The New York State School Facilities Association (NYSSFA) serves as the professional voice for over 600 facilities leaders across the state, including Directors of Facilities, Facilities Managers, Health and Safety Coordinators, and key maintenance personnel. Our members navigate an increasingly complex landscape that includes:
- Managing advanced technological building systems
- Implementing critical safety and security measures
- Ensuring compliance with environmental regulations
- Overseeing substantial operational budgets
- Leading diverse maintenance teams
- Coordinating emergency preparedness
- Maintaining public health protocols
The path to becoming a Director of Facilities (DOF) in New York State schools combines civil service requirements, core compentencies, and a commitment to professional development.
New York State administers a standardized statewide civil service examination process for Director of Facilities positions, with three distinct classification levels:
Director of Facilities I
Director of Facilities II
Director of Facilities III
Full descriptions of classifications can be found here.
NYSSFA recognizes that today’s DOFs require ongoing education, training and support beyond the civil service framework. Critical skills include:
- Advanced building automation systems and technology integration
- Complex health, safety and security protocols
- Environmental compliance and sustainability practices
- Capital project planning and execution
- Multi-million dollar budget management
- Staff supervision and labor relations
- Emergency management and disaster response
- Regulatory compliance across multiple agencies
Through the School Facilities Management Institute (SFMI) and collaboration with New York State colleges and Universities, we provide professional development:
- New DOFs: Foundational certification programs, mentorship opportunities, and core competency training
- Experienced DOFs: Advanced certification, leadership development, and specialized technical training
- Aspiring DOFs: Preparatory coursework, examination preparation, and career advancement guidance
Enhancing the Profession
We’re developing an expanded academic-based certificate program with New York State colleges and universities to create multiple pathways to professional excellence. This program will supplement the civil service process with comprehensive education in facilities engineering, educational environment optimization, financial management, project oversight, regulatory compliance, and leadership development.
NYSSFA’s advocacy has strengthened the professional standing of DOFs through legislative initiatives, collaboration with the State Education Department, and partnerships with key educational organizations. Our member resources include specialized training academies, legal guidance, technical resources, and our comprehensive Director of Facilities Handbook.
The professionalization of facilities management ensures that the substantial public investment in school infrastructure is protected while providing optimal educational environments for all New York State students.
The investment in professional facilities management yields significant returns through extended infrastructure lifespans, reduced emergency costs, improved energy efficiency, better risk management, and more effective budget allocation.
Most importantly, professional facilities management ensures every New York student has access to safe, well-maintained educational spaces, regardless of their district’s resources.
