Information Technology Manager Job Description - Salary, Education and Career Guide for Becoming an Information Technology Manager

If you are interested in a career that spans virtually all industries and locations, you may want to consider a career as an information technology manager. An information technology manager can also be known as an information technology operations manager or an information technology project manager.
 
As the essential commanders of an organization's fleet of computers that are utilized by nearly everyone in any given office, this position is perfect for someone who is equal parts people person and computer geek.

Job Description

Information technology managers are responsible for overseeing all of the technology at an organization, and providing support and training for that technology. They must manage computing hardware and software for their organizations, often under the supervision of a chief information officer, ensuring that systems run smoothly and securely.
 
Additional responsibilities may include:
  • implementing network security at a regional level
  • managing a company's telephone system
  • managing the purchase of all hardware, software and other IT supplies
  • monitoring the organization's Internet network
  • overseeing archiving, backup, disaster recovery and troubleshooting of internal systems
  • overseeing user services, such as an employee help desk
  • planning and supervising the work of IT employees.
 
Because the information technology manager supervises a team of information technology employees, a large part of the position involves motivating and overseeing a staff.
 
The employment environment and day-to-day responsibilities of information technology managers can vary widely, since they are employed in so many different types of business. While most work at least 40 hours per week in offices, some other possible work environments include:
  • architecture and construction
  • hospitals
  • schools.
 
In any environment, information technology managers keep their teams informed and motivated, diffuse conflicts and keep superiors informed about technology issues.

Salary Guide

The median annual information technology manager salary is about $101,580, with the middle 50 percent earning between $79,240 and $129,250. Annual earnings can vary depending on geographic location, level of responsibility and specialization.

Education and Training

Most management positions in the information technology field require at least a bachelor's degree, with many employers preferring master's level education. Few people become information technology managers with only an associate's or trade school degree.
 
An MBA with information technology as a core area of concentration is favored over a traditional MBA, as information technology managers must make important decisions involving technology and business.
 
Some colleges now offer specific degrees in information systems. These degrees involve the study of:
  • accounting
  • business
  • communications.
 
In addition, a wide variety of information technology certifications are available that may be desirable credentials.

Prior Work Experience

Employers look for experience with the specific software and technology used on the job when hiring information technology managers. Previous employment in consulting or business management jobs is also favored. Other prior employment should demonstrate an understanding of:
  • customer needs
  • management process
  • people.
 

Career Advancement

Many advancement opportunities are available to talented information technology managers. Some possibilities include:
  • chief technology officer
  • head of the information-technology department at a larger firm
  • management positions in other areas, such as sales or marketing, in high-tech firms.
 
Information technology managers may also choose to become self-employed by creating information-technology consulting firms.

Related Associations and Groups

For more information on information technology manager careers, you may want to contact:
  • Association of Information Technology Professionals
  • Information Technology Association of America
  • Information Technology Managers Association.
 
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