what is a project manager?
As a project manager, your main task is to plan and execute projects. This means you are responsible for defining the project’s goals and the resources needed to successfully complete your plan. You are also in charge of managing the teams and resources assigned to you. As a project manager, you handle tangible and critical elements such as planning and budgeting. Additionally, you participate in less measurable aspects, like providing moral support and leadership to your teams.
Project managers are agents of change who thrive in complex and dynamic environments. When you work as a project manager, you inspire others to achieve goals and deliver results. You also switch seamlessly between the big picture and the finer details—an essential skill for project success. This means you’re responsible for developing the project execution plan, creating schedules, and defining tasks for each team member to ensure objectives are met.
Unlike other careers where you work within a specific sector, project managers operate across all industries. For example, you might develop action plans for construction projects, assist with marketing efforts, or support the IT industry in developing new projects.
Are you considering a career as a project manager, given your leadership skills? If so, keep reading to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to grow into a project management role.
find jobsthe average salary of a project manager.
According to paylab and internal resources from Randstad Romania, the average salary for a project manager ranges from 5,000 to 5,500 RON net per month for entry-level positions and can go up to 12,000 RON net per month as you gain more experience. In addition to an attractive base salary, project managers often receive numerous benefits. Health insurance is frequently included in the compensation package, and some companies offer housing and transportation allowances. When working overtime, your employer compensates you with agreed-upon hourly rates, and successfully completing a project can earn you bonuses.
how to increase your salary as a project manager.
Your compensation package depends on various factors, and paying attention to these components can boost your salary. For example, a graduate with a bachelor's degree earns less than a project manager with a master's or doctorate. If you improve your academic qualifications and add a few certifications to your resume, your compensation package will be directly affected.
The industrial sector in which you apply your project management skills also influences your salary. Working as a consultant or project manager in construction typically offers higher pay compared to managing projects in marketing or healthcare. In addition to the industry, the size of the company plays a significant role in determining your salary. In a large organization, project managers oversee a sizable team and lead complex projects. This generally translates into a higher salary compared to smaller businesses.
types of project managers.
Project managers work across various industries and hold different roles. Here are some of them:
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Construction project manager: As a construction project manager, your job is to work closely with architects and develop a plan to complete projects. This includes overseeing construction activities, such as building structures and infrastructure, from start to finish.
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IT project manager: When you're an IT project manager, your role is to solve problems within your IT department. Some of the issues you'll encounter include installing new software or updating networks. Software project managers also guide teams in developing new software.
- Project manager in energy: in the energy sector, your job is to oversee projects that develop infrastructure or improve existing energy efficiency practices within a company.
career as a project manager.
When you're a project manager, you follow a set of principles that guide the execution of the project. This means breaking down the fundamental elements of the project into daily tasks and phases for your teams. Keep reading to learn about the daily activities of a project manager.
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job description of a project manager
The project manager role doesn't impose any real restrictions on your responsibilities; if it pertains to a specific project, it's your job to handle it. Regarding general project management tasks, these include:
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Planning: Your main role as a project manager is to plan a project by listing all the critical activities that ensure its success. Planning allows you to define the project's objectives and establish a schedule and timeline for completing each phase. Your plan will determine whether the project succeeds or fails.
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Organizing project teams: your project is successful when you effectively organize your teams to complete their tasks. As a project manager, you create detailed checklists and dashboards for your team. Sometimes, you need to negotiate their responsibilities and ensure they are committed to the task at hand.
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Deliverable Management: As a project manager, it’s your responsibility to negotiate achievable deadlines with stakeholders and ensure that deliverables are completed. It’s essential to make sure that the deliverables meet the time constraints and stay within the budget outlined in the business plan.
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Progress Monitoring: As a project manager, you spend most of your time tracking the progress of your projects. You can monitor project status using a management system and ensure that milestones are being met.
- Report Preparation: As a project manager, you need to provide clients with regular updates on the progress of the projects. Documentation is also essential for tracking the execution plan and the budget.
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the work environment
When you're a project manager, you'll spend most of your time in an office, regardless of the industry your employer operates in. The office environment allows you to monitor projects using project management software and to complete the necessary documentation for budgeting and scheduling. If you work in construction, sometimes you'll need to be on-site. Working on-site enables you to manage resources effectively and oversee the project until completion.
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who are your colleagues?
A project manager, your colleagues vary depending on the project and the industry you're working in. But one thing's for sure: you're in contact with many different people all day long.
Are you a project manager in the construction industry, for example? If so, you'll often be in contact with the site supervisor and team leader who are on-site every day. You’ll also communicate with technical coordinators, site inspectors or site administrators, architects, quantity surveyors, product managers, testing managers, electronics technicians, and clients.
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work schedule
As a project manager, you'll typically work a standard full-time schedule of 40 hours per week. Sometimes, you'll need to put in overtime and work evenings when attending events or meetings. If a project deadline is approaching, you may also work on weekends. Some companies offer part-time positions; although they are rare, project managers often work irregular hours depending on the project requirements. Some employers also provide short-term contracts when there's a need to complete a project within a specific timeframe. Project management can involve a lot of travel, especially if the project execution takes place at different locations.
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career perspective
Project management is a versatile career that spans multiple industries, allowing you to switch from one role to another. For example, after years of working as a project manager in marketing, you can transition into the IT and technology sector or the construction industry without additional training. With professional certifications, project managers can advance to higher-level positions or become consultants in project management roles or take on e-commerce management positions.
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the advantages of finding a project manager job through randstad
Finding a job as a project manager through Randstad offers significant advantages such as:
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a wide variety of training and development opportunities
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a contact person with experience whom you can reach out to if needed.
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a wide range of opportunities
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temporary and permanent contracts
Are you looking for a permanent position? A temporary job as a project manager is often a stepping stone to an attractive permanent role. Every year, thousands of people secure permanent contracts with trusted employers thanks to temporary jobs found through Randstad. Plus, many companies also hire their permanent staff through Randstad!
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education and training.
To secure a role as a project manager, you will need various educational qualifications such as:
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university courses
Obtaining a bachelor's degree in administration and business or management sets you on the path to a career in project management. You can also pursue a postgraduate qualification to boost your competitiveness.
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master's program
Although it's not mandatory, having a master's program in project management or business management can boost your chances of landing a project manager role.
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certifications
As a project manager, you can boost your employment prospects with a certification from the Romanian Project Management Association or the Project Management Institute.
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practical experience
Completing an internship or apprenticeship is a great first step into the field of project management.
skills and competencies.
In addition to academic qualifications, you need the following skills to become an excellent project manager:
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negotiation skills
When you're a project manager, you need to be an excellent negotiator to secure the best deals on contracts. Negotiation skills also help you get all stakeholders on board with your strategic plans.
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leadership skills
A project manager needs strong leadership skills to guide resources toward project goals. With your abilities, you can also motivate team members and steer them through the project processes.
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organizational skills
When you're a project manager, you have numerous tasks to handle, and your organizational skills will be invaluable. Good organization helps you multitask effectively, as you can prioritize responsibilities and break down projects into manageable parts.
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problem-solving skills
With problem-solving skills, you can find a structured approach to tackle issues that arise during the project process. It also enables you to mitigate risks and achieve positive outcomes.
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computer skills
You need basic computer skills to operate project management systems and to organize your teams with planning tools. Sometimes, you also need to analyze data using spreadsheets.
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communication and interpersonal skills
As a project manager, your communication skills help you convey your plans to teams and stakeholders.
frequently asked questions (FAQs).
About a career as a project manager.
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what does a project manager do?
A project manager plans and executes a project from start to finish using a specific methodology. They also manage the resources and budgets allocated to the projects.
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are project managers paid well?
The project manager's earnings depend on academic qualifications and experience. You can earn over 11,000 RON net per month as a senior project manager.
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what are the roles and responsibilities of a project manager?
The responsibilities of a project manager vary depending on the industry. However, some common roles include determining how to execute a project and managing costs. Sometimes, you also need to hire team members and schedule tasks for each team member.
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how can I become a project manager?
You can become a project manager by earning a degree in business or project management. A master's degree will also enhance your leadership skills. Practical experience is another way to enter the profession.
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is project management a good career?
Becoming a project manager is a rewarding and fulfilling career. You'll feel a sense of pride when you complete a project, and the compensation package is attractive.
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how can I apply for a project manager role?
Applying for a project manager position is straightforward: create a Randstad profile and browse our project manager jobs in your area. Then, simply send us your CV. If you don’t have a CV yet, no worries — we’ll help you create one. Need assistance with your application? Check out all our career tips here! Want to stay updated on the latest trends and insights in the job market? Download the newest reports and research here.