Question 1

How much do Project Managers make?

Accepted Answer

Project Managers earn a national median salary of $99,010 per year, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Entry-level Project Managers (10th percentile) earn around $53,151. Experienced professionals (90th percentile) can earn $188,163 or more. The highest-paying states for Project Managers include Alaska ($124K), California ($118K), and DC ($118K).

Question 2

What does a Project Manager do?

Accepted Answer

Apply quantitative and qualitative knowledge, skills, tools, and techniques to manage projects in a wide range of fields and occupations. Common day-to-day tasks include prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as financial accounting, principles of marketing, and operations management, evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers, and initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions. Project Managers typically work in Corporate offices, Technology companies, Construction and engineering firms.

Question 3

How long does it take to become a Project Manager?

Accepted Answer

Most Project Manager training programs take 6mo-1.5yr to complete. Programs typically lead to a certificate or diploma and cover hands-on skills needed for entry-level positions. You can search and compare Project Manager programs at TradeSchoolGo to find one that fits your schedule and budget.

Question 4

Is Project Manager a good career?

Accepted Answer

The Project Manager field is projected to see 5.7% job growth, which is faster than average for all occupations, with approximately 43,150 job openings annually. Organizations are running more complex, cross-functional projects and need people who can coordinate schedules, budgets, vendors, and stakeholders. Growth in technology, healthcare, construction, and process-improvement initiatives can increase demand for project management specialists.

Question 5

What skills do I need to become a Project Manager?

Accepted Answer

Key skills for Project Managers include Project planning and scheduling, Budgeting and cost control, Risk management and problem solving, Clear written and verbal communication, and Stakeholder management and negotiation. These skills are developed through formal training programs and on-the-job experience.

Question 6

What is the work environment like for a Project Manager?

Accepted Answer

Project Managers typically work in Corporate offices, Technology companies, Construction and engineering firms, Healthcare systems, Government agencies and contractors. Most project managers work full time on a weekday schedule, with occasional early/late hours during deadlines, launches, or client meetings. Work is primarily sedentary, with long periods of sitting and computer use. Some roles require travel and walking through client sites or project locations, but heavy physical labor is uncommon.

Question 7

What are the pros and cons of being a Project Manager?

Accepted Answer

Advantages of a Project Manager career include strong pay potential and broad industry options, transferable skills that apply across many roles, and clear impact and visibility on business outcomes. Challenges to consider: the Project Manager trade can involve high responsibility for timelines, budgets, and scope, frequent meetings and stakeholder conflict to manage, and deadline pressure and occasional long hours.

Question 8

How much does Project Manager school cost?

Accepted Answer

Project Manager training program costs vary depending on the school, location, and program length. Certificate programs are generally less expensive than associate degree programs. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants may be available to help cover costs. Browse and compare Project Manager programs with tuition information on TradeSchoolGo.

Question 9

Can I become a Project Manager without a college degree?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Project Manager careers typically require a certificate or diploma from a trade school or vocational program, not a four-year college degree. Most programs take 6mo-1.5yr to complete and focus on hands-on, practical training. Some Project Managers also enter the field through apprenticeship programs that combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction.

Project Manager

What Project Managers Do

Common Tasks

What You'll Learn

Types of Project Managers

Work Environment

Locations

Schedule

Physical Demands

Salary & Job Outlook

Top Paying States

Why Demand May Grow

Skills You'll Need

Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

Common Questions About the Project Manager Trade

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