Introduction

Building operators are dedicated to the difficult duty of ensuring that all occupants of the building in which they work are reasonably pleased with its safety, security, and functionality.

Similar Job Titles

• Building Maintenance Operator
• Building Caretaker

Typical Job Responsibilities

What do Building Operators do?

A Building Operator would typically need to:

• Perform a variety of tasks to ensure the building they are working in is up to code and can function efficiently
• Inspect the inside and outside of the building regularly to make sure its physical structure remains well maintained
• Monitor and maintain the building’s heating, electrical, mechanical, and security equipment
• Undertake minor electrical and plumbing work, such as changing light bulbs, replacing furnace filters, and repairing leaks
• Vacuum, sweep, and mop common areas in the building and dust communal furniture
• Carry out or supervise housekeeping and grounds-keeping activities; respond to complaints from tenants; liaise between tenants and owners
• Deal with emergencies, such as power failure, floods, and fires; plan and run fire drills as per standard safety norms
• Inspect fire alarms and sprinkler systems for malfunctions; operate elevators to transport people between floors
• Be on the lookout for potential problems and report issues that need experts before they grow into full-blown disasters
• Recommend changes that make the building more efficient, reduce operating costs, or guarantee compliance with environmental, building, and safety codes
• Supervise the work of maintenance staff, and contractors hired to make repairs to establish that they are following safe work practices
• Take care of the equipment; keep records of all work done; keep track of supplies and equipment; help with selection and purchase of new equipment, if necessary
• Monitor access to restricted areas while making sure they remain safe, clean, and functional
• Monitor security cameras or other security devices for signs of intrusion, theft and other illegal activities
• Assist in the recruitment and training of apprentices and recruits; ask for feedback to make the best decisions possible

Standard Work Environment

Building Operators are often employed in major commercial or institutional structures such as office towers, hospitals, or factories. They work both indoors and outside in a single or group of structures.

Work Schedule

Full-time Building Operators work 36 to 40 hours per week, including evenings and weekends. Emergencies may necessitate being on call 24/7/365 and working extra.

Employers

Seeking a new job may appear difficult. Freelancing and working for yourself are realistic possibilities. Building Operators can improve their job search by soliciting referrals from their network, contacting firms directly, using job search platforms, attending job fairs, leveraging social media, and contacting staffing agencies.

Building Operators are generally employed by:

• The Government
• Educational Institutions
• Regional Health Authorities
• Property Management & Real Estate Companies
• Hotels
• Shopping Malls
• Factories
• Owners & Operators of Large Buildings

Unions / Professional Organizations

Professional organizations and groups, such as The Building Service Contractors Association International (BSCAI), are essential for Building Operators who want to further their professional growth or interact with other professionals in their industry or employment. Participation in one or more of these organizations adds value to your resume while strengthening your credentials and qualifications.

Workplace Challenges

• Unsafe work environment as a result of lack of proper maintenance and consequent breakdown of machines and equipment
• Physically demanding work that involves lifting heavy objects, climbing ladders, and working in cramped locations or awkward positions
• Exposure to hazardous materials, such as asbestos, lead, or chemicals
• Lack of work-life balance when on-call or working overtime
• The need to work in extreme weather conditions

Suggested Work Experience

Building Operators can rise from entry-level employment to Senior Building Operator, Manager, or Supervisor positions based on performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional certifications. Some operators go on to start their own building repair or management companies.

Recommended Qualifications

Although entrepreneurial applicants with a high school certificate or GED (General Education Development) can gain entry-level work, most have an accredited bachelor’s degree or associate degree in building science or construction management.

A second journeyperson qualification in one or more trades from a trade or technical school will help you.

Pursue English, maths, and computer science in high school.

While completing an academic degree does not guarantee a lucrative job, contact professional associations and prospective companies to research various educational options and employment opportunities before committing to a specific educational path.

Certifications, Licenses and Registration

Certification from an impartial and reputable organisation in workplace risks management information, workplace safety, and first aid will help future Building Operators stand out in a competitive job market and allow them to become independent consultants.

Certification normally requires a mix of education, experience, and examination, though criteria vary by location. By including a Code of Ethics, successful certification programmes defend the public welfare.

Building Operators must usually have a valid driver’s licence. In addition to an HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) licence, those who intend to work in major institutions such as hospitals may require a genuine licence to demonstrate completion of an approved training programme.

An application, processing fees, an examination, and applicable education and experience are often required for licensure. Check with local or national building maintenance organizations to see whether you need to be licensed.

You may also be required to go through an employment background check, which includes, but is not limited to, a person’s work history, education, credit history, motor vehicle records (MVRs), criminal record, medical history, usage of social media, and drug testing.

Projected Career Map

Building Operators can rise from entry-level employment to Senior Building Operator, Manager, or Supervisor positions based on performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional certifications. Some operators go on to start their own building repair or management companies.

Job Prospects

Candidates with significant training in HVAC, electrical systems, pipes, and plumbing have the best job prospects.

Beneficial Professional Development

CPD will assist an active Building Operator in developing personal skills and competency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning.

Professional advancement occurs as a result of gaining more experience and knowledge in building safety, facilities management, and supervision. Building Operators who are certified in sustainability and energy efficiency technology and practices are in high demand.

Conclusion

Building operators prioritize preventative maintenance and immediate repair of the building’s heating, mechanical, and electrical systems to save tenants and owners money and trouble.

Advice from the Wise

“Think of a day where you are completely satisfied at the end of it. It’s not a day to sit around doing nothing; it’s a day when you’ve had everything to do and completed it.”