Question 1

What is the difference between a facilities coordinator and a cleaner?

Accepted Answer

A facilities coordinator manages and coordinates cleaning operations, contractors and maintenance schedules rather than performing hands-on cleaning. They oversee cleaning teams, liaise with clients, manage budgets and support compliance with standards. Under the Cleaning Services Award 2020 (MA000022), facilities coordinators are typically classified at a higher level based on their supervisory and administrative duties.

Question 2

What award covers facilities coordinators in the cleaning industry?

Accepted Answer

Facilities coordinators working in cleaning services are typically covered by the Cleaning Services Award 2020 (MA000022). This award sets minimum pay rates, penalty rates and conditions for employees working in commercial cleaning and facilities management. Always verify which award applies to your specific business.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a facilities coordinator?

Accepted Answer

Under the Cleaning Services Award 2020, facilities coordinators are typically classified at Level 3 or Level 4, depending on their scope of responsibility, supervisory duties and decision-making authority. Higher levels apply for coordinators managing multiple sites or larger teams. See our Cleaning Services Award rates guide for current classifications.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a facilities coordinator job description?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract suitable candidates with coordination and management experience. You can reference the applicable award classification or use phrases like 'Award rates plus penalties' or 'Competitive salary based on experience.' Check the Cleaning Services Award 2020 for current rates.

Question 5

What qualifications do facilities coordinators need?

Accepted Answer

Facilities coordinator positions typically require previous experience in cleaning, facilities management or a supervisory role. Formal qualifications such as Certificate III or IV in Cleaning Operations or Facilities Management are highly valued. Computer literacy and administration skills are essential for scheduling, reporting and client communication.

Question 6

Do facilities coordinators need any certificates?

Accepted Answer

Most facilities coordinator roles require a National Police Check for working in secure sites. First Aid certificates, chemical handling training, and working at heights certification may be required depending on the sites managed. A valid driver's licence is often essential for travelling between sites.

Question 7

What experience should I look for in a facilities coordinator?

Accepted Answer

Look for candidates with previous cleaning industry experience, preferably in supervisory or coordination roles. Experience managing teams, liaising with clients, scheduling staff, handling budgets and ensuring quality standards is highly valued. Familiarity with cleaning industry software and compliance requirements is beneficial.

Question 8

Can I hire facilities coordinators without formal qualifications?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many successful facilities coordinators have progressed from hands-on cleaning roles into coordination positions through experience and on-the-job training. Strong organisational skills, people management abilities and problem-solving capabilities are often more important than formal qualifications, though relevant certifications are preferred.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent facilities coordinators?

Accepted Answer

Facilities coordinator roles are typically permanent (part-time or full-time) due to the ongoing nature of coordination, client relationships and administrative responsibilities. Permanent employment provides consistency in managing cleaning operations and contractor relationships. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to facilities coordinators?

Accepted Answer

Under the Cleaning Services Award 2020, penalty rates apply for work performed on Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, evenings and overnight shifts. Facilities coordinators may work standard business hours or varied hours depending on client needs and site access times. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 11

What are the minimum shift lengths for facilities coordinators?

Accepted Answer

Facilities coordinators are typically employed on a salary or minimum hours arrangement rather than short casual shifts. Full-time roles are 38 hours per week, while part-time coordinators have agreed regular hours. Check the Cleaning Services Award 2020 for specific requirements.

Question 12

What should I include in a facilities coordinator employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type (part-time/full-time), salary or hourly rate, applicable award, reporting structure, main duties including sites managed, vehicle and travel requirements, computer and phone equipment, uniform requirements if applicable. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

What are typical working hours for facilities coordinators?

Accepted Answer

Facilities coordinators typically work standard business hours (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) for office-based coordination tasks, but may need to visit sites early morning or evening to meet with cleaners or clients. Flexibility is important for attending site inspections, client meetings and responding to urgent issues. Using rostering software helps manage their own schedule alongside team coordination.

Question 14

Do facilities coordinators need to travel between sites?

Accepted Answer

Yes, multi-site travel is common for facilities coordinators. They visit sites to conduct quality inspections, meet with cleaning staff, address client concerns and oversee contractor work. A valid driver's licence and reliable vehicle are typically required. Ensure you compensate for travel time and expenses in accordance with the award.

Question 15

What breaks are facilities coordinators entitled to?

Accepted Answer

Under the Cleaning Services Award 2020, employees working more than 5 hours are entitled to an unpaid meal break. Paid rest breaks also apply based on hours worked. For coordinators working office-based roles, standard break arrangements apply. Use break planning tools to support compliance.

Question 16

How do facilities coordinators manage cleaner schedules?

Accepted Answer

Facilities coordinators are responsible for creating cleaning rosters, managing leave requests, coordinating cover for absences and ensuring adequate staffing at all sites. Using rostering software simplifies this process, allowing coordinators to build compliant rosters, communicate schedules to cleaners and track attendance efficiently.

Facilities coordinator job description