Compare roles in health

Although there are no set entry requirements, estate managers have a relevant qualification, often at degree level. This could be in, for example building surveying, property management or facilities management. To get onto a degree course, you need appropriate level 3 qualifications. Some estates managers join the NHS as, for example, estates technicians and become managers with experience and further qualifications. Employers may ask for a driving licence. When you become an estates manager your training will include an introduction to the department and its systems and procedures. You will be expected to keep your skills and knowledge up to date by going on short courses on particular topics such as risk analysis or contract management. You may be encouraged to take further qualifications in, for example, project management.

Estates managers working in the NHS are paid on the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay system. You will typically start on AfC band 7. With further training and experience, you could apply for more senior positions up to band 9. Estates managers in the NHS work standard hours of around 37.5 a week. The job may involve attending meetings or events in the evenings or at weekends. Terms and conditions will usually be different for estates managers working outside of the NHS.

Estates managers need to have an interest in buildings and property, work on several different projects at once, be able to meet deadlines and work with contractors and others from the construction industry. They also need good communication, negotiating, organisational, project management and business skills.

With experience, estates managers can progress to become senior managers such as area managers or directors. There may be opportunities outside the NHS.