Education requirements
Many people seeking careers in information technology management start out with a bachelor’s degree or advanced certificate. Some even complete a master’s program, which can help you expand your IT skills and gain valuable leadership skills. Many programs also incorporate a business administration curriculum. These degrees can help you get your foot in the door of a management role, and you can earn a higher salary as a result.
In addition to a strong knowledge of programming languages, systems, and network infrastructures, systems managers require critical thinking and analytical problem-solving skills. They must be able to work with executives and entry-level employees alike, coordinating the technology needs of a company. Their responsibilities include assessing company networks, installing upgrades, and developing security strategies. They also oversee the computer-related activities of other departments like management and sales. The best job opportunities for these professionals are found in major metropolitan areas like New York and California, where salaries are the highest.
Job outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer and information systems managers are projected to have robust job opportunities over the next decade. In fact, this profession is among the top ten in terms of job growth. This rapid growth is fueled by the increasing reliance of business enterprises on technology and the need for information systems to manage and optimize this technology. The computer systems design services industry contributes to the high number of job openings for this occupation.
Entry-level systems managers oversee computer activities within organizations, ranging from computer programming and data processing to network operations and information security. These professionals typically have excellent organization, communication, and multitasking skills. They also possess critical thinking and analytical problem-solving abilities. The salary potential of computer and information systems managers varies depending on their level of experience and location. For example, those with more than a decade of experience can expect to earn around $30,000 more per year than those with less experience. The highest salaries are usually found in metropolitan areas, such as New York City and California