What Does an Engineering Project Manager Do?

Engineering project managers are responsible for overseeing the planning, execution, and management of projects within their organization. They work with teams of engineers, architects, designers, etc. to ensure that all projects are completed on time and on budget.

Engineering project managers must be able to effectively manage multiple projects at once while still providing clear direction to their team members. They also need strong communication skills in order to coordinate with clients or other stakeholders throughout the process.

Engineering Project Manager Job Duties

Engineering project managers typically have a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

• Communicating with other project managers to ensure that tasks are completed on time and within budget
• Assessing risks associated with projects and developing plans to mitigate those risks
• Managing staff and overseeing the work process to ensure that each task is completed on schedule and within budget
• Estimating the time and materials required to complete projects within specified budgets
• Developing project plans based on client needs and specifications, using software such as Microsoft Project
• Coordinating with clients, architects, engineers, contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, and other team members to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget
• Overseeing the design process, including selecting material suppliers and contractors, hiring architects or engineers when needed, and managing construction schedules
• Preparing work estimates and contracts for clients based on their needs and requirements
• Scheduling and overseeing the work of contractors to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget

Engineering Project Manager Salary & Outlook

Engineering project managers’ salaries vary depending on their level of education, years of experience, and the size and industry of the company. They may also earn additional compensation in the form of bonuses or commissions.

• Median Annual Salary: $115,000 ($55.29/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $315,000 ($151.44/hour)

The employment of engineering project managers is expected to grow at an average rate over the next decade.

Demand for engineering project managers depends largely on the overall demand for engineering services. As demand for engineering services increases, engineering project managers will be needed to organize and oversee these projects.

Related: Engineering Project Manager Interview Questions and Answers

Engineering Project Manager Job Requirements

A position as an engineering project manager typically requires:

Education: Most employers require engineering project managers to have a bachelor’s degree in engineering, engineering technology, computer science or a related field. Some employers prefer candidates who have a master’s degree in engineering or a related field. Relevant coursework includes engineering design, computer-aided design, statistics, calculus, physics and chemistry.

Training & Experience: Engineering project managers typically receive on-the-job training in the form of an apprenticeship or internship. Apprenticeships and internships allow aspiring engineering project managers to gain practical experience while working under the supervision of an experienced project manager.

Certifications & Licenses: Although not required, engineering project manager certifications can help you stand out when applying for jobs. They also may allow you to charge a higher hourly rate when negotiating consulting agreements.

Engineering Project Manager Skills

Engineering project managers need the following skills in order to be successful:

Technical skills: Technical skills are the knowledge and expertise you have in a specific field. For example, if you’re an engineering project manager, you may have technical skills in engineering. Having technical skills can help you understand and interpret technical documents, data and research. It can also help you communicate more effectively with engineers and other professionals on your team.

Communication: Communication is another essential skill for an engineering project manager. You might be responsible for relaying information to and from clients, engineers, suppliers and other stakeholders. Effective communication can help you convey information clearly and answer questions. You can also use communication to build relationships with others, which can help you collaborate on projects and overcome challenges.

Leadership: Leadership skills can help you motivate your team and encourage them to work together to achieve project goals. You can use your leadership skills to help your team work together and overcome challenges. Effective leaders can also delegate tasks and motivate their team to take on new challenges.

Organization: Organization is another skill that can be useful for an engineering project manager to have. This is because they often oversee many different projects at once and may need to keep track of many different details for each project. Having good organizational skills can allow an engineering project manager to keep track of all the information they need for their projects and keep their team organized as well.

Problem-solving: Problem-solving skills allow you to identify and resolve issues that may arise during the course of a project. As an engineering project manager, you may be responsible for identifying and resolving issues that may arise during the course of a project. For example, if a supplier is unable to deliver a necessary component, you may be responsible for finding an alternative supplier or developing a contingency plan in case the original supplier is unable to fulfill their obligations.

Engineering Project Manager Work Environment

Engineering project managers typically work in an office environment, although they may travel to job sites to oversee construction or to meet with clients. They usually work a standard 40-hour week, although they may occasionally work overtime to meet deadlines or to attend meetings. Engineering project managers may experience periods of high stress when coordinating deadlines and projects. They must be able to work well under pressure and be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Engineering Project Manager Trends

Here are three trends influencing how engineering project managers work. Engineering project managers will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.

The Need for More Technical Project Managers

As technology becomes more complex, so does the work of engineering project managers. In order to keep up with the latest trends, they will need to become more technical and understand how to manage projects that involve a lot of software development.

This trend is already being seen in the industry, as more companies are looking for project managers who have a background in engineering or software development. By understanding the latest technologies and how to manage projects that use them, engineering project managers can set themselves apart from the competition and be more successful in their careers.

The Importance of Communication Skills

Engineering project managers play a critical role in any company that develops products or builds infrastructure. They are responsible for managing all aspects of a project, from planning and design to implementation and maintenance.

In order to be successful in this role, engineers must be able to communicate effectively with both team members and clients. This includes being able to write clear and concise reports, as well as being able to speak clearly and persuasively in meetings.

More Collaboration Between Engineering and Business Teams

As businesses become more reliant on technology, the need for collaboration between engineering and business teams has increased. This is because engineers need to be able to understand the needs of the business in order to create solutions that meet those needs.

Project managers can play an important role in this process by helping to bridge the gap between these two teams. They can do this by providing support and guidance to engineers, as well as communicating the needs of the business to them.

How to Become an Engineering Project Manager

An engineering project manager career can be a great way to use your engineering skills in a different way. As an engineering project manager, you’ll be responsible for managing the entire life cycle of a project from start to finish. This includes planning and organizing the project, managing team members, and ensuring that all deadlines are met.

To become an engineering project manager, you’ll need to have a strong background in engineering and project management. You should also be able to work well with teams and have excellent communication skills.

Advancement Prospects

There are many ways to advance your career as an engineering project manager. One of the best ways is to get further education, such as a master’s degree in engineering management. This will give you the skills and knowledge you need to take on more responsibility and move up in your career.

Another way to advance your career is to become certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP). This certification is recognized worldwide and will show employers that you have the skills and knowledge to be a successful project manager.

You can also advance your career by taking on more responsibility at work. This could involve leading more projects, taking on a larger role in project planning and execution, or mentoring other project managers. As you take on more responsibility and show your ability to successfully manage projects, you will be in a good position to advance your career.

Engineering Project Manager Job Description Example

At [CompanyX], we are looking for an experienced Engineering Project Manager to lead and oversee our engineering projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong engineering background with experience managing teams of engineers. They will be responsible for ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required specifications. They will also be required to liaise with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure that all parties are coordinated and working towards the same goal. The successful candidate will be an excellent communicator with strong problem-solving skills.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all project-related communications, both internally and externally
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with clients, vendors, and other stakeholders
• Understand client needs and objectives and develop detailed project plans to meet those goals
• Oversee all aspects of project execution, including scope, schedule, budget, quality, risks, and change management
• Effectively manage project teams, including engineers, designers, drafters, and technicians
• Coordinate with multiple disciplines to ensure that all aspects of the project are considered
• Monitor project progress and performance, identify and resolve issues in a timely manner
• Prepare regular reports for upper management on project status, risks, and opportunities
• Ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards
• Conduct post-project reviews to document lessons learned and identify areas for improvement
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and best practices
• Adhere to all company policies and procedures

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, project management, or related field
• 10+ years experience managing engineering projects from concept to completion
• Proven track record of successful project delivery within scope, budget, and timeline
• Strong understanding of engineering principles and practices
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills
• Ability to work independently and with a team
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and Project Management software

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Master’s degree in engineering, project management, or related field
• 15+ years experience managing engineering projects
• PMP certification
• Working knowledge of AutoCAD
• Familiarity with Six Sigma or Lean methodology