Project Manager: Job Duties, Skills and Salary 2025

What Does a Project Manager do?

A Project Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and finalizing projects according to strict deadlines and within budget. This includes acquiring resources and coordinating the efforts of team members and third-party contractors or consultants in order to deliver projects according to plan. Project Managers also define the project’s objectives and oversee quality control throughout its life cycle. They manage a wide array of projects, from software development to construction, and are pivotal in ensuring that all project milestones are met and align with the overall business strategy.

Project Managers must have a blend of skills in project planning, risk management, and interpersonal communication to successfully lead projects and drive team performance.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

Project Managers in the Management field handle essential tasks and contribute significantly to achieving team and organizational goals. Here are some of their primary responsibilities:

• Direct and manage project development from beginning to end.
• Define project scope, goals, and deliverables that support business goals in collaboration with senior management and stakeholders.
• Develop full-scale project plans and associated communications documents.
• Effectively communicate project expectations to team members and stakeholders in a timely and clear fashion.
• Estimate the resources and participants needed to achieve project goals.
• Draft and submit budget proposals, and recommend subsequent budget changes where necessary.
• Plan and schedule project timelines and milestones using appropriate tools.
• Delegate tasks and responsibilities to appropriate personnel.
• Identify and resolve issues and conflicts within the project team.
• Develop and deliver progress reports, proposals, requirements documentation, and presentations.

How to Become a Project Manager

Launching a career as a Project Manager requires a specific education. We outline the essential qualifications, skills, and steps to enter this field.

Qualification

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, or a related field. Specific fields may require related technical knowledge.
• Proven experience in project management in the related area of deployment (e.g., software, construction, marketing).
• Certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or PRINCE2 are highly advantageous.
• Strong familiarity with project management software tools, methodologies, and best practices.
• Experience in team management and stakeholder engagement.

Requirements & Skills

• Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to develop and communicate an overarching project vision that inspires the team.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to work well with stakeholders and prioritize tasks.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective crisis management skills.
• Proven ability to manage budgets and control project costs.

Project Manager Salary Guide

Wondering what Project Managers earn? Explore salary ranges by experience, and career tips to maximize your earning potential.

The average salary for a Project Manager in the U.S. is approximately $94,000 per year and can vary from entry-level to senior positions. Project Managers may receive a wide range of benefits.

Project Manager Salary Career Steps