Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Access Control • Delinquency Rate • Emergency Response Plan

Building Systems

Term from Property Management industry explained for recruiters

Building Systems refers to the essential components that make a building work properly and stay comfortable for its occupants. This includes heating and cooling (HVAC), electrical systems, plumbing, fire safety, and security systems. When someone mentions experience with building systems in property management, they're talking about understanding how these different parts work together and how to maintain them. Think of it like the body's vital organs - each system has its own job, but they all need to work together to keep the building 'healthy' and functioning.

Examples in Resumes

Managed preventive maintenance schedules for Building Systems across a 10-building portfolio

Supervised upgrades to Building Systems including HVAC and security components

Reduced operational costs by 20% through efficient Building Systems management

Coordinated with vendors to maintain Building Systems and Building Infrastructure

Typical job title: "Building Systems Managers"

Also try searching for:

Facilities Manager Building Operations Manager Property Manager Building Engineer Building Systems Engineer Building Maintenance Manager Facility Operations Manager

Where to Find Building Systems Managers

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Boards

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop a building systems maintenance budget for a large property portfolio?

Expected Answer: A strong answer should include creating preventive maintenance schedules, analyzing historical cost data, considering equipment life cycles, and planning for both routine maintenance and potential emergency repairs. They should mention vendor management and cost-saving strategies.

Q: Tell me about a time you implemented a major building system upgrade. How did you manage the process?

Expected Answer: Look for experience in project management, budget control, minimizing tenant disruption, contractor coordination, and ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What steps do you take when troubleshooting a building system issue?

Expected Answer: Should describe a systematic approach: gathering information from tenants/staff, checking maintenance records, conducting initial assessment, prioritizing urgency, and knowing when to call in specialists.

Q: How do you ensure building systems comply with safety regulations?

Expected Answer: Should mention regular inspections, documentation, staying updated on code requirements, scheduling necessary certifications, and maintaining emergency response procedures.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the main building systems you're familiar with?

Expected Answer: Should be able to identify basic systems: HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire safety, security, and elevators, with basic understanding of how they function.

Q: How do you handle a tenant complaint about temperature issues?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic problem-solving: checking thermostats, verifying HVAC operation, communicating with tenants, and knowing when to escalate to senior staff or contractors.