The outlook is positive for IT project managers in Canada. As technologies continue to evolve at a rapid pace, companies need experienced IT project managers who can help them rework and adapt their existing IT systems and policies to meet customers' needs and expectations.
IT project managers with strong leadership skills and the ability to communicate clearly and concisely will have the edge in this fiercely competitive job market.
You will work full time in an office setting. Depending on the company you work for, your boss may be a manager in the IT department, or a senior-level executive. Often IT project managers are hired as contractors to consult on and oversee specific projects that require tech expertise. Some IT project manager jobs may require travel. You generally 40 hours per week, though overtime hours may be required for specific projects.
An average starting salary for an IT project manager job is around $85,000, depending on where you live. As a more senior IT project manager, with 5+ years of experience in your role, you can expect to make a six-figure salary.
IT project manager salaries in Montreal are lower than the average for this profession, but otherwise, IT project manager salaries are consistent across Canada.
As an IT project manager, your chief responsibility is to oversee the IT department at your company. You may manage a particular team within the IT department, as well. You will most likely have several coworkers who report to you. A typical day as an IT project manager will include tasks such as:
With the ubiquity of technology, IT project manager jobs are found in a variety of industries across Canada. IT project managers are needed in any business that requires IT support such as offices, hospitals, and technology firms, among many others.
IT project manager jobs are plentiful across Canada, as well. Most businesses have an IT component which means IT project managers are needed all over the country. The consistent salaries from coast to coast reflect the strong demand.
IT project managers typically have a four-year degree and at least three years of experience in the IT field, either as a project manager, a project coordinator or in a related tech job with a supervisory component. Without a degree, you will likely need 5 years of experience, minimum, to secure an IT project manager job.Other skills that are useful to have in your arsenal:
Most IT project manager jobs will require a bachelor's degree. Your degree can be obtained in computer science, computer engineering, or another related field. Taking management classes or obtaining a minor in management or communications will give your application a boost when applying for IT project manager jobs.
To obtain top level project manager jobs, you may want to obtain specialized certifications that demonstrate your expertise, such as an IT Project Management Methodology Certification.
Related tech jobs that IT project managers might consider include computer engineer, information systems analyst, and software engineer. A skilled IT project manager also has the opportunity to grow into management positions in the IT department, such as IT director, vice president of IT, or even CIO.
The key to your success as an IT project manager is to continually add to your skill-base. You must be able to understand and support your staff in the ever-changing world of information technology.