local area before
starting the training and to
compare training providers
to ensure you get the best
price.
DOMESTIC & NON-DOMESTIC ENERGY ASSESSOR & GREEN DEAL ADVISOR QUALIFICATIONS Here are the qualifications you
need to become an employee in
this new sector.
School/College/University GCSEs Maths, English and Science would be
useful qualifications for this role
A-levels, BTEC National Diplomas
Maths, English and Science, Business Studies
There is a lot of accurate report writing involved in this work so subjects that help you develop skills in this area would be very useful.
Distance Learning (where you study independently in your own time) Level 3 Certificate or Diploma In Domestic Energy Assessment The difference between a
Certificate and a Diploma is the amount of content. A certificate has fewer units than a Diploma (even though it will be at the same level)
Level 3 Diploma For Domestic Energy Assessors
Level 3 Certificate In Non Domestic Energy Assessment
Level 3 Diploma For Non Domestic Energy Assessors
Level 3 Diploma In Display Energy Certificates
Level 4 Diploma In Non Domestic Energy Assessment
Level 5 Diploma In Non Domestic Energy Assessment
Level 3 Certificate For Green Deal Advisors - Domestic This qualification should be available by June 2012
Level 4 Certificate For Green Deal Advisors – Non-Domestic
This qualification should be available by late summer
National Careers Service
Energy Assessor Career Profile:
https://nationalcareersservice.d
irect.gov.uk/advice/planning/jo
bprofiles/Pages/domesticenerg
yassessor.aspx
21
DECISION MAKING
22
How should I decide?
You should try to choose
subjects to study at a higher
level that:
You are good at and
have enjoyed studying
You need to enter a
particular career or
course
You should try to study
subjects that suit your
strengths
What will give me the most
options?
Many courses at university
level build on the
knowledge you will have
gained at school and
college.
As facilities management is
not taught at school,
students on FM courses
have a wide variety of A-
Level or equivalent
qualifications.
The following list of subjects
might be useful to study at
A-Level before moving onto
a FM course at university:
Mathematics
English
Science
Law
Business
Economics
Geography
History
Language
Is there anything else I
need?
If you have a specific course
or university in mind, use
their entry requirements as
a guide while making your
decisions.
Most universities require a
minimum grade C at GCSE
in English Language and
Mathematics as well as A-
Levels (or equivalent
qualifications) to ensure
that you will be able to
understand lectures and
complete any coursework.
Universities are also looking
for motivated candidates
that will regularly attend
lectures and get the most
out of their university
experience.
MAKING THE RIGHT DECISION – POST 16 SUBJECT CHOICES The choices you make now
could affect what you go on to
do at university.
1. Listen to people around you
but make up your own mind
which subjects to do, using
the information you have.
2. Do not choose a subject
because your favourite
teacher is teaching it!
3. Research the syllabuses of
new subjects before choosing
them so you know what to
expect.
4. Do not choose a subject
because your current teacher
expects you to take it.
5. Look at the workload of your
subject choices to see how
they are assessed – you may
not want 3 courses where all
your chances rest on exams at
the end of the year.
23
Work experience is
becoming increasingly
important in determining
whether graduates are
employable because it
provides individuals with
the opportunity to develop
skills that can be difficult to
gain through study, but are
crucial to employers.
Work experience comes in a
variety of forms involving
taster sessions, one or two
week placements and
shadowing industry
professionals.
Firstly, it is important that
any work experience you
undertake is in an area that
you are interested in. The
main reasons for this are:
It will help clarify the
direction you would like
your career to take
Influence further study
options
Change your perception
of what you are looking
for in a career
Nobody wants to start off in
a career that they do not
find appealing and work
experience can help make
sure this mistake does not
happen.
Another important reason
to take part in work
experience is that it gives
you experience of the
application process. This
can provide you with
valuable insights into
applications and interviews
to help you in finally
securing that dream job.
Not forgetting that this will
also boost your CV.
Employability skills are
defined as a set of
attributes, skills and
knowledge that all labour
market participants should
possess. These are what
you should be looking to
develop whilst taking part in
work experience.
Skills that fall under this
bracket include working in
teams, dealing with conflict,
empathising and time
management. Having taken
part in work experience and
successfully developing
your employability skills
you will be a more
interesting prospect to
employers, and it will
increase your confidence in
yourself and your abilities.
Networking with employers
can prove very beneficial
when looking for jobs after
university. It has been
proven that firms prefer to
take on young people who
they have had previous
contact with.
All forms of work
experience can be highly
beneficial, as long as the
student has clear
objectives, knows what they
want to get out of it,
reflects on their experience
and can convey to a future
employer what they have
learnt.
THE VALUE OF WORK EXPERIENCE What is in it for you?
THE VALUE OF WORK EXPERIENCE
For advice, guidance and
real student opinions on
their placements please
visit:
http://www.ratemyplacem
ent.co.uk/
24
If you’re interested in a
career as a facilities
manager, a relevant degree
in FM or a related subject
like property management,
business or law will help
you develop the knowledge
and skills for the job.
Why do a degree?
For many industries a full-
time honours degree is the
accepted academic route to
professional status.
Many courses are based on
units of study or modules.
Each module lets you earn
credits towards your
qualification, while giving
you a degree of flexibility
over the focus of your
studies.
There is a good range of FM
qualifications available at
university. These include
full-time BScs as well as
part-time post-graduate
qualifications (diplomas,
MSc or MBA) that mainly
attract middle to senior
level managers who are
keen to continue
developing their careers.
What are the benefits of
university life?
Adapting to university is
one of the most rewarding
challenges you will ever
face. The main advantages
of going to university are:
To immerse yourself in
your chosen subject –
you get to study what
you want in your own
time.
To enhance your career
prospects – employers
like the commitment
and dedication that
studying one subject for
three years shows.
To meet lifelong friends
– university allows you
to socialise with a wide
range of people from all
walks of life.
To undertake extra-
curricular activities –
you can join all sorts of
clubs, societies and
teams.
How much will it cost?
The costs of being a student
vary between different
parts of the UK and the
length of courses. Financial
support is available, so
money does not have to be
a barrier.
FM AT UNIVERSITY Not sure about taking a facilities
management degree? Here’s a bit
more information to help you
make the right decision.
Prospects Graduate Careers
Website: www.prospects.ac.uk
Prospects provide detailed
information on the facilities
management courses available
across the UK.
British Institute of Facilities
Management: www.bifm.org.uk
BIFM offers a number of
qualifications at higher education
level.
25
A PDP is an action plan
based on awareness;
values, reflection, goal-
setting and planning for
personal development,
related to a career or
education.
One of the areas that
people struggle with is
setting the initial goals
associated with a personal
development plan. A simple
table, like the one shown
here may help you roughly
sketch out your ideas for
where you want to be.
Education
Once you have settled on a
career or interest that you
wish to pursue your choice
of course becomes very
important. At any level,
from GCSEs up to Degrees,
you will need to balance
how enjoyable you find the
subject area, your abilities
and the career prospects a
course can provide.
Events
Attending a range of career
and education fairs or
conferences/seminars can
really help you come to a
decision. Many people will
be there to give you advice
on the different careers, job
roles and courses available.
Mentors/Supporters
Talking to parents, teachers
or lecturers with the aim of
discussing where you are at
can be an important step in
the PDP process. They can
give you advice and help
you set targets for making
informed decisions
in order to help you to
come up with the final goal.
Although important early
on subject choice is not the
be all and end all. Some
university courses can be
very specific but will have a
wide range of pathways
that you can follow before
specialising.
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT PLANNING (PDP) A quick guide to help you work out what
you want; why you want it and how you
plan to get there
For more information on PDP or
career development visit:
National Careers Service
(https://nationalcareersservice.
direct.gov.uk/Pages/Home.aspx)
OR
UCAS
(http://www.ucas.com/)
26
JOB HUNTING
27
Where do I look?
FM vacancies are advertised
in a variety of places,
including: local and national
press; specialist building or
FM publications; on
professional bodies’
websites and at networking
events.
FM recruitment or careers
fairs are also a great way of
learning about the industry,
meeting potential
employers and making a
good impression.
How can I improve my
chances?
Utilising free or inexpensive
services that provide
careers guidance and job
search assistance can be a
great place to start. These
services are often offered
by your local college or
university careers centre,
job centre or local library.
Careers advisers will
suggest you take a copy of
your CV to these meetings
so that the advisor can offer
specific advice on how to
improve your chances.
It is also a good idea to
build up a network of
people that can help you
develop your career
prospects (through work
experience for example) or
contact potential employers
(smaller employers tend to
rely on word-of-mouth,
headhunting or internal
recruitment to fill
vacancies).
Are there other routes into
the FM industry?
Yes, fixed term contracts,
short-term placements,
part-time or temporary
work through agencies are
all useful entry points,
especially in a depressed
economic market where
employers may be reluctant
to take on permanent staff.
Another route into the
industry is through
qualifications such as the
Facilities Management
Apprenticeship programme.
Keep your spirits up
It can take time to get a job
because you need to go
through the process several
times before you develop
the right CV writing and
interview technique. To
speed up this process you
should get feedback on
each stage of your job
search.
SEARCHING FOR A JOB IN FM So you’ve decided that facilities
management is for you. But what
are the next steps in your search
for the perfect FM job?
COMMON MISTAKES JOB
SEEKERS MAKE
1. Failing to research the
company – you need to tailor
your application and interview
responses to the company.
2. Insufficient preparation –
spend time making sure each
job application is as strong as
possible.
3. Unable to link past
experiences to the job role –
try to come up with examples
of when you have used the
skills listed on the job
specification.
28
The facilities management
market is dominated by a
small number of
international firms that
tend to be based across the
UK.
These firms offer a wide
range of outsourced FM
services in both hard and
soft FM
The services range from
cleaning and catering
service provision to
mechanical and electrical.
Due to the variety of
services these companies
provide, they tend to offer
new recruits the chance to
experience a number of
disciplines before deciding
on a specialism.
Employers of this size are
likely to have an in-depth
recruitment process
involving application forms,
group exercises, panel
interviews or tests.
In contrast, working for
Small and Medium sized
Enterprises (SMEs)
(organisations with fewer
than 250 employees) can be
rewarding because you are
likely to make a significant
contribution to the
company in a smaller space
of time.
However, the smaller
company size means they
are more likely to specialise
in a specific area, such as
estate agency, so there are
fewer opportunities to try
other disciplines.
SMEs also tend to have
shorter recruitment
processes relying on local
press, job centres and word
of mouth to advertise
vacancies that only require
applications in the form of a
CV and covering letter,
before interview.
Opportunities and recruitment can
differ between FM companies
depending on their size – the key
differences are outlined below.
GROUP EXERCISES AT INTERVIEW
Large employers use group
activities at interview to assess
your interpersonal communication
skills – so how well you mix with
other people.
In these situations, you may have
to complete a practical task, a
case study or take part in a
discussion with other candidates
so that the employer can observe
your ability to work in a team and
the type of leadership style you
demonstrate.
Good team working is about
cooperating to achieve a common
goal so you should:
Listen to other candidates and
show the employer you
understand what they are
saying through your responses
Take initiative
Stay positive and motivated
throughout the exercise
Help others to speak
BIG COMPANY VS SMALL COMPANY
29
You have seconds to
persuade a potential
employer to interview you
so an effective CV may be
the only way to grab their
attention.
Your curriculum vitae is
primarily your passport to
interview. It isn’t your life
story but it is a clear concise
explanation of why an
employer should talk to you
in person.
Remember that when you
are applying for a number
of jobs a one-size-fits-all CV
won’t always work. You are
likely to have more success
if you tailor your CV to
highlight specific skills and
experience relevant to the
post you have applied for.
There are two popular types
of CV:
1. Chronological CV – this
is the most widely used
format which outlines
your work and
educational history. It is
ideal if you are
developing your career
in a particular industry.
2. Skills Based CV –
highlights the skills and
achievements that you
have gained throughout
your education and
working career. This
style of CV is also good
for those just starting
out in the industry.
What should I include?
All CVs should include the
following information:
Contact details –
including name,
address, phone number
and email address.
Work experience – this
may include part-time
work, voluntary work
and school work
experience placements.
Education details – this
should include the
name and address of
your school/college/
university, dates you
were there, the
qualifications and
grades you achieved.
Other significant
information – such as
first aid certificates or
Duke of Edinburgh
achievements.
YOUR CV An excellent CV can be your
gateway to first-class
employment opportunities.
CV MYTHS
1. Title – there is no need to put
Curriculum Vitae at the top of
your CV.
2. The bigger the better – a CV
should be about quality, not
quantity.
3. References – you don’t have to
include references on your CV,
instead you could write
‘references available upon
request’.
4. One-size-fits-all – remember
different job applications
require you to highlight
different skills and experiences.
5. Special styles & fonts get
noticed - too much creativity
can be distracting. Stick to
standard fonts, black text and
no graphics.
For more information on how to set
out your CV visit:
https://nationalcareersservice.direc
t.gov.uk/advice/getajob/cvs/Pages/f
ormats.aspx
30
Whenever possible, send a
covering letter with your CV
or application form that
reflects your qualities, style
and professionalism.
Your letter must therefore
highlight your motivation,
commitment and relevant
skills without regurgitating
everything in your CV.
Structure
You’re not writing your
autobiography so a covering
letter should be no longer
than one page of A4,
consisting of between 4 and
5 paragraphs.
Also try to match the style
of the letter with that of
your CV by using the same
font and a similar style of
writing.
Personalise
Always try to address the
letter to the specific person
at the company – this may
involve calling the company
and asking for their name.
Content
First, state the job title of
the role you are applying
for and how you heard
about the opportunity,
before listing the
documents you have
enclosed (CV).
Second, your covering letter
should always be tailored to
the specific role - so outline
why you are interested in
the role and working for the
organisation. This shows
potential employers that
you have researched the
role, organisation and
industry effectively.
Third, highlight your key
qualifications, skills and
experiences over the next
two paragraphs. Remember
to relate these back to the
skills requirements for the
job and use keywords from
the job advert.
Finally, positively conclude
the letter by maintaining
your enthusiasm for the
position and expressing
your interest in discussing
your application further at
interview.
Presentation
Remember to avoid long
paragraphs and check your
spelling / grammar before
you even think about
submitting your application.
Don’t rely on the computer
spellchecker - it lies!
Submission
There is a trend towards
email submissions in the
current job market so CVs
should be sent as
attachments while covering
letters are included in the
main body of the email.
YOUR COVERING LETTER An excellent covering letter
provides you with a great
opportunity to make a good first
impression.
For more information on
covering letters visit the
National Careers Service
website:
https://nationalcareersservice
.direct.gov.uk/advice/getajob
/cvs/Pages/writeacoveringlett
er.aspx
31
Employers use application
forms to assess your
motivation and skills. The
questions are designed to
assess specific attributes so
remember to answer all the
questions. It is not good
enough to just slip in a copy
of your CV and ask them to
refer to it.
Where do I start?
The key to filling in an
application form is reading
everything before you start;
the job description,
personal specification and
the guidance. Additionally,
make sure you do your own
research on the
organisation and the job
role.
From here you can identify
the relevant skills and
experiences which are going
to convince the reader you
are the person for the job
by promoting your relevant
qualities.
What questions will I be
asked?
Application form questions
tend to focus on:
How your education
and work experience
relate to their vacancy
Why you want that
particular job role / or
to work in the FM
industry
Examples of your skills
that are relevant the
job role
The personal statement
Most application forms give
you the opportunity to
express why you are the
best person for the job.
To cover all the bases, use
the personal specification
document to provide sub-
headings under which you
can emphasise particular
skills or experiences in a
clear and concise manner.
References
If your application form asks
you for referees, make sure
you ask them first, and try
to use the most appropriate
people to match the job you
are applying for.
Practice makes perfect
Always print off a few extra
blank copies of the
application form so you can
practice your answers to
the questions. This involves
including all the information
you need to within the
word limit (or box), so avoid
information that the
employer hasn’t requested.
Common Mistakes
Poor spelling and
grammar
Not answering the
question
Underselling yourself
Not seeking feedback
Not outlining relevant
skills
APPLICATION FORMS Employers get numerous
applications but there are some
things you can do to ensure that
you stand out from the crowd
32
Before the Interview
Preparation is the key to a
successful interview so you
should research your
potential employer by
reviewing their websites for
key facts that you can refer
to in your interview.
Take a good look at your
copy of the job specification
and identify examples of
how your skills match their
requirements.
You can then anticipate the
types of questions you are
likely to be asked and
practice answers that
highlight your skills,
background and
qualifications so you really
sell yourself at interview.
Finally, ensure you can
make a good first
impression by planning your
journey so you will arrive a
few minutes early and
planning what you will wear
to match the culture of the
company.
Start of the Interview
Be aware of your body
language:
Give your interviewer a
firm and confident
handshake
Sit properly
Maintain eye contact
Don’t fidget
Remember to smile
During the Interview
An interview is a two way
process, not only are you
being interviewed to assess
your suitability for the role,
but it is also a chance for
you to understand if the
role is right for you.
Show interest in what the
interviewer tells you about
the company.
When asked, deliver your
prepared answers to the
questions as rehearsed and
if you don’t understand a
question remember that it
is OK to say so or ask for
some time to think about it.
MAKE A GOOD IMPRESSION Having an interview can be a
daunting process – here is some
advice designed to ease the
pressure of the process
THE IMPORTANCE OF ASKING
QUESTIONS AT INTERVIEW
Asking the right questions during
interview could be the difference
between being employed or
missing out on a great
opportunity.
By asking questions you
demonstrate your interest and
depth of knowledge about the job
as well as your general level of
intelligence. The more senior the
position you are seeking, the more
complex the questions must be.
Some questions you may want to
ask at interview include:
Will I be working in a team? If
so, who will I be working
with?
What do you like best about
working for this organisation?
What types of training
opportunities can you offer?
Please can you tell me how
the role relates to the overall
structure of the organisation?
In what way is performance
measured and reviewed?
33
FM PEOPLE
34
CASE STUDY
Name: Jamie
Job Role: Facilities Manager
Jamie started his career in facilities management 10 years ago. In his
current role he is responsible for the management of services and
processes that support the core business of his organisation.
Jamie says “I ensure that my organisation has the most suitable
working environment for its employees and their activities. My focus is
on using best business practice to improve efficiency, by reducing
operating costs while increasing productivity.
Facilities Management is a wide field with a diverse range of
responsibilities. I am involved in both strategic planning and day-to-
day operations, particularly in relation to buildings and premises. My
key areas of responsibility include:
procurement and contract management;
building and grounds maintenance;
cleaning;
catering and vending;
health and safety;
security;
utilities and communications infrastructure;
space management.”
35
CASE STUDY
Name: Luke
Job Role: Facilities Assistant
Employer: Petchey Academy
Luke has been taking the facilities management apprenticeship for 18
months.
He'd previously been working as a full-time shelf-stacker in a
supermarket and was offered the chance of management training.
But he wanted a job with more variety and had heard about facilities
management and its wide remit through a relative.
After finding out what was involved, Luke applied for a job vacancy as
facilities assistant at the academy. He was successful and started the
level 3 facilities management apprenticeship straight away.
"My job was as a facilities assistant and this training has been a great
chance of learning about all the different aspects involved in
maintaining a building. Every day is different; I love this job and
understanding all the hidden aspects of a building that work to keep it
functioning efficiently.
"My role involves monitoring the energy readings; making sure
batteries and appliances work; that things are getting fixed. We're in
a school so the kids often break things.
"Since starting my job in FM, my aim has been to work my way up
from the bottom so that one day I can be a facilities manager. I've got
the experience in an education setting but I'd like to work as a
facilities manager anywhere."
36
Name: Marcus
Job Role: Facilities Assistant
Employer: RCT Homes
CASE STUDY
Marcus is employed by RCT Homes in Wales. In his role as an in-house
facilities manager he is responsible for: preparing boardrooms;
arranging refreshments; performing general administrative duties;
and ensuring that the lighting and heating systems operate
effectively.
“Now that I’ve been working in facilities management for a while, I
can really recognise the how vital it is to the business – for instance, if
you’ve got bad facilities management it has a knock on effect on the
reputation of the company and external clients are not going to come
back and we are not going to generate the business.”
To improve his knowledge and skills Marcus undertook an
Apprenticeship in facilities management.
“It has made me much more aware of my surroundings and it has
bought up my confidence in the facilities side of things – I understand
the policies and procedures associated with my job, I can recognise
the dangers, and I have a better understanding of how the
organisation works.”
Marcus hopes that his facilities management experience will help him
develop a career in project management in the future.
37
CASE STUDY Name: Rishi
Job Role: Facilities Assistant
Employer: John Laing Integrated Services
Rishi has been a facilities management apprentice employed by John
Laing Integrated Services.
His duties include: carrying out daily inspections; tracking work
orders; raising purchase orders for materials; and processing any
complaints.
“I do like working in facilities management. There’s enough variety to
sustain my enthusiasm for it because facilities management is such a
diverse discipline I get a chance to learn about a number of different
areas like procurement, finance, legislation and security.”
“Honestly, I didn’t know what facilities management was at school. I
understood the component parts of facilities management like
security, cleaning and general support services, but I didn’t know
about the umbrella term ‘facilities management’.”
“I do have to explain what facilities management is to my friends. Like
me at school they also know about the various aspects that are
associated with facilities management but don’t know that these
different elements can all add up to one cohesive discipline.”
38
CASE STUDY Name: Robert
Job Role: Facilities Manager
Employer: Ceredigion County Council
Robert has been employed by Ceredigion County Council for 20 years
and is responsible for managing and maintaining the council offices.
Before working for the council, Robert had a career in the
construction industry.
“When these offices were coming online, they realised they needed a
facilities manager to run the whole building and a senior caretaker to
help him get the work done. So the job was advertised and I went for
the post and I was successful.”
“I enjoy my job, I really do. There’s never a day gone by in the 20 years
I’ve worked here that I have thought ‘Oh God I’ve got to go to work
today’ I’ve always looked forward to getting here! There is so much
variety, no two days are the same and that’s what I do like there is
such a wide spread of things we’re doing”.
To improve his knowledge and skills Robert undertook an
Apprenticeship in facilities management.
“Now I’ve completed the training I feel better qualified to deal with
people because I can appreciate the different aspects of everybody’s
needs in the building – it’s not just looking at it from your own point of
view, you’ve also got to be able to look at other scenarios as well.”
39
CASE STUDY Name: Alex
Job Role: Executive Chief Manager
Employer: Eurest Services
Alex is the Executive Chief Manager employed by Eurest Services. As
well as looking after the catering and hospitality, he helps manage the
support services side such as the cleaning; porterage; reception;
switchboard; security; office supplies and support; post and
deliveries; audio visual support and pest control.
"Facilities management seemed an obvious next step for me. Lots of
people are moving into it as companies try to streamline their services
and bring them under one provider."
The Apprenticeship was carried out in the workplace while Alex
continued his day job. What he learned has helped him cope with his
job in a more efficient and methodical manner.
"Everything I've been taught I've been able to put into practice in my
job. I drew a great deal from the theoretical side of FM such as how to
integrate and implement services and best identify client needs. I was
also taught about contractual elements like service level agreements,
budgeting, finance and key performance indicators
"I held a presentation for our company directors about the
Apprenticeship. I was nervous but it went well. I think shows how
much importance Compass is placing on the FM Apprenticeship and
how it recognises the business benefits of having a highly skilled set of
facilities managers in such a competitive industry."
40
CASE STUDY Name: Rachel
Job Role: General Services Manager
Employer: Eurest Services
Rachel is the General Services Manager at Eurest Services and is
responsible for six sites in the South East including their London
offices.
Rachel oversees management of services such as the catering and
hospitality; cleaning; porterage; reception; switchboard; security;
office supplies and support; post and deliveries; and pest control.
Rachel moved into FM a year ago after working for Eurest Services for
28 years in a catering role. She enrolled onto the FM Advanced
Apprenticeship as part of her professional development.
"The Apprenticeship has been an excellent learning experience. It
covered all aspects of FM including the effective delivery of services,
leadership and management, budgets and health and safety.”
A training provider delivered the course through sessions in the
workplace once a month. The rest was carried out electronically
through email assignments and projects.
"I'm now more confident in my job, especially in managing people.
The course consolidated the on-the-job experience and know-how I'd
already gained in my year working as a facilities manager. Much of
the learning came from drawing on the experiences of other
colleagues on the course.
"My employer now has a highly qualified and valued team of people
who are a real asset to the FM side."
41
CASE STUDY
Name: David
Job Role: Energy Assessor/Surveyor
Employer: Valleys to Coast Housing
David is a Domestic Energy Assessor and Surveyor employed by Valleys to
Coast Housing in Wales. He first became interested in surveying while doing
office work and thought that becoming an energy assessor would be a good
route into the industry.
“The main part of the job is looking after Energy Performance Certificates – I
go out to properties and do the inspections, generally when they are empty.
I also go general inspections to assess any problems reported by tenants.
“I suppose the thing I really like about the job is the variety, it’s out and
about not stuck in the office all day. It’s just a great place to work; I like the
people and enjoy the role. I plan to stay in my current position for the long-
term so I can carry on learning and gaining experience with the support of
my manager.”
For the past five years David has aspired to become a Chartered Surveyor
and leapt at the chance to undertake an Apprenticeship in Surveying and
Property Maintenance to develop his skills and knowledge as part of the SPF
training programme in Wales.
“The qualification has really helped, I knew a lot of the stuff but it gave me a
general overview of surveying so when they do bigger projects I know more
and I’ve got a better overall understanding not just about my part but the
entire process.
“With this now, I’m hoping to get onto a degree course so the training has
really helped me on the way to becoming a chartered surveyor. In five years’
time, I’d ideally like to be close to or a chartered surveyor specialising in the
development side of things”.
42
CASE STUDY
Former science teacher Andrea has been working as a full-time self-
employed energy assessor since 2009. “I’ve always been interested in how
energy is used as ultimately we are going to run out of accessible oil, gas
and coal and we should not waste the resources we’ve got.
“As an energy assessor I am trained to look at the physical aspects of a
building that affect its thermal properties such as how thick the walls are;
how it’s constructed and insulated; it’s heating system and controls”.
Most of her clients are estate agents in sales and lettings that must ensure
Energy Performance Certificates are carried out if a property is sold or
rented.
Andrea studied the Level 3 ABBE Certificate in Energy Advice with Level 4
Renewable Technologies last year, a six month course that gave her the
skills to become an energy advisor helping to reduce people’s fuel
requirements.
“As an energy advisor I would discuss a person’s use of the property. Do they
use the controls appropriately and efficiently? Their house may be well
insulated but if there are draughts and inefficient appliances energy saving
can still be made. An advisor’s job is about achieving these improvements
through encouraging people to think and act differently.
“I have put together a package offering my services as an energy advisor
and am hoping the forthcoming Green Deal will create opportunities for
more work. There is now a greater awareness of energy usage because of
rising energy bills – it is important for people to be better informed”.
Name: Andrea
Job Role: Energy Assessor/Advisor
Employer: Self-Employed
43
FURTHER INFORMATION
44
Interested in a Career in FM?
Get Careers Advice
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Call us on 08000 567 160. We can give you the information you need to make informed decisions about your career options
Prefer to email...? Email us at [email protected] or submit your inquiry via our website at http://www.assetskills.org/CareersandTraining
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Access Careers Information
Job Profiles Job profiles provide you with basic information about job roles in the industry, including typical duties and salary information.
Find them at: http://www.assetskills.org/FindYourWay /CareerIdeas.aspx
Sector Career Guides
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http://www.assetskills.org/CareersandTraining/CareersHome.aspx
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information?
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Access Labour Market
Information
Careers IAG Report
Asset Skills produces a labour market intelligence report specifically designed to help careers advisors. It is available
from: http://www.assetskills.org/Research /LabourMarketInformation/LabourMarket.aspx
State of the Sector and Nation
Reports
These reports can provide valuable information about how the sectors and nations are faring. They are available
from:http://www.assetskills.org/Research/LabourMarketInformation/LabourMarket.aspx
HOW CAN ASSET SKILLS HELP YOU?
Asset Skills offers free careers
services to all. We provide the
information your career advisor
and you need to make informed
decisions about your career path.
Please Note: Asset Skills also offers free
additional services to schools and
employers, such as helping schools find
employers that are willing to support
school activities. For further information
please contact: [email protected]
45
The British Institute of
Facilities Management
(BIFM) www.bifm.org.uk
BIFM is the professional
body for facilities
management in the UK. It
delivers a range of services
and benefits including:
resources, qualifications,
training and networking.
The British Pest Control
Association (BPCA)
www.bpca.org.uk
BPCA is a not for profit
organisation which
represents the interests and
needs of the pest
management industry. It
provides access to pest
control research, training
and advertises job
opportunities.
The Chartered Institution
of Building Services
Engineers (CIBSE)
www.cibse.org
CIBSE is the standard setter
and authority on building
services engineering. It
provides technical
resources, training and
events.
The Chartered Institute of
Building (CIOB)
www.ciob.org.uk
CIOB aims to raise
professional standards and
provide careers guidance,
advertise jobs and
recommend qualifications.
The Facilities Management
Association (FMA)
www.fmassociation.org.uk
FMA is a trade association
with a specific section for
young facilities managers.
The National Pest
Technicians Association
(NPTA) www.npta.org.uk
NPTA is a nationally
recognised pest control
association providing
information on training and
events, a quarterly
magazine on the industry
and technical documents.
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) www.rics.org
RICS is the world’s leading
professional body for
qualifications and standards
in land, property and
construction.
Those who undertake RICS
approved qualifications can
become chartered
surveyors and members.
DIRECTORY: PROFESSIONAL BODIES
46
ABBE
www.abbeqa.co.uk/
ABBE is an awarding body
for qualifications in facilities
management, energy
assessment and advice.
The British Institute of
Facilities Management
(BIFM) www.bifm.org.uk
BIFM is an awarding body
for qualifications in facilities
management
The British Pest Control
Association (BPCA)
www.bpca.org.uk
BPCA is the awarding body
for qualifications in pest
control.
City & Guilds
www.cityandguilds.com
City & Guilds is an awarding
body for qualifications in
facilities management,
energy assessment and
advice.
EDI
www.ediplc.com
EDI is an awarding body for
qualifications in energy
assessment and advice.
EDEXCEL
www.edexcel.com
EDEXCEL is an awarding
body for qualifications in
facilities management.
Institute of Leadership &
Management (ILM)
www.i-l-m.com
ILM is an awarding body for
qualifications in facilities
management.
Food and Drinks
Qualifications (FDQ)
www.fdq.org.uk
FDQ is an awarding body for
qualifications in facilities
management.
Waste Management
Industry Training &
Advisory Board (WAMITAB)
www.wamitab.org.uk
WAMITAB is an awarding
body for qualifications in
facilities management.
DIRECTORY: AWARDING BODIES
47
Careers Advice Websites
Asset Skills
www.asseetskills.org
Careers Box
www.careersbox.co.uk
Career Player
www.careerplayer.com
Careers Service NI
www.nidirect.gov.uk/careers
Careers Wales
www.careerswales.com
Connexions
www.connexions-direct.com
Find Your Way
www.findyourway.co.uk
Graduate Talent Pool
www.graduatetalentpool.direct.gov.uk
ICould
www.icould.com
Learn Direct
www.learndirect.co.uk
Milk Round
www.milkround.com
National Apprenticeships Service
www.apprenticeships.org.uk
National Careers Service
www.careersadvice.direct.gov.uk
Open University
www.open.ac.uk/careers
Prospects
www.prospects.ac.uk
Russell Group
www.russellgroup.ac.uk
Skills Development Agency (Scotland)
www.myworldofwork.co.uk
Networking
www.facebook.com
www.linkedin.com
DIRECTORY: CAREERS INFORMATION
48
AP
PEN
DIX
1:
FAC
ILIT
IES
MA
NA
GER
PROFESSIONAL BODIES
British Institute of Facilities Management (BIFM) Affiliate, Associate, Member and Certified levels of membership are available. www.bifm.org.uk Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) As a surveyor with membership to RICS you can use the title Chartered Facilities Management Surveyor provided you meet the RICS criteria. www.rics.org Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) Student, associate, incorporated, member and fellow levels of membership are available. www.ciob.org.uk Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) has FM specialist interest groups. www.cibse.org
OPPORTUNITIES You could find work with a wide range of organisations as an in-house facilities manager. This could be in any area of business including public sector and non-profit making companies, or other large businesses such as law firms and banking. Alternatively, you could be employed by specialist contractors, or by large multi-service companies that provide a full range of design, build, finance and management services. If you have strong administrative skills and experience, you may be able to work your way up to a facilities management position. For example, some people take on wider responsibilities after working in a management job in areas such as building maintenance, cleaning, catering or security.
STA
ND
AR
D Q
UA
LIFI
CA
TIO
N L
EVEL
S
L 7
L 6 L5 L4 L3 L2
QUALIFICATIONS AND TRAINING
MSc or Postgraduate Diploma in Facilities Management (Job titles include Director of Services, Head of Global Facilities, Deputy Director)
Bachelor’s Degree in Facilities Management Other relevant degrees such as Surveying, Planning, Management etc. BIFM Level 6 Diploma in Facilities Management (Job titles include Regional Director, Head of Department,)
Foundation degree in FM BIFM level 5 award, certificate or diploma (for middle/senior management staff that have considerable experience and are responsible for complex issues). (Job titles include Facilities Manager, Area Facilities Manager)
BIFM Level 4 Award, Certificate or Diploma (for experienced managers who are responsible for a range of FM functions) Level 4 Diploma in in Facilities Management Practice (Job titles include Assistant Facilities Manager, Team Leader)
Relevant A levels such as maths, law, business studies Level 3 Apprenticeship in Facilities Management Level 3 Certificate in in Facilities Management Practice ILM 3 Level Qualifications in Facilities Management (the standard qualification for people new to the industry) Level 3 Property and Facilities Supervision Certificate (Job titles include Facilities Administrator and Facilities Coordinator)
SKILLS AND PERSONAL QUALITIES *Technical knowledge of building service *The ability to manage a complex workload *Customer management skills *Legal and Health & Safety knowledge *Problem solving skills *Decision making ability *IT Skills *Good spoken and written skills
SUITABLE PREVIOUS CAREERS INCLUDE
*Hospitality *Surveying *Cleaning/Caretaking *Business or Finance *Engineering *Security *Business Services *Catering *Asset Management *Land Management *Block Management *Property Development *Trades – Electrical, Plumbing, Heating & Ventilation etc
Level 2 Apprenticeship in Facilities Management Level 2 Property Caretaking and Facilities Services Certificate
