How to Become a Program Manager

Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Program Manager

What does a Program Manager do?

A Program Manager coordinates and monitors the scheduling, pricing, and technical performance of company programs. Negotiates and prepares contracts by considering the financial conditions, resources, and contractual requirements. Being a Program Manager develops new business and expands product line. Ensures adherence to master plans and schedules, develops solutions to program problems, and directs work of incumbents assigned to program from various departments. Additionally, Program Manager ensures projects are completed on time and within budget. Acts as advisor to program team regarding projects, tasks, and operations. Prepares proposals to win new programs. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a department head. The Program Manager manages subordinate staff in the day-to-day performance of their jobs. True first level manager. Ensures that project/department milestones/goals are met and adhering to approved budgets. Has full authority for personnel actions. To be a Program Manager typically requires 5 years experience in the related area as an individual contributor. 1 - 3 years supervisory experience may be required. Extensive knowledge of the function and department processes.

People's Opinions on Program Manager responsibilities

A program manager coordinates, manages, and maintains various initiatives or programs for an organization in order to optimize organizational output.

11/28/2019: Knoxville, TN

Program managers are most often found in the technology industry.

11/02/2019: Lincoln, NE

Program management requires years of experience and a solid educational background, including certification.

10/10/2019: Billings, MT

Such programs could include spearheading a new product design initiative, selecting and obtaining the type of machinery needed for the product, communicating any changes to the process across different manufacturing departments, and assisting the product development team on any new tasks.

10/09/2019: Saint Cloud, MN

In this way, a program manager can be thought of as someone who manages programs or products, not employees.

11/18/2019: Seattle, WA
Read all People's Opinions Submit your opinion

Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Program Manager

Best tips for those who want to become a Program Manager

Here are some tips to become a Program Manager.

People's Opinions on best tips

Don’t be afraid to take a unique path to your goal.

11/25/2019: Chillicothe, OH

Structured Volunteer Placements.

10/23/2019: New Britain, CT

Organise your own volunteer placement.

12/27/2019: Worcester, MA

Pick a country, book your flights, and GO.

12/15/2019: Portsmouth, NH

Managers and regular employees have different roles.

12/16/2019: Lincoln, NE
Read all People's Opinions Submit your opinion

Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Program Manager

Best colleges and universities for Program Manager

  • Butler University
  • Carroll College
  • Cooper Union
  • High Point University
  • Princeton University
  • Providence College

Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Program Manager

Is being a Program Manager Worth it?

People's Opinions on lifestyles

As the SLASH program manager, you will responsible for directing and managing the SLASH staff and program.

10/22/2019: Anaheim, CA

As the SLASH program manager, you will be required to have a strong emphasis on program quality and accountability along with a focus on process improvement and program growth.

11/19/2019: Roanoke, VA

Program ManagerProgram ManagerVolt Workforce SolutionsBurbank, CA, US2 weeks agoEasy Apply.

12/17/2019: Corpus Christi, TX

Manager, Program Delivery SolutionsManager, Program Delivery SolutionsKPMG USIrvine, CA, US5 days ago.

10/15/2019: Milwaukee, WI

Program Manager jobs in Los Angeles, CAProgram Manager jobs in Los Angeles, CA97 open jobs.

11/28/2019: Olympia, WA
Read all People's Opinions Submit your opinion

Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Program Manager

What skills do you need to be a Program Manager?

Management is no easy task, and as such, the skill requirements for these types of roles vary greatly.  Chief skills for this role are: Contract Negotiation, Fit/Gap Analysis, Needs Analysis, New Business Development, Program Management, Project Administration, Project Control, Project Development, Project Documentation, Project Estimation, Project Evaluation, Project Implementation, Project Lifecycle Management (PLM), Project Management, Project Planning, Project Portfolio Management (PPM), Project Scheduling, Project Status Reporting, Scope Management, Stakeholder Management.  You would need to be proficient in the following: Project Management Software.  Expertise in these areas will help you land this, or a similar role.

People's Opinions on Program Manager skills

Proficient in handling and leading cross-functional programs.

10/25/2019: Abilene, TX

Thus, your Senior Program Manager skills list should likewise cover basic areas of management.

12/17/2019: Cedar Falls, IA

Detail-oriented Senior Program Manager with 15+ years of experience maximizing productivity across multimillion-dollar projects and programs, facilitating quick ROI with strategic solutions and managing successful programs through the program lifecycle using PMI methodologies.

11/03/2019: Toledo, OH

Collaborate closely with Project Managers and Senior Executives to track KPIs of individual projects and provide a clearer understanding of the big picture.

11/27/2019: Shreveport, LA

Successful technical program managers have all the skills of a strong non-technical program manager.

10/08/2019: Baltimore, MD
Read all People's Opinions Submit your opinion

Step 6: View average salary for Program Manager

How much does a Program Manager make?

The average salary range for a Program Manager is from $128,415 to $171,270. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.

Salary range for a Program Manager
$128,415 to $171,270

Step 7: Find relevant Program Manager jobs, and apply.

Looking for Program Manager jobs?

Here are some Program Manager jobs in the United States.

Search Program Manager Jobs in the United States

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Program Manager