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About the facilities management industry

Facilities management offers a lot of flexibility. There are opportunities for part-time, full-time and contract work. Part-time opportunities may mean you can often fit in work around other commitments, like childcare or college.

Cleaning is a great occupation if you don’t yet have many qualifications. You can get a job without any, and gain them as you work.

Work experience as a cleaner can also open the door to starting your own business.

Jobs in the facilities management industry

There are a wide variety of jobs available in the facilities management industry. Many of them now offer full-time opportunities, including street cleaning, caretakers and car valets.

Whether you become a pest control technician or a cleaner in an office, a hospital, a supermarket or a private household, there is plenty of choice in the type of job you could do.

Facilities management is also a good place to gain management experience. If you are already a manager, a job in cleaning could be good choice – there’s currently a shortage of managers in this area.

Advantages of working in the facilities management industry

There are many advantages to working in facilities management industry including:

• excellent opportunities - there are a wide range of jobs available, both full and part-time
• flexibility - part-time opportunities mean you can often fit in work around other commitments
• varied working conditions - working in offices, hospitals or outdoors
• good prospects - a good place to gain management experience

Real-life examples

Nadeem Madhok, School Caretaker

I started out as the assistant caretaker, but when the head caretaker retired I got the job. I didn’t have any qualifications when I started, but I’ve been working hard towards getting an NVQ in facilities management. I love the variety of my job - no two days are the same! I now earn about £16,500.

Phil Reilly, Pest Control Technician

My job is really interesting and varied. Pests are here to stay - so we always need fresh talent to battle the bugs. Whether I’m controlling insects, rats or mice, it’s great to see the happy faces when I make someone’s home or office safe and secure from pests. I’ve now got lots of experience and earn £25,000.

Find a job in this sector

Find out more about training and careers in the facilities management sector by visiting the websites below:

• British Institute of Cleaning Services Opens new window

• British Pest Control Association Opens new window

• Asset Skills Opens new window

• The Recruitment and Employment Confederation Opens new window

More useful information

For more information on working in this sector and gaining the skills you need, talk to a Jobcentre Plus adviser by calling 0845 606 0234.

They can also tell you what help and support is available to you to help you into work.

• Find your local Jobcentre Plus office Opens new window

• Help and advice when applying for a job