Technical Project Manager Job Description
Job Title: Technical Project Manager
Overview/Summary of the role:
The Technical Project Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing technical projects from inception to completion. They maintain the project's timeline as well as manage the team of professionals who work on the project. The Technical Project Manager ensures that the project meets the client's specifications and is completed within the budget and timeline. They are responsible for ensuring the quality of the work and the final product meets the company's standards.
Responsibilities and Duties:
- Manage projects from start to finish, ensuring they are completed within the budget and timeline
- Create project plans, timelines, and budgets in consultation with stakeholders
- Coordinate the work of team members and third-party contractors or vendors
- Ensure that project requirements are understood by team members and that the project stays on track
- Regularly update stakeholders on the project's progress and escalate issues as appropriate
- Identify and manage project risks and issues
- Develop and maintain project schedules, ensuring on-time delivery of the project
- Ensure project deliverables meet quality standards and customer requirements
- Manage project budgets, including tracking expenses and addressing variances
- Manage client relationships, including communication and issue resolution
- Ensure compliance with company policies and procedures
- Conduct regular project review meetings to identify areas for improvement and ensure lessons learned from completed projects are incorporated into new projects
Qualifications and Skills:
Hard skills:
- Experience in project management methodologies and tools (Agile, Scrum, PMP, etc.)
- Strong technical skills, knowledge of software development, and understanding of technology architecture
- Excellent leadership and management skills
- Strong problem-solving skills, including the ability to identify and resolve issues quickly and effectively
- Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize work effectively
- Strong communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
- Proficiency in project management software (Jira, Asana, Trello, etc.)
Soft skills:
- Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with team members, stakeholders, and clients
- Collaborative and team-oriented mindset
- Flexibility and adaptability to changing project requirements and timelines
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
- Goal-oriented and results-driven attitude
Education and Experience:
Required:
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or equivalent experience
- 5+ years of experience in technical project management roles
- Experience in managing software development projects
Preferred:
- Master's degree in Business Administration or a technical field
- PMP, Scrum Master or other relevant certifications
- Experience in managing cross-functional and/or distributed teams
- Experience working in a global environment with distributed project teams.Licensing (if applicable):
There are no specific licensing requirements for Technical Project Managers. However, having certifications in project management, such as Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), can be an advantage in the job market and may indicate a certain level of expertise.
Typical Employers:
Technical Project Managers are employed by a variety of companies in different industries, including software development, IT, engineering, and construction, among others. Some of the typical employers may include technology firms, consulting firms, government agencies, and large corporations.
Work Environment:
The work environment for Technical Project Managers is typically office-based, although some on-site visits may be required. They work full-time and may need to work evenings or weekends to meet project deadlines. They may also work remotely as many companies have embraced the telecommuting and flexible work arrangements during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Career Pathways (leading to this position and next positions):
To become a Technical Project Manager, individuals often start with a degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, Business, or a related field. They usually gain experience working in technical or project management roles before advancing to this position.
Some of the career pathways leading to this position may include Project Coordinator, Project Manager, Scrum Master, Technical Lead or Business Analyst roles. The next positions for Technical Project Managers may include senior management roles, such as Director of Project Management or Chief Information Officer (CIO).
Job Growth Trend (USA and Global):
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of Computer and Information Systems Managers (including Technical Project Managers) is projected to grow 10% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for computer and information technology professionals is expected to grow as organizations continue to adopt and integrate new technologies into their operations.
Globally, the demand for Technical Project Managers is also increasing due to the rise of digital transformation and the need for project managers who can manage and deliver technical projects across multiple countries and time zones. As businesses continue to adopt digital transformation initiatives, there will likely continue to be a strong demand for Technical Project Managers.Career Satisfaction:
According to a survey conducted by Payscale.com, the average overall job satisfaction rating for Technical Project Managers is 4 out of 5. Factors that contribute to job satisfaction include challenging work, job autonomy, strong leadership, and a positive company culture.
Related Job Positions:
Some job positions related to Technical Project Manager include IT Project Manager, Software Development Manager, Product Manager, and Program Manager.
Connected People:
Technical Project Managers typically interact with various individuals within an organization, including software developers, systems analysts, quality assurance professionals, user experience designers, business analysts, and upper-level management.
Average Salary:
According to Glassdoor.com, the average annual salary for a Technical Project Manager in the USA is $91,440. In the UK, the average salary is £51,285 ($67,423). In Germany, Technical Project Managers can expect an average salary of €68,320 ($80,933). In India, the average salary for a Technical Project Manager is INR 1,311,670 ($17,472). In Brazil, the average salary is R$133,440 ($25,215).
Benefits Package:
The benefits package for a Technical Project Manager can vary depending on the employer. Common benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
Schedule and Hours Required:
Technical Project Managers may be required to work long hours and potentially irregular schedules. However, the schedule can vary depending on the company and the projects being managed. Some employers offer flexible or remote work options, which can provide greater flexibility in scheduling.Level of Autonomy:
As a Technical Project Manager, you will be expected to work independently and make decisions based on your expertise and knowledge. You will oversee multiple projects and teams simultaneously, all with their own unique challenges and requirements. However, you will also need to collaborate with cross-functional teams, communicate effectively with stakeholders, and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.
Opportunities for Professional Development and Advancement:
As a Technical Project Manager, you will have ample opportunities for professional development and advancement. You can pursue certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or AgilePM (Agile Project Management) to enhance your skills and gain recognition in your field. You can also attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices. With experience, you can advance to higher positions such as Senior Project Manager or Director of Project Management.
Specialized Skills or Knowledge Required:
To be a successful Technical Project Manager, you must possess a range of technical and managerial skills. You should have a thorough understanding of software development methodologies, including Agile and Waterfall, as well as knowledge of programming languages, databases, and other technical tools. You should also have excellent communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills, and the ability to manage stakeholder expectations and negotiate conflicts.
Physical Demands:
Being a Technical Project Manager is not physically demanding as this job primarily involves working at a desk or computer. However, you may need to attend meetings in person, which may involve some travel.
Tools and Technologies Used:
As a Technical Project Manager, you will be using a variety of tools and technologies to manage your projects effectively. These may include project management software such as JIRA, Trello, or Asana, communication tools such as email, Skype, or Slack, and collaboration tools such as Google Docs, Microsoft Teams, or Dropbox. You may also need to be familiar with other project management tools such as Gantt charts, risk management software, and budget tracking tools.Work Style:
As a Technical Project Manager, the work style is often fast-paced, with multiple projects being juggled at the same time. It includes managing timelines, budgets, and resources, while ensuring that project goals are met. Flexibility and adaptability are important traits in this role as project priorities may change unexpectedly, requiring quick decision-making and problem-solving.
Working Conditions:
Technical Project Managers often work in an office environment, but they may also have to travel to visit stakeholders, vendors, and other team members. Working hours can vary depending on the project's deadline, with some projects requiring overtime and work over the weekends.
Team Size and Structure:
The size of a Technical Project Manager's team can vary depending on the scale of the project. They may have a small team or be responsible for managing multiple teams. The structure of the team may include a project coordinator, business analyst, software developers, quality assurance engineers, and other technical roles, with the Technical Project Manager providing oversight and direction.
Collaboration and Communication Requirements:
Technical Project Managers must have excellent communication and collaboration skills. They need to interact effectively with stakeholders, counterparts, team members, and other departments within the company. They must also have the ability to listen, interpret, and communicate complex technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
Cultural Fit and Company Values:
Technical Project Managers must align with the company's values and culture, ensuring that project goals and deliverables are in line with the company's vision. They are responsible for building strong relationships with stakeholders, team members, and other departments, fostering a positive and collaborative culture. Technical Project Managers must also understand the company's policies and procedures and ensure that they are adhered to throughout the project's lifecycle.
Overview/Summary of the role:
The Technical Project Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing technical projects from inception to completion. They maintain the project's timeline as well as manage the team of professionals who work on the project. The Technical Project Manager ensures that the project meets the client's specifications and is completed within the budget and timeline. They are responsible for ensuring the quality of the work and the final product meets the company's standards.
Responsibilities and Duties:
- Manage projects from start to finish, ensuring they are completed within the budget and timeline
- Create project plans, timelines, and budgets in consultation with stakeholders
- Coordinate the work of team members and third-party contractors or vendors
- Ensure that project requirements are understood by team members and that the project stays on track
- Regularly update stakeholders on the project's progress and escalate issues as appropriate
- Identify and manage project risks and issues
- Develop and maintain project schedules, ensuring on-time delivery of the project
- Ensure project deliverables meet quality standards and customer requirements
- Manage project budgets, including tracking expenses and addressing variances
- Manage client relationships, including communication and issue resolution
- Ensure compliance with company policies and procedures
- Conduct regular project review meetings to identify areas for improvement and ensure lessons learned from completed projects are incorporated into new projects
Qualifications and Skills:
Hard skills:
- Experience in project management methodologies and tools (Agile, Scrum, PMP, etc.)
- Strong technical skills, knowledge of software development, and understanding of technology architecture
- Excellent leadership and management skills
- Strong problem-solving skills, including the ability to identify and resolve issues quickly and effectively
- Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously and prioritize work effectively
- Strong communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
- Proficiency in project management software (Jira, Asana, Trello, etc.)
Soft skills:
- Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with team members, stakeholders, and clients
- Collaborative and team-oriented mindset
- Flexibility and adaptability to changing project requirements and timelines
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
- Goal-oriented and results-driven attitude
Education and Experience:
Required:
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or equivalent experience
- 5+ years of experience in technical project management roles
- Experience in managing software development projects
Preferred:
- Master's degree in Business Administration or a technical field
- PMP, Scrum Master or other relevant certifications
- Experience in managing cross-functional and/or distributed teams
- Experience working in a global environment with distributed project teams.Licensing (if applicable):
There are no specific licensing requirements for Technical Project Managers. However, having certifications in project management, such as Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), can be an advantage in the job market and may indicate a certain level of expertise.
Typical Employers:
Technical Project Managers are employed by a variety of companies in different industries, including software development, IT, engineering, and construction, among others. Some of the typical employers may include technology firms, consulting firms, government agencies, and large corporations.
Work Environment:
The work environment for Technical Project Managers is typically office-based, although some on-site visits may be required. They work full-time and may need to work evenings or weekends to meet project deadlines. They may also work remotely as many companies have embraced the telecommuting and flexible work arrangements during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Career Pathways (leading to this position and next positions):
To become a Technical Project Manager, individuals often start with a degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, Business, or a related field. They usually gain experience working in technical or project management roles before advancing to this position.
Some of the career pathways leading to this position may include Project Coordinator, Project Manager, Scrum Master, Technical Lead or Business Analyst roles. The next positions for Technical Project Managers may include senior management roles, such as Director of Project Management or Chief Information Officer (CIO).
Job Growth Trend (USA and Global):
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of Computer and Information Systems Managers (including Technical Project Managers) is projected to grow 10% from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for computer and information technology professionals is expected to grow as organizations continue to adopt and integrate new technologies into their operations.
Globally, the demand for Technical Project Managers is also increasing due to the rise of digital transformation and the need for project managers who can manage and deliver technical projects across multiple countries and time zones. As businesses continue to adopt digital transformation initiatives, there will likely continue to be a strong demand for Technical Project Managers.Career Satisfaction:
According to a survey conducted by Payscale.com, the average overall job satisfaction rating for Technical Project Managers is 4 out of 5. Factors that contribute to job satisfaction include challenging work, job autonomy, strong leadership, and a positive company culture.
Related Job Positions:
Some job positions related to Technical Project Manager include IT Project Manager, Software Development Manager, Product Manager, and Program Manager.
Connected People:
Technical Project Managers typically interact with various individuals within an organization, including software developers, systems analysts, quality assurance professionals, user experience designers, business analysts, and upper-level management.
Average Salary:
According to Glassdoor.com, the average annual salary for a Technical Project Manager in the USA is $91,440. In the UK, the average salary is £51,285 ($67,423). In Germany, Technical Project Managers can expect an average salary of €68,320 ($80,933). In India, the average salary for a Technical Project Manager is INR 1,311,670 ($17,472). In Brazil, the average salary is R$133,440 ($25,215).
Benefits Package:
The benefits package for a Technical Project Manager can vary depending on the employer. Common benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
Schedule and Hours Required:
Technical Project Managers may be required to work long hours and potentially irregular schedules. However, the schedule can vary depending on the company and the projects being managed. Some employers offer flexible or remote work options, which can provide greater flexibility in scheduling.Level of Autonomy:
As a Technical Project Manager, you will be expected to work independently and make decisions based on your expertise and knowledge. You will oversee multiple projects and teams simultaneously, all with their own unique challenges and requirements. However, you will also need to collaborate with cross-functional teams, communicate effectively with stakeholders, and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.
Opportunities for Professional Development and Advancement:
As a Technical Project Manager, you will have ample opportunities for professional development and advancement. You can pursue certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or AgilePM (Agile Project Management) to enhance your skills and gain recognition in your field. You can also attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices. With experience, you can advance to higher positions such as Senior Project Manager or Director of Project Management.
Specialized Skills or Knowledge Required:
To be a successful Technical Project Manager, you must possess a range of technical and managerial skills. You should have a thorough understanding of software development methodologies, including Agile and Waterfall, as well as knowledge of programming languages, databases, and other technical tools. You should also have excellent communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills, and the ability to manage stakeholder expectations and negotiate conflicts.
Physical Demands:
Being a Technical Project Manager is not physically demanding as this job primarily involves working at a desk or computer. However, you may need to attend meetings in person, which may involve some travel.
Tools and Technologies Used:
As a Technical Project Manager, you will be using a variety of tools and technologies to manage your projects effectively. These may include project management software such as JIRA, Trello, or Asana, communication tools such as email, Skype, or Slack, and collaboration tools such as Google Docs, Microsoft Teams, or Dropbox. You may also need to be familiar with other project management tools such as Gantt charts, risk management software, and budget tracking tools.Work Style:
As a Technical Project Manager, the work style is often fast-paced, with multiple projects being juggled at the same time. It includes managing timelines, budgets, and resources, while ensuring that project goals are met. Flexibility and adaptability are important traits in this role as project priorities may change unexpectedly, requiring quick decision-making and problem-solving.
Working Conditions:
Technical Project Managers often work in an office environment, but they may also have to travel to visit stakeholders, vendors, and other team members. Working hours can vary depending on the project's deadline, with some projects requiring overtime and work over the weekends.
Team Size and Structure:
The size of a Technical Project Manager's team can vary depending on the scale of the project. They may have a small team or be responsible for managing multiple teams. The structure of the team may include a project coordinator, business analyst, software developers, quality assurance engineers, and other technical roles, with the Technical Project Manager providing oversight and direction.
Collaboration and Communication Requirements:
Technical Project Managers must have excellent communication and collaboration skills. They need to interact effectively with stakeholders, counterparts, team members, and other departments within the company. They must also have the ability to listen, interpret, and communicate complex technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
Cultural Fit and Company Values:
Technical Project Managers must align with the company's values and culture, ensuring that project goals and deliverables are in line with the company's vision. They are responsible for building strong relationships with stakeholders, team members, and other departments, fostering a positive and collaborative culture. Technical Project Managers must also understand the company's policies and procedures and ensure that they are adhered to throughout the project's lifecycle.