Project Manager jobs

An information technology project manager, or IT project manager, is responsible for the administration of IT hardware and software for their employer. IT project manager jobs involve allocating resources, planning projects and implementing those plans. A digital project manager will typically be responsible for keeping software updated and hardware upgraded to meet the ongoing needs of their organisation.

IT project manager job responsibilities can vary depending on the size of the company. In a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME), you may be the only IT engineer on call, whereas in a large corporation you might have a team of engineers and IT helpdesk operators working under you.

Typical tasks of an IT project manager

Digital project manager duties can vary considerably, especially in smaller firms where your role is likely to be much broader. Core tasks include managing your employer's computer systems, network infrastructure and other IT resources on a day-to-day basis. As a technology project manager, you may be given a budget and the authority to allocate this as you wish, as well as the authority to allocate IT resources.

As a digital project manager you may also be responsible for customer-facing IT systems such as your company's website and client intranet, as well as ensuring your ecommerce platform runs smoothly and accurately reflects warehouse stock levels and availability. This is a broad role and your remit will be driven by the changing needs of your employer.

Because IT project manager jobs are positions of seniority, you may be asked to serve as a line manager for other IT personnel working beneath you. This responsibility can include ensuring IT staff follow company policies and principles, monitoring the use of computers and removable storage devices, and preparing paperwork such as budgets and project plans.

Qualifications required for an IT project manager job

To qualify for IT project manager jobs in large firms you will typically be expected to hold a degree in computer science or project management, or an equivalent subject. Some employers will want you to have a master's degree as a minimum. Industry practitioner certification schemes like PRINCE2, Project Management Professional (PMP) and Scrum can be beneficial to your application.

Smaller firms may consider talented individuals who have experience and expertise, but do not hold a high-pass bachelor's or master's degree. However, you will need to be able to demonstrate that you have sufficient knowledge for the role, which may be even broader and more demanding if you are the sole IT engineer on site.

Hard/soft skills needed for an IT project manager job

Computer skills are essential for this role. These include in-depth knowledge of hardware, software, network infrastructure and admin-level expertise across all areas. Experience of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) platforms may be required in larger firms. Specific project management certification will be beneficial.

Soft skills required vary. If you are in charge of a team interpersonal and communication skills will help, along with good leadership. Attention to detail and a logical approach to troubleshooting is likely to help in the event of a system outage, to be able to restore operations as quickly as possible and minimise negative impact on your employer.