Top 11 Assistant Facility Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for assistant facility managers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that can set them apart from other candidates. By having certifications, potential employers will have confidence in the candidate’s ability to perform their duties and responsibilities competently. Certified assistant facility managers will also have access to more job opportunities due to their specialized skillset. Furthermore, certifications can provide career advancement opportunities and give an individual recognition within the industry.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Assistant Facility Managers and explain how they can help advance their career.

What are Assistant Facility Manager Certifications?

Assistant Facility Manager Certification is a professional certification program designed to help professionals in the facility management industry increase their knowledge, skills and abilities related to managing facilities. This certification program is offered by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA). The goal of this certification program is to help individuals become better facility managers, enabling them to better serve their organizations and customers.

The Assistant Facility Manager Certification program provides an understanding of the essential elements of facility management, including operations and maintenance, planning and design, finance and business, environment and risk management, communications and technology, customer service, human resources and leadership. It also covers topics such as project management principles and practices, legal issues in facility management, quality assurance processes in facility management and sustainability initiatives. Through this program participants will gain the knowledge they need to effectively manage a wide range of facilities.

The benefits of obtaining the Assistant Facility Manager Certification include improved job performance, increased opportunities for career advancement, increased earning potential, enhanced credibility with employers or clients, access to a network of other certified professionals in the industry as well as access to professional development opportunities. With increased knowledge comes increased confidence in decision making; having the right tools can make all the difference when it comes to managing facilities professionally.

Pro Tip: When considering assistant facility manager certification, make sure to research the certification requirements and ensure that you meet all of the necessary criteria before investing in any additional training or certifications. Additionally, be sure to ask employers in your area what type of certification they prefer so you can make an informed decision about which certification is best for your career goals.

Related: What does an Assistant Facility Manager do?

Top 11 Assistant Facility Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Assistant Facility Managers today.

1. Certified Facility Manager (CFM)

Certified Facility Manager (CFM) is a professional certification for facility managers. It is offered by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA). The CFM program is designed to assess and recognize the knowledge and experience of facility managers in areas such as operations, maintenance, finance, human resources, safety and security.

The CFM exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering 10 domains of facility management. It takes approximately 4 hours to complete the exam. To be eligible to take the CFM exam, applicants must have at least 5 years of full-time facility management experience within the last 10 years; or 3 years of full-time experience plus a bachelor’s degree; or 2 years of full-time experience plus an associate’s degree; or 1 year of full-time experience plus a high school diploma or equivalent.

The cost to take the CFM exam is $495 for IFMA members and $795 for non-members. The cost includes an application fee, study materials and one retake if necessary. After passing the exam, there is an annual renewal fee of $95 for IFMA members and $195 for non-members.

2. Certified Professional in Facility Management (FP-C)

The Certified Professional in Facility Management (FP-C) is a professional certification designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the field of facility management. The FP-C certification is offered by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA), an organization dedicated to promoting and advancing the profession of facility management.

To qualify for the FP-C certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements including: having at least five years of experience in a facility management role, completing at least 40 hours of continuing education related to facility management, and passing an exam administered by IFMA.

The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions and covers topics such as financial management, operations and maintenance, human resources, project management, and sustainability. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and can be taken at any IFMA approved testing center.

The cost of the FP-C exam varies depending on whether or not you are an IFMA member. For non-members, the cost is $400 USD; for members, it is $300 USD. Additionally, there is a one-time application fee of $50 USD that must be paid when applying for the certification.

Overall, it typically takes several months to prepare for and pass the FP-C exam; however, once you have passed the exam you will become a certified professional in facility management with all of its associated benefits.

3. Certified Building Maintenance Supervisor (CBMS)

Certified Building Maintenance Supervisor (CBMS) is a professional certification program developed by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA). It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills and abilities required to effectively manage building maintenance operations. The CBMS program is designed to provide an industry-recognized credential that will help employers identify qualified maintenance supervisors.

The CBMS program requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam that tests their knowledge of building maintenance operations, including topics such as safety, budgeting, energy management, preventive maintenance and green building practices. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Applicants must also meet certain educational requirements in order to be eligible for the exam.

In order to get certified as a CBMS, applicants must first apply for certification through IFMA’s website. Once approved, they will receive an authorization letter from IFMA which contains instructions on how to register for the exam. After registering for the exam, applicants must pay a fee of $250 USD in order to take it. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their CBMS certificate in the mail within four weeks.

The cost of becoming a Certified Building Maintenance Supervisor is $250 USD for the application fee and exam fee combined.

4. Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM)

Certified Plant Maintenance Manager (CPMM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate expertise in the management of plant maintenance operations. The CPMM program is administered by the Association for Facilities Engineering (AFE), and it is designed to help employers identify qualified personnel who have the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage their plant maintenance operations.

The CPMM program requires that applicants demonstrate a minimum of five years of experience managing a plant maintenance operation, as well as completion of an approved educational course related to plant maintenance management or equivalent experience. In addition, applicants must pass an examination that covers topics such as safety, equipment reliability, preventive/predictive maintenance, inventory control, and cost control.

It typically takes about six months to complete the application process for the CPMM certification. During this time, applicants must submit their application form along with supporting documents such as proof of education and experience. After submitting the application form and all supporting documents, applicants will be notified if they are eligible to take the exam. Once approved for the exam, applicants can register for a testing date at one of AFE’s authorized testing centers.

The cost of obtaining the CPMM certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of AFE. For members, there is an initial fee of $150 plus an additional fee of $175 for each exam taken; for non-members, there is an initial fee of $300 plus an additional fee of $200 for each exam taken. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam at certain testing centers.

5. Certified Energy Manager (CEM)

A Certified Energy Manager (CEM) is a professional designation given by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). The CEM program is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge, skills and abilities to identify, analyze and implement energy efficiency measures in commercial, industrial and institutional facilities.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CEM program. To get certified, applicants must first pass an exam administered by the AEE. The exam consists of a written section covering topics such as energy management principles and practices, economics and finance, engineering fundamentals, energy conservation concepts, energy auditing techniques and other related topics. Once applicants have passed this exam they must then complete a portfolio project demonstrating their ability to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the country you are located in. In the US it typically costs around $1,000 for all materials including application fees and exam fees. Additional expenses may include travel costs associated with attending training courses or seminars.

Overall, becoming a Certified Energy Manager can be an expensive process but it also provides individuals with valuable skills that can help them advance their career in energy management and sustainability.

6. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP)

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP) is a professional certification offered by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). LEED APs are individuals who have demonstrated knowledge of green building principles and practices, as well as the ability to apply them in a variety of contexts. The LEED AP credential is recognized internationally as a mark of excellence in green building design and construction.

The LEED AP credential requires passing an exam that tests one’s knowledge of green building principles, practices, and processes. The exam is offered at various locations throughout the year. It typically takes around 3-4 hours to complete the exam, depending on the individual’s level of preparation.

To become a LEED AP, individuals must first register for an account with USGBC and pay an application fee ($50 for members/$100 for non-members). Once registered, individuals can choose which specialty area they would like to pursue (e.g., new construction or existing buildings). After selecting a specialty area, individuals must pass the corresponding exam before being awarded their LEED AP credential.

The cost to take the LEED AP exam varies depending on whether you are a USGBC member or not: $200 for members and $400 for non-members. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with studying for the exam such as books or online courses.

7. International Facility Management Association's Facilities Management Professional (FMP)

The International Facility Management Association’s (IFMA) Facilities Management Professional (FMP) is a professional credential designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated competency in the field of facilities management. It is a globally recognized certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field, and indicates their commitment to professional development.

To be eligible for the FMP credential, applicants must have at least three years of full-time facilities management experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. They must also pass a multiple-choice exam, which covers topics such as facility planning, operations and maintenance, finance and business, human factors, technology and equipment, environmental stewardship, emergency preparedness and security.

The exam typically takes about two hours to complete. It can be taken online or at one of IFMA’s testing centers around the world. The cost for the exam is $395 USD for members of IFMA or $495 USD for non-members. Once the exam has been successfully completed, applicants will receive their FMP credential within four to six weeks.

8. Building Commissioning Professional Certification (BCxP)

Building Commissioning Professional Certification (BCxP) is a professional certification program for building commissioning professionals. It is designed to recognize the knowledge and experience of individuals who are involved in the commissioning process. The BCxP certification program is administered by the Building Commissioning Association (BCA).

The BCxP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in commissioning activities through a combination of written and practical assessments. The assessment consists of an online examination, a written project report, and a practical assessment. Applicants must also complete an approved training course prior to taking the exam.

The BCxP certification takes approximately six months to complete, depending on the applicant’s availability and commitment level. To get started, applicants must register with BCA and pay the application fee. After registering, applicants will receive access to the online exam portal where they can take the exam at their own pace. Once completed, applicants will then submit their project report for review by BCA staff. Upon successful completion of both components, applicants will be awarded their BCxP certification.

The cost of obtaining BCxP certification varies depending on whether you are applying as an individual or as part of an organization. For individuals, there is a one-time application fee of $500 USD plus additional fees for any required training courses or other materials needed for completion of the program. Organizations may be eligible for discounted rates based on volume applications or other criteria set forth by BCA staff.

9. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers' Building Energy Assessment Professional (BEAP)

The Building Energy Assessment Professional (BEAP) is a certification program from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE). It is designed to help professionals identify energy efficiency opportunities in buildings and develop strategies for reducing energy use. The BEAP certification is based on a comprehensive assessment of building systems, including HVAC, lighting, insulation, windows and doors, hot water systems, and other energy-using equipment.

The BEAP certification requires completion of an online course that takes approximately 16 hours to complete. The course covers topics such as building science fundamentals, thermal comfort principles, building envelope design principles, HVAC system design principles, lighting system design principles, and renewable energy technologies. Upon successful completion of the course, applicants must pass an exam administered by ASHRAE in order to receive the BEAP certification.

The cost for the BEAP certification is $350 USD which includes the cost of the online course and the exam fee.

10. Project Management Professional Certification (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a globally recognized credential offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to recognize the knowledge, skills and abilities of individuals who have demonstrated experience in managing projects successfully. The PMP certification helps project managers demonstrate their expertise in leading and directing projects, as well as their commitment to professional development.

It typically takes between three to six months to complete all the requirements for the PMP certification. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have either a four-year degree or a high school diploma with at least 5 years of project management experience. In addition, applicants must also have 35 hours of project management education or training.

To get the PMP certification, applicants must first apply online at pmi.org and pay an application fee of $555 for members of PMI or $700 for non-members. Once approved, applicants can then register for the exam through Pearson VUE and pay an additional fee of $405 for members or $555 for non-members. The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions and has a time limit of 4 hours.

The cost of obtaining the PMP certification includes both the application fee and examination fee mentioned above, as well as any additional fees associated with taking courses or attending seminars related to project management.

11. Occupational Safety and Health Administration 10/30 Hour Certification Course

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) 10/30 Hour Certification Course is an educational program designed to help employers, supervisors, and employees recognize and reduce workplace hazards. The course covers a variety of topics related to workplace safety and health, such as hazard identification, accident prevention, emergency response plans, personal protective equipment, fire protection systems, and more. The 10-hour course is intended for entry-level workers, while the 30-hour course is designed for supervisors or workers with some safety responsibility.

The 10/30 Hour Certification Course typically takes two to four days to complete depending on the length of the class. The 10-hour course can be completed in one day if necessary. To get certified, students must attend the full duration of the course and pass a final exam with a score of 70 percent or higher.

The cost of the OSHA 10/30 Hour Certification Course varies by provider but generally ranges from $100-$200 per person. Some providers may offer discounts for group registrations or online courses.

Do You Really Need a Assistant Facility Manager Certificate?

An assistant facility manager certificate is not necessary for all people who are interested in a career in facility management. However, depending on the job requirements and qualifications needed, an assistant facility manager certificate can be beneficial.

For those looking to enter the field of facility management, a certificate may be advantageous in providing the individual with a better understanding of the processes involved in managing a building or complex. It can also demonstrate a level of commitment to the profession as well as provide evidence of knowledge and experience. Additionally, having an assistant facility manager certificate may open up more opportunities for advancement within the field.

For those already working in the field, obtaining a certificate may help set them apart from other applicants when applying for higher-level positions or promotions. A certification can also provide additional training and education to help further develop their skillset and expertise in managing facilities.

In conclusion, while it is not required for everyone to obtain an assistant facility manager certificate, it may be beneficial for some individuals looking to enter or advance within this field.

Related: Assistant Facility Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Assistant Facility Manager Certifications

1. What is an Assistant Facility Manager Certification?

Answer: An Assistant Facility Manager Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates the holder's knowledge and expertise in the field of facility management. It provides recognition of the individual's abilities to effectively manage the operations and maintenance of a building or facility.

2. How do I become certified as an Assistant Facility Manager?

Answer: To become certified as an Assistant Facility Manager, you must complete a designated course of study and pass an exam administered by a recognized organization such as the International Association of Certified Facility Managers (IACFM).

3. What are the benefits of being certified as an Assistant Facility Manager?

Answer: Being certified as an Assistant Facility Manager offers many benefits including increased job security, improved job opportunities, higher salary potential, and professional recognition. It also demonstrates your commitment to excellence in your field and can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs.

4. How long does it take to get certified as an Assistant Facility Manager?

Answer: Generally, it takes between 6-12 months to complete all requirements for certification depending on how much time you have available for studying and completing the exams. You can also opt for accelerated programs which offer shorter timelines for completion.

5. Is there any type of continuing education required after I am certified?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations require that holders maintain their certification by participating in continuing education activities such as attending conferences or taking online courses related to facility management topics.