How to Become an IT Project Manager

As a IT project manager, a combination of technical expertise, strong leadership skills, and effective communication is essential. Although not strictly required, a formal qualification in project management like a Diploma in Project Management helps to get a job in this varied and rewarding career.

Discover more about the role as an IT project manager, find out which project management course you should choose, what the responsibilities, and the steps you need to take to get a job.

Project management team having a discussion

IT project manager job description

info Where we source our data

Let’s get real. Job information online can often be overly optimistic — conveniently glossing over the raw bits. But when you’re making decisions about your future, you need all the facts.

That’s why we anonymously surveyed IT project managers about their job, with hopes of getting an honest insight into what it’s really like.

While we did our best to ensure respondents were Australians and verified their job titles with proof of employment, we can’t guarantee complete accuracy — or that your experiences in the field will reflect theirs. So, we suggest that you take these insights as a guide only and try to talk to people in the field before making an important decision.

IT project managers are responsible for managing the entire lifecycle of technology projects, from inception to delivery. You’ll collaborate with cross-functional teams, including developers, designers, analysts, and stakeholders, to ensure that projects are completed on time, within scope, and within budget.

Tasks and responsibilities for an IT project manager

The responsibilities of an IT project manager include:

  • Defining project scope, goals, and deliverables in collaboration with stakeholders
  • Creating detailed project plans, including tasks, timelines, and resource allocation
  • Leading and motivating project teams, ensuring clear communication and coordination
  • Identifying and managing project risks, issues, and changes
  • Monitoring project progress and ensuring adherence to timelines and budgets
  • Conducting regular status meetings and providing updates to stakeholders
  • Managing project documentation, including requirements, specifications, and reports
  • Ensuring the quality of deliverables through testing and quality assurance processes

How to become an IT project manager

The responsibilities of an IT project manager include:

  1. Study

    Complete a course such as a Diploma in Project Management to gain the fundamental skills needed in this role.

  2. Develop Project Management Skills

    Learn project management skills through courses, certifications (such as PMP or PRINCE2), and practical experience in managing smaller projects.

  3. Get Started

    Work in roles like junior project manager, business analyst, or software developer to gain hands-on experience in project management tasks.

Pathway options

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Job pathways are drawn from the Australian Apprenticeships Pathways site.

Project management jobs are the perfect launchpad for a new career. With the experience gained in your initial job, or further study undertaken, there are plenty of directions you can take in your career.

Possible career pathways could be:

Junior

Mid

Senior