Description

The principal role of a technical project manager is to develop and maintain a technology project plan, which outlines a project's tasks, milestone dates, status, and allocation of resources to stakeholders and other interested parties. The technical project manager is responsible for clearly defining and quantifying each step, as well as establishing concrete deadlines for each project milestone and deliverable. To this end, they have must have a demonstrated ability to anticipate problems and to find resolutions before that problem can derail a major milestone or deliverable. Since the typical project has a long life cycle, the technical project manager handles all of the complex aspects of the project; these aspects may be subject to constant change to accommodate market and economic conditions that directly affect implementation costs, market viability, and the organization’s potential profit or loss on the project.The technical project manager should have at least a bachelor's degree in management information systems (MIS), computer science, or a related engineering field. In addition, they will have one or more certifications from PMI (the Project Management Institute) that demonstrate understanding of the fundamentals of project management, knowledge of the terminology, and processes of effective project management. The technical project manager should have superior communications skills, since they mediate disputes, as well as resolve scheduling and asset utilization conflicts.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Technical Project Manager with 6-9 years of experience in Canada, your main responsibilities include:

  • Oversee the end-to-end execution of complex technical projects, ensuring adherence to timelines, budget, and quality standards. You are responsible for managing the entire project lifecycle, from initiation to completion, and ensuring that project goals are met within the specified constraints.
  • Lead cross-functional teams, providing guidance and support to team members, promoting collaboration, and fostering a positive work environment. You are responsible for coordinating and motivating teams comprising developers, engineers, designers, and other stakeholders to achieve project objectives.
  • Develop and maintain project plans, including defining project scope, objectives, deliverables, and resource allocation. You are responsible for creating and updating project plans, outlining the tasks, milestones, and dependencies required for successful project execution.
  • Communicate project status, risks, and issues to stakeholders, facilitating effective decision-making and managing expectations.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Technical Project Manager, the following qualifications are required:

  • In-depth technical knowledge and understanding of various software development methodologies and programming languages to effectively communicate with the development team and provide guidance throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Strong project management skills to develop and execute project plans, including defining project scope, setting timelines, allocating resources, and managing project risks.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to foster collaboration and maintain effective communication with stakeholders, clients, and team members, ensuring everyone is aligned and informed throughout the project.
  • Proven leadership abilities to motivate and inspire the project team, facilitating a positive and productive work environment, and ensuring successful project completion within budget and schedule constraints.

Essential Skills For Technical Project Manager

1

Project Budget

2

Project Planning

3

Project Management

4

Written Communication

Skills That Affect Technical Project Manager Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Program or Project Management

16%

Technical Management

7%

Agile Software Development

7%

Project Management

5%

Career Prospects

The role of a Technical Project Manager is crucial in overseeing and managing technical projects. For professionals with 6-9 years of experience in Canada, several alternative roles are available to explore. Here are four options to consider:

  • IT Operations Manager: A role that involves overseeing the day-to-day operations of an organization's IT infrastructure and ensuring its smooth functioning.
  • Product Manager: A position focused on developing and managing the lifecycle of a product, from ideation to launch, and ensuring its success in the market.
  • Agile Coach: A role that involves coaching and guiding teams in implementing agile methodologies and ensuring efficient project delivery.
  • Technology Consultant: A position that offers expertise and advice to clients on technology-related matters, helping them optimize their IT strategies and systems.

How to Learn

According to recent data from Google, the projected growth of the Technical Project Manager role in Canada is significant. Over the past 10 years, the job has experienced a steady increase in demand, and this trend is expected to continue in the future. The role offers a promising career path with numerous employment opportunities available. With ongoing advancements in technology and the increasing complexity of projects, the need for skilled Technical Project Managers is likely to surge. In conclusion, the Technical Project Manager position in Canada is projected to have strong growth prospects, providing ample job opportunities in the coming years.