IT Manager Career Guide

What Does an IT Manager Do?

Computer and information systems managers, often called IT managers or Chief Information Officers (CIOs), plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities in an organization. They help determine the IT goals of an organization and are responsible for implementing computer systems to meet those goals.

Day-to-day responsibilities include analyzing the organization's IT needs and recommending upgrades, planning and directing the installation and maintenance of computer hardware and software, establishing and maintaining processes to detect, prevent, and mitigate IT security threats, assessing costs and benefits of new projects and justifying funding, determining personnel needs for the IT department, planning and directing the work of other IT staff (systems analysts, software developers, security analysts, and support specialists), and negotiating with vendors to ensure high-quality performance.

Job tasks vary by organization size and structure. Some oversee an organization's entire IT department; others are responsible for a particular area like infrastructure, support services, or cybersecurity. They may have titles such as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) or Management Information Systems (MIS) Director.

Education & Requirements

• Typical Education: Bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or related field. Some employers require or prefer a graduate degree (MBA or master's in IT).
• Certifications: Optional but preferred by many employers. Relevant certifications include CISSP (security), PMP (project management), ITIL (IT service management), and vendor-specific certifications (AWS, Azure, Cisco).
• Key Skills: Analytical skills to evaluate information and develop strategic plans, communication skills to explain work to executives and give instructions to subordinates, expertise in computer hardware/software/systems and programming languages, decision-making skills for resource allocation, leadership skills to direct and motivate IT teams, and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot issues.
• Experience: 5+ years in a related IT job. IT security managers may need experience as information security analysts, while CTOs and IT directors usually need many years and extensive experience in the IT field.

Salary Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024 data):

• Median Annual Salary: $171,200
• Entry-Level (10th percentile): $104,450
• Experienced (90th percentile): $239,200+
• Top-Paying Industries: Information ($196,060), Finance and insurance ($176,570), Manufacturing ($174,790), Management of companies ($172,830), Computer systems design ($171,250)
• Work Schedule: Most work full time, some more than 40 hours per week

Job Outlook & Growth

Employment of computer and information systems managers is projected to grow 15 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 55,600 openings are projected each year on average over the decade.

Demand is projected to grow as organizations increasingly rely on IT services and require these workers to plan and oversee computer hardware and software needs. Employment growth is expected to result from the increased complexity and necessity of technology throughout the economy. As businesses across industries ramp up their IT infrastructure—including cloud computing, cybersecurity, digital platforms, and artificial intelligence (AI)—computer and information systems managers will be critical to ensuring solid IT implementation.

How to Break Into This Field

1. Education: Earn a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or related field. Consider a master's degree (MBA or MS in IT) to be more competitive. Take courses in programming, software development, mathematics, and business.
2. Entry-Level Roles: Start as a software developer, systems analyst, database administrator, network administrator, or computer support specialist. Gain 5-10 years of technical experience before transitioning to management.
3. Build Skills: Develop technical expertise in multiple areas (cloud, security, databases, networking). Earn certifications (PMP, CISSP, AWS, Azure). Build soft skills in leadership, communication, and project management. Stay current with emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and quantum computing.
4. Network: Join professional associations like ISACA, CompTIA, or PMI. Attend tech conferences and meetups. Connect with IT leaders on LinkedIn and seek mentorship opportunities.
5. Apply Strategically: Target companies with strong IT departments. Consider industries with heavy tech reliance (finance, healthcare, e-commerce). Look for roles like IT Project Manager or Team Lead as stepping stones to management.

Career Path & Advancement

Entry-level: Technical roles (developer, analyst, administrator) → Mid-level: IT Project Manager, Team Lead, or Department Manager → Senior-level: IT Director, VP of IT, CTO, or CIO.

Specialization paths include cybersecurity (CISO), infrastructure and operations, application development, data management, or cloud services. Some IT managers move into executive leadership (COO, CEO) or start their own technology consulting firms.

Pros & Cons

Related Careers

If you're interested in IT Manager, you might also consider:

• Software Developers: Median salary $131,450, design computer applications and programs
• Computer Systems Analysts: Median salary $103,790, study organizations' computer systems and design improvements
• Database Administrators and Architects: Median salary $123,100, create or organize systems to store and secure data
• Information Security Analysts: Median salary varies, plan and carry out security measures to protect computer networks
• Project Management Specialists: Median salary $100,750, coordinate budget, schedule, and staffing of projects