Overview
A project manager plans and oversees the successful completion of projects. Key duties are to coordinate teams, manage resources, and ensure goals are met within budget and time limits.
In Australia, major projects requiring a designated leader are common in sectors like construction and infrastructure, IT, healthcare, engineering, energy and resources, and the public sector. A project manager combines industry knowledge with administrative skills to do their job.
The occupation is generally lucrative, with experienced project managers in high demand. To become one, you need to first gain sector-specific professional experience. PMs often start in project team roles such as construction engineer, software developer, civil engineer, and energy analyst.
Role of the Project Manager
A project manager is responsible for leading a project from start to finish. They plan the project, manage the budget, and lead the team, ensuring objectives are met. They also handle communication with stakeholders and clients.
To get the job done, the project manager adapts to changing situations and solves problems as they arise. By liaising between their project teams and the wider business, they align the outcomes of the project with the business's needs to deliver value.
Key skills to succeed are effective communication, organisational ability, and good time management. Strong problem-solving skills are also crucial for addressing unexpected challenges and keeping projects on course.
Related: How to Become a Project Manager in Australia
8 Key Responsibilities
Every project manager has a diverse set of responsibilities. While some tasks are specific to certain stages of a project, most are integral to their daily role. Here are eight core duties they typically handle in large or complex projects.
1. Plan projects
Define scope, objectives, and methodology.
In this role, the project manager outlines the project's goals, identifies the resources required, and determines the steps needed to achieve the objectives. This involves creating detailed project plans, setting timelines, and ensuring all project aspects align with client and stakeholder expectations.
2. Lead teams
Assemble, guide, and motivate project members.
Project managers recruit and organise a team, providing direction and leadership. They foster a collaborative environment, resolve conflicts, and ensure team members have the skills and resources needed. The manager's guidance is crucial for keeping the team focused and on track.
3. Manage budgets
Oversee financial resources and spending.
This duty involves planning and monitoring the project's budget to ensure financial efficiency and prevent overspending. The project manager allocates funds, tracks expenses, and makes adjustments as necessary, maintaining fiscal responsibility throughout the project lifecycle.
4. Communicate
Maintain open dialogue with stakeholders and clients.
Effective communication is key, involving regular updates and discussions with all project stakeholders. This ensures everyone is informed about progress, changes, and any issues that arise. Good communication skills help in managing expectations and fostering positive relationships.
5. Solve problems
Address issues and implement solutions.
Project managers are responsible for identifying and resolving problems that may impact the project's success. They analyse issues, develop effective solutions, and ensure timely implementation to keep the project on track and minimise disruptions.
6. Monitor progress
Track project milestones and deadlines.
Continuous monitoring of the project's progress against its plan is essential. This involves checking task completion, ensuring deadlines are met, and adjusting schedules as needed. Regular progress reports help in identifying any deviations from the plan and taking corrective actions.
7. Evaluate performance
Assess project outcomes and team efficiency.
After project completion, the manager reviews its overall performance. This evaluation covers meeting objectives, team performance, and resource usage. The insights gained are used for continuous improvement in future projects.
8. Adapt and innovate
Respond to changing needs and emerging challenges.
Project managers must be flexible and open to innovation. They adapt to new information, changing project scopes, and unexpected challenges. This adaptability allows them to find creative solutions and ensures project success despite obstacles.
Are Project Managers in Demand?
Project managers are highly sought after in Australia. We observed 20,855 job openings on Seek posted in just the last 14 days.
The average salary for a project manager usually ranges from $130,000 to $150,000 per year. IT Project Managers typically earn between $135,000 and $155,000 annually, with major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra offering the highest salaries.
Reflecting the skill shortage, roles such as Construction Project Manager, ICT Project Manager, Program or Project Administrator, and Project Builder are on the skilled occupation list for immigration. This inclusion underscores the sector's demand for skilled professionals.
Related: Project Manager Degrees Online in Australia
Professional Qualifications
No special qualifications are required to work in project management. However, extensive experience and skill development are essential, and qualifications are beneficial. As a foundation, you need professional experience in an industry such as construction, telecommunications, IT, or engineering, often complemented by a relevant bachelor degree.
Project management credentials help professionals transition into project management roles and grow their careers. Postgraduate courses are ideal for university graduates and experienced professionals. You can undertake a relatively short Graduate Certificate in Project Management, with the option to progress to a Graduate Diploma or Masters degree.
If you are concerned about education costs, vocational (TAFE) courses are the cheapest project management courses. However, some employers ask for tertiary qualifications in the discipline or high educational attainement. Professional certifications, while generally optional, also validate project management skills.