A facilities manager oversees the buildings, systems, and operations that keep organizations running smoothly. It is strategic, in demand, and you can enter with an associate degree. Here is what the work involves, what it takes, and how to get in.
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Facilities managers keep buildings and their systems operating safely and efficiently. You make decisions about maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. You communicate with supervisors, staff, and contractors to solve problems and plan work. You monitor equipment and safety systems, identify issues before they become costly, and organize schedules to keep operations on track. You draw on knowledge of mechanical systems, security, customer service, and personnel management. The role blends hands-on problem-solving with leadership and planning.
Core work activities
Career video courtesy of CareerOneStop.
Facilities Managers earn a median of $106,660 a year, based on 2025 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and location.
The outlook is steady. Employment is projected to grow 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as average for all occupations, with about 13,200 openings a year.
Top skills
Knowledge areas
Most facilities managers start with an associate degree or equivalent preparation at the medium job zone level. Your education should cover administration, management, and public safety. Build skills in speaking, active listening, reading comprehension, and critical thinking. Many people move into facilities management from related roles in maintenance, operations, or building services. As you gain experience, you develop the monitoring and decision-making skills that define the role. Consider internships or entry-level positions in facilities or operations to test the fit.
Facilities management has multiple entry points: some come from maintenance backgrounds, others from operations or administrative roles. If you are exploring which path fits your timeline and strengths, Pathly can map the facility manager path that fits you and work through it with your counselor to build a clear next step.
You do not need a license to work as a facility manager, but professional certifications can strengthen your resume.
Common certifications
You are enterprising, comfortable making decisions and leading operations. You think creatively about problems, listen well, and communicate clearly with people at all levels.
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Last updated July 1, 2026.
Data sources. Career details from the O*NET 30.3 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under CC BY 4.0. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. Salary and outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025 wages; 2024–2034 projections), delivered via the CareerOneStop API. Certification, licensing, wage, and outlook data from CareerOneStop, sponsored by USDOL/ETA and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).