Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Building Information Modeling • LEV Testing • Risk Assessment

Building Management System

Term from Facilities Management industry explained for recruiters

A Building Management System (BMS) is like a building's brain that helps control and monitor various building functions such as heating, cooling, lighting, security, and ventilation. Think of it as a central control system that helps facility managers keep buildings running efficiently and comfortably. It's also sometimes called a Building Automation System (BAS) or Building Control System (BCS). This technology helps reduce energy costs, maintain comfort for occupants, and makes managing large buildings much easier. When candidates mention BMS experience, they're talking about working with these control systems to manage building operations.

Examples in Resumes

Managed and operated Building Management System for a 50-story commercial building

Reduced energy costs by 30% through optimizing BMS settings and monitoring

Trained staff on Building Automation System operations and maintenance

Implemented new Building Control System across multiple facility locations

Typical job title: "Building Management System Operators"

Also try searching for:

Facilities Manager Building Systems Engineer BMS Technician Building Controls Specialist Building Automation Engineer Facilities Maintenance Manager Building Systems Operator

Where to Find Building Management System Operators

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop a long-term maintenance strategy for a building's BMS?

Expected Answer: A strong answer should cover creating preventive maintenance schedules, planning for system upgrades, budget management, and strategies for training staff. They should also mention experience with analyzing system performance data to make improvements.

Q: How have you handled a major BMS failure in the past?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate leadership in crisis situations, knowledge of backup procedures, ability to coordinate with various departments and vendors, and examples of implementing preventive measures after the incident.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What strategies have you used to reduce energy consumption using a BMS?

Expected Answer: Candidate should discuss experience with adjusting temperature settings, implementing scheduling programs, using occupancy sensors, and analyzing energy usage data to find savings opportunities.

Q: How do you ensure proper integration between different building systems?

Expected Answer: Look for understanding of how various systems (HVAC, lighting, security) work together, experience with system integration projects, and knowledge of troubleshooting common integration issues.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic components of a Building Management System?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic parts like controllers, sensors, user interface, and how they work together to control building functions like heating, cooling, and lighting.

Q: How do you respond to a tenant complaint about temperature?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic troubleshooting skills, understanding of BMS interface to check and adjust settings, and good customer service approach.