Development Project Manager Job Description
Software development project managers lead projects through the software design and systems development processes. They provide leadership, architectural guidance and technical expertise in the use of open-source software, user experience design, agile software methodologies and accessible technologies. Software development project managers apply their technical expertise to develop, document, coordinate, collaborate and facilitate delivery of high-quality software products. They also contribute to the strategic planning process related to using software products to support business growth and agility.
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Primary Responsibilities and Job Tasks
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Software development project managers coordinate the software development process and manage the completion of project deliverables. They perform requirements analyses and create technical specifications, project schedules and work plans, progress reports, release schedules and roll-back plans. Software development project managers communicate important decisions to key stakeholders and keep them informed of progress throughout the entire software development life cycle. They set priorities and objectives with the project team and coordinate their efforts to implement software engineering plans and deliver innovative software products.
Acceptable Education and Experience
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Software development project managers usually have a background combining post-secondary education in a computer-related field and professional experience in software development and project management. Individuals with a bachelor's degree in a technical field may qualify for some entry-level project management jobs; however, employers show a preference for candidates with master's degrees in business administration and technology as a core component, particularly for project managers of complex software development efforts. Qualified individuals with certifications from professional project management organizations, such as the Project Management Institute (PMI), also fare well in the industry.
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Other Qualifications
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Software development project managers are highly technical and possess an in-depth knowledge of software engineering principles. They demonstrate exceptional analytical, problem solving and critical thinking skills, come up to speed quickly in complex domains and effectively manage multiple concurrent activities. Because they interact with a diverse pool of resources, such as researchers, developers and senior management, excellent communication and interpersonal skills are critically important. Project managers are comfortable and confident when presenting to diverse audiences and across all levels of the organization, including senior executives. In an increasingly global economy, foreign language skills are also highly beneficial.
Job Outlook
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The 2009 employment forecast published by the U.S. Department of Labor estimates job prospects for computer and information systems managers, including software development project managers, to grow by 17 percent through the year 2018. Managers with a combination of business savvy, technical expertise in a specialized area--such as software engineering--and excellent communication skills are well-positioned for successful careers in the industry.
Projected Earnings
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The U.S. Department of Labor estimates the nationwide average annual salary of computer and information systems managers, including software development project managers, working in the United States ranges from $69,900 to $143,590. The estimated nationwide average annual salaries of information systems managers is $113,720, as of May 2009. The three top-paying states for the occupation are New Jersey, New York and California. Software development project managers in these areas enjoy average salaries ranging from $136,720 to $139,880, as of May 2009.
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References
- InformIT: The Role of Project Management in SDLC--- Part 2
- Project Manager Planet: Anatomy of a Software Development Role: Project Manager
- U.S. Department of Labor: Computer and Information Systems Managers, Occupational Employment Statistics
- U.S. Department of Labor: Computer and Information Systems Managers, Occupational Outlook
- Photo Credit Business image by Markus Hofmann from Fotolia.com
