The process to become a facilities coordinator varies widely, depending on the industry and the type of facility. In general, a facilities coordinator is responsible for managing the different trades and facilities management team members. He or she is typically stationed within the facility and can meet with staff on a regular basis. In many industries, the facilities coordinator is a management level position, with direct reports and a range of other responsibilities.
There is no specific training program to become a facilities coordinator. Most employers prefer candidates with some type of post-secondary education. This can be a business diploma or training in a skilled trade, such as carpentry or electricity. From an employer's perspective there are several key skills that are required to become a facilities coordinator: knowledge about facilities management, ability to work with skilled trades and related professionals, communications, and conflict resolution.
Facilities management principles are focused on the physical components of any building. This includes the building envelope or exterior, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, landscaping, and overall maintenance. In most organization, the facilities are central to the operation of the business or organization. Maintaining that location in good repair and ensuring that operational costs are minimized in essential.
Once you become a facilities coordinator, your primary task is to work with others. This includes staff and skilled trades. He or she may be called in to repair or install a specific component or piece of equipment. The ability to provide clear directions to external contractors is essential to keeping maintenance costs low.
There are many occasions where the solution recommended by skilled professionals is too expensive or time consuming to complete. Instead, the scope of the project is reduced to straightforward repair or maintenance. The ability to maintain good relations while changing the focus is very important.
Written and oral communication skills are central to the role of facilities coordinator. He or she must be clear, concise, and provide instructions that cannot be misunderstood. In this position, there are often written reports and project specifications that are intended for different audiences. The ability to write for both business owners and technical staff is very important.
Conflict resolution is a very important skill if you want to become a facilities coordinator. He or she must be able to diffuse tense situations, identify and implement a resolution to complex problems, and work with a range of personalities. Many people take short courses to develop the required skills.
