A technical project manager (PM) deals with many complex work streams simultaneously. They coordinate projects across multiple teams and lead regular meetings to make sure everyone is on the same page. The advantages of having a technical PM are similar to the benefits of a project manager, except that they specialize in the technical aspects of a project.
They are also responsible for managing overall plans, adherence to deadlines, and liaising with non-technical stakeholders to ensure projects stay on track. You can also consult them when it comes time to hire a freelance project manager for other parts of your business.
Critical Aspects of a Technical Project Manager
Some of the critical responsibilities owned by a technical project manager involve creating a vision for company teams, developing structured frameworks, troubleshooting, and managing different project components. All of these action items must happen within a stipulated time frame set forth by management.
Depending on the organization, a technical project manager’s responsibilities and fundamental strategies can vary. They also sit at the center of three key players—the tech team, the business, and the client.
Technical Project Manager Skills
A technical project manager is a master of many complex and interdisciplinary skills. They need to use their specialized expertise and know-how to decode the jargon and keep abreast of the latest business technological advancements.
Being a technical project manager can also be a bit of a juggling act. It requires the mastery of a broad range of hard and soft skills that allow them to navigate some of the problems and obstacles that arise when handling complex projects. You could even say that this role is the ultimate test of leadership abilities when considering just how demanding their job is in today’s market.
Technical project managers also:
- Have the unique ability to work well with people.
- Support team members so they can function at optimum levels.
- Help colleagues come together and work as a team.
- Have a flexible mindset.
- Can quickly develop solutions to problems.
- Keep everyone working towards the same goal.
Technical Project Manager vs. Traditional Project Manager
The role of a technical project manager tends to differ from that of a conventional project manager because of the complex expertise required. For instance, the migration of microservices from one setting to another could have immense business value, but could also be complicated to do.
The job requires an in-depth understanding of the technical infrastructure, potential bottlenecks, and software configurations. However, it also requires specialized knowledge not traditionally taught in most project management courses.
Some of the other responsibilities of a technical project manager may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Creating and implementing strategies and training processes for all technical staff.
- Planning, analyzing and establishing standards and requirements for scheduled projects.
- Assigning and overseeing the day-to-day tasks of technical staff while ensuring that all subordinates are actively working toward the achievement of established milestones.
- Leading regular technical team meetings to keep on top of the progress being made and to address project-related questions and challenges.
- Defining and determining roles, responsibilities and deliverables for staff members needed for specific project initiatives.
- Researching and evaluating software and hardware technology options and analyzing the cost/benefit ratio when making large purchases on behalf of the business.
- Recruiting and training qualified staff to fulfill open positions within the technical department.
- Updating and maintaining all production technologies, so everything runs smoothly.
Details Associated With a Technical Project Manager
A technical project manager is both an inspiring leader and a tech guru. They play an instrumental role in the management and planning of IT-related projects. So if you want such a person to work in your company, you must ensure that they have a high level of technical expertise and organizational talent, as well as leadership and communication skills.
According to figures provided by the US Department of Labor, companies all over the country can expect to generate over 55,000 job openings for technical project managers, accounting for incredible growth in this sector.
Final Thoughts
A technical project manager’s daily routine can vary considerably depending on the company they work for and the stage of the project under their care. In most cases, they spend a considerable portion of their time tracking the progress of different projects, adjusting timelines, preparing budgets, and allocating resources where needed.
Most days, technical project managers will meet with internal and external stakeholders, take a tour of the worksite when applicable, and document the progress of projects for their records and upper management. They might also spend time preparing for the next project while supervising and completing an existing one.
If this sounds like a person your company needs, check out Guru.com to find the perfect candidate. Once you do, your projects are one step closer to going off without a hitch!
