How to become a Project Manager
Here are some steps you can follow to become a project manager:
- Start by earning a bachelor's or associate degree. The more you specialize in your education, the easier you will enter the industry of your choice.
- Then, get experience. Project managers often start as an assistant or coordinator and get promoted. Experience is an asset on your resume.
- Get certified. The most recognized project management certification is provided by the Project Management Institute (PMI). If you want to work in the construction field, the Construction Management Association of America and the American Institute of Constructors offer certification programs.
How to become: Construction Project Manager · Program Manager · IT Project Manager · Project Engineer · Technical Project Manager
These qualifications are required: Hazardous Waste Operations & Emergency Response Training · ITIL Certification · PMI-ACP
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What skills help Project Managers find jobs?
- Agile
- Analysis skills
- AutoCAD
- Budgeting
- Civil engineering
- Communication skills
- Computer skills
- Construction
- Construction estimating
- Contracts
- Customer service
- English
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Career progression for Project Manager
Education levels for Project Managers
| required level of education | percent of job openings |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's degree | 47.6% |
| High school diploma or GED | 21.8% |
| Master's degree | 15.8% |
| Associate's degree | 14.0% |
| Doctoral degree | 0.8% |
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Expected salary by experience
| Years of experience | Annual salary in USD |
|---|---|
| 0 - 4 | $55,700 |
| 4 - 8 | $60,800 |
| 8 - 12 | $71,000 |
| 12 - 16 | $79,100 |
| 16 - 20 | $84,900 |
| 20 - 24 | $87,300 |
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Common qualifications for Project Managers
CAPM
PMP
PgMP
Six Sigma Certification
CPR Certification
First Aid Certification
LEED Certification
OSHA 10
IICRC Certification
OSHA 30
Certified Social Worker
CDL A
Professional Engineer
Driver's License
Clinical Social Worker
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Common questions about career advices for a Project Manager
What are the essential skills of a project manager?
- Effective communication skills
- Strong leadership skills
- Ability to tolerate stress
- Good negotiation skills
- Excellent decision-making
- Adaptability
- Organization
- Contract management skills
- Risk management
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