Project Manager Career Guide: Everything You Need to Know
The Workplace
The Workplace
The project manager role is one of the most important and versatile roles across a wide variety of industries, including Life Sciences, Mining, Oil & Gas, and Renewable Energy. A career as a project manager can be extremely rewarding and provide excellent opportunities for promotion and career advancement.
In this in-depth Project Manager career guide, we’ll take a closer look at everything you need to know about a Project Manager career path. We’ll pay special attention to what project managers do, salary ranges, education requirements, any certifications you may need, and how you can become a Project Manager.
It's obvious from the name that the role of a Project Manager is to manage projects. Still, looking deeper than that, Project Managers are among the most important team members in any organization. Project management professionals are critical in ensuring that the goals, people, resources, budgets, and timelines of their assigned projects are all aligned in order for final products to be created on time and on budget.
Project planning has a lot of variables and requires a lot of hard work that may not be immediately obvious. This includes creating project plans, setting project milestones, allocating resources, monitoring progress, motivating employees, and satisfying clients/stakeholders. There are typically 5 phases of a project that a manager will guide their team through. These 5 phases are:
These project phases will vary depending on the industry and project scope.
In addition to ensuring that projects are delivered on time, a good Project Manager can be a key to employee retention. This is because project Managers serve as the line of communication between stakeholders, clients, and team members, representing the interests of each group simultaneously.
For example, suppose a team of employees feels overworked and burned out. In that case, a Project Manager's role is to speak with management and other stakeholders about employee concerns and adjust the project timeline and constraints accordingly. On the other hand, stakeholders rely on Project Managers to give timely, accurate information about a project's status and keep each team member focused on execution.
Project Managers are crucial across all types of projects in every industry, and project or product management skills are valuable for any professional.
Depending on the specific project or product being managed, a role as a Project Manager can require various unique technical skills. Still, many soft skills will be universal to any Project Management job. To start a career in project planning, it is best to develop the following project management skills and find ways to highlight them on your resume:
There aren't any hard and fast rules when it comes to education requirements for an entry-level project management job, there are some trends in the data worth noting. It is most common for Project Managers to have at least a Bachelor's degree. According to reports, roughly 68% of all people working as Project Managers have a Bachelor's degree. Roughly 14% of Project Managers and 19% of Senior Project Managers have a Master's degree.
Regarding college majors, the most popular degree for Project Managers is Business (29%). However, many Project Managers have more specific, technical degrees in fields like Engineering, Computer Science, Software Development, or Construction.
In addition to your years of experience as a manager, Project Management certifications are one of the first things an employer will look at when reading your resume. Here are some of the most helpful certifications to help you stand out as a job applicant:
According to Salary.com, as of December 2022, the average salary for an entry-level Project Management job in the United States is $70,614. The range for Project Manager salaries typically fell between $62,810 and $79,874 for these entry-level positions.
The Project Management Institute (PMI) found that the average Project Manager's salary is much higher for employees with more experience. According to the PMI report, Project Managers with 5-10 years of experience on average make $100,000 a year, with PMP-certified managers making even more at $108,000.
Becoming a project manager typically involves a combination of formal education and professional work experience. As previously discussed, a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Business, Engineering, Construction Management, or another industry where you would like to work is a great place to start. While some employers also prefer candidates with a Master's degree in Project Management, this is not typically a requirement. However, like in any field, a Master’s degree may improve your long-term earning potential.
Additionally, gaining hands-on experience is essential. Having real-world experience with the types of projects you are managing will give you greater credibility and influence with both team members and stakeholders. For example, if you want to work as a Project Manager for a technology company, it is best to have prior experience as a team member for a similar company.
Obtaining a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is highly valued by many employers and can help speed up your career advancement. The certification requires a certain amount of experience and passing an exam. Learn more about PMP certification here.
Location: New Orleans
Branche: Mining
Expertise: Quality Management
Experience: 5 years
Brunel has an exciting opportunity for a Project Manager (Electrical & Instrumentation) supporting our client who are a leading mining company. This contractor role will be in New Orleans on a rotational basis, accommodations and travel provided. Potential business trips to Indonesia. This is not a site Project Manager position; you will work in an engineering office managing the design and execution with emphasis on the electrical and instrumentation disciplines. Manage project development studies, engineering, procurement, and construction management activities on major capital projects. Reports to the Director Engineering. Review and/or develop scopes of work for potential projects within the company. Provide technical and costing guidance for strategic mine development projects. Responsible for planning and implementation of major capital projects, with particular focus on assuring that the efforts of engineering contractors and consultants meet project objectives. Responsible to monitor engineering work performance and control scope, quality, safety, cost, and schedule on projects. Analyze and recommend solutions to a wide range of problems effecting operations. Review and optimize electrical and instrumentation engineering designs to reduce project costs. Support senior project managers in projects with a value in excess of $2 billion. Perform other duties as required. Bachelor's Degree in an Engineering discipline or related field and a minimum of 8 years related experience in mineral processing plant layout, Comminution circuit design, material handling systems, leaching and hydromet plant design, mechanical design, process control, soil mechanics, tailing storage facilities, and/or water supply systems. OR High School Diploma and thirteen (13) years related experience in mineral processing plant layout, Comminution circuit design, material handling systems, leaching and hydromet plant design, mechanical design, process control, soil mechanics, tailing storage facilities, and/or water supply systems. Knowledge of the principles and practices of project management, engineering, project controls, contract administration, procurement, expediting, materials management (logistics), construction and contracting. Proven experience in the management of mining, heavy industrial and capital projects with a value exceeding $500 million. Proficient in the use of personal computers in a business environment. MS Word, Excel, Outlook, essential Here at Brunel, we offer extraordinary earning potential followed by a very competitive benefit package. We provide the tools for success; world-class training and advanced technology to ensure you succeed within Brunel.Large global mining company.
Location: WFH
Branche: Mining
Expertise: Controlling
Experience: 5 years
Manages and oversees project controls functional area for very large multidisciplinary high risk capital engineering and construction projects from FEED to operations. Responsible for project planning and scheduling, cost estimating and monitoring, progress measurement, risk management and reporting. Manages project controls personnel. Responsible for establishing operating policies to mitigate risk. Provides guidance and consultation for project managers and corporate management. Experienced with a variety of the field's concepts, practices, and procedures. Relies on extensive experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Essential Functions: Guide and direct resolution of project difficulties and complex project control issues. Strong analytical skills required to review all project controls information and ensure accuracy as well as identify issues, concerns and potential mitigations. Interact with the Project Management team and corporate management team and participate in regular project meetings. Gather information and prepare reports and presentations of information as needed on the project.
Location: Beaumont, TX
Branche: Conventional Energy
Expertise: Production & Manufacturing
Experience: 5 years
Performs engineering design evaluations and works to complete projects within budget and scheduling restraints. Reviews industry policies and procedures to ensure data accuracy, security, and regulatory compliance. Reviews reports of production, malfunction, and maintenance to determine or address problems. Provides technical support for the engineering process. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Works under immediate supervision. Primary job functions do not typically require exercising independent judgment. Back up responsibilities for the Project Manager as required Participates in Invitation to Tender (ITT) development, bid evaluation and contractor selection Participates in identification & sourcing long lead equipment, assuring Front End Engineering Design (FEED) contractor support until equipment is assigned to the contractor Coordinates development of Company Capital Project Management System Gate 3 deliverables Coordinates development of Functional Interaction Plan Coordinates project issues resolution process Coordinates change requests & endorses change authorization Responsible for the completion of the assigned work scope consistent with the Project Objectives Engages Project Team and functional resources to verify that the design & construction is consistent with project specifications & standards Serves as interface between Project Team & Contractor Ensures smooth transitions between project stages Leads Project Management Team (PMT) in applying Project Management Systems
Location: Bagdad
Branche: Mining
Expertise: Production & Manufacturing
Experience: 5 years
Responsible for day-to-day support of the Owner's team construction management including execution planning, phasing, scheduling, constructability reviews, and continuing throughout the execution and commissioning phases of the project. Emphasis to be on integration with site operations, jobsite health and safety, environmental protection and labor relations of major refining and metallurgical process facilities projects. The scope of this position includes all aspects of project construction management from planning stages through field execution and commissioning activities, with hand-off to the site operations team for beneficial operation. Reports to the Project Manager.
Location: El Paso
Branche: Mining
Expertise: Production & Manufacturing
Experience: 4 years
We have a current opportunity for a Construction Manager on a contract basis. The position will be based in Phoenix. For further information about this position please apply.
Location: Cleveland
Branche: Mining
Expertise: Transport & Logistics
Experience: 4 years
In this role you will provide leadership for the Supply Chain Services team which includes; Material Planners, Analysts, Forecasting and Traffic. This position reports directly to the Managing Director of Operations and will work closely with Operations, Finance and other departments. Duties:* Develop and deploy the supply chain service expert, based on existing services to existing customers (package and develop products and services based on real operational experience to be resold), on market demand and on insights.* Provide Supply Chain BD expert support to BD opportunities.* Develop own BD opportunities, in close communication with BD.* Process/KPI/systems and tools owner for Supply Chain.* Provide internal Supply Chain services to Ops and Product Sales.* Optimize, develop and maintain Supply Chain and Operational processes.* Support in starting up new branches/projects.* Support and coordinate customer and supplier problems in cooperation with Ops.* Follow-up and coordinate change management.* Manage inventory, obsolescence and packaging.* Develop, Optimize and maintain freight strategies and cost by building up long term partnerships.* Escalate market and organizational needs and opportunities and work on continuous improvement projects to adapt to the changing and challenging environment.* Train, coach and manage the local team as well as remote teams.
Location: New Orleans
Branche: Mining
Expertise: Quality Management
Experience: 5 years
Brunel is currently searching for an Engineering Manager for a long-term contract opportunity on a 4x1 rotation in New Orleans, LA.The primary purpose of this position is to provide engineering management in the planning, design and execution of capital projects. You would be responsible for the design scope, engineering schedule and budget. In addition, you will manage the planning, resourcing and scheduling of all engineering related activities and provide leadership and integrates the engineering disciplines into one team. Responsible to deliver all engineering deliverables to achieve the project objectives (scope and quality) within the specified timeframe and budget.Duties:* Ensures input to scope definition for the appropriate Stage Gate are firm and meet company requirements before commencing work.* Approve the Engineering Execution Plans (EEP) and contribute to the Project Execution Plans (PEP). Ensure scope of work is developed and effective change management system is in place to manage scope changes.* Review the engineering budgets to meet the scope and execution plan for the project. Review the Engineering Work Packages (EWPs) for all deliverable and time-based functions.* Review the engineering schedule and overall project schedule to ensure it meets project requirements and guides overall project scheduled development. Review the engineering manpower plan to meet the engineering schedule.* Coordinate with Procurement, Construction, Commissioning, Operations and other Corporate functional groups early in the design effort to obtain their input and conduct any necessary reviews.* Regularly review and appraise the structure of engineering project team in terms of its ability to meet short and long-term objectives and recommend appropriate changes. Ensure that Engineering Systems and 3D intelligent design environment is properly setup and being used. Direct and review the engineering activities to ensure that work quality is satisfactory and meets company objectives. Raise safety awareness and ensure the corporate design for safely principles are applied to the project.* Ensure engineering risk assessments and HAZOPs are carried out and all identified issues are addressed. Arrange and facilitate design reviews, key engineering review milestones and participate as required in engineering, management and construction reviews. Coordinate quality audit verifications to ensure compliance with all relevant engineering standards and internal procedures for all design activities. Recommend and execute corrective actions as required.* Identify and/or develop options for value optimization through application of best practices, considering synergies across the full project scope and all project disciplines. Provide discipline engineering and project engineers with guidance on scope, design criteria, tenders, safety as well as environmental and legal documents as required.* Ensure compliance with company technical standards throughout project development and execution phases. Contribute to the development of an integrated engineering management methodology across all studies and execution projects, including commissioning and start up.* Ensures the flow of valuable and analyzed information and reporting to the Corporate Management Team as it relates to Contracts management plans, status and results.* Develop and maintain Project Engineering Management framework to facilitate world class delivery of capital projects.Scope:* Works on large-scale project or oversee multiple projects with complex contractual related issues and implements solutions mostly through the analysis of the situation and determination of strategy and delegation to others in the project team.* Often collaborates with managers and/or functional or site leaders and has some interaction with external colleagues. It also requires direct interaction with contractors' representative and other external agents.* Works under limited supervision and has significant latitude to set objectives, priorities and timelines that may impact a group or functional area within the company.* Prepares budget for review by others by pulling all components together and making recommendations.* Manages other managers, supervisors and mid-level professional individual contributors.Requirements:* Bachelor's degree in Engineering discipline AND 10 years' experience in engineering field, OR* Master's degree in Engineering discipline AND 8 years of experience in engineering field.* Experience managing design engineering teams working on large scale projects for the mining industry.* Experience leading teams of engineers both as the owner as well as on the EPC side.* An extensive technical knowledge of engineering systems, design, applications of engineering processes and materials, and engineering applications of current engineering technologies.* General knowledge of industry, regulatory standards and design criteria in engineering disciplines.* Ability to plan, coordinate and organize at an advanced level.* Comprehensive knowledge of project planning, controls and understanding of multi-discipline interdependencies.* Knowledge of drawing production and document control methodologies.* Knowledge of progress assessment and measurement and engineering control strategies.* An extensive knowledge of administrative practices and strong communication skills across all levels.* Ability to manage relationships with key stakeholders involved in the project.* A high degree of understanding of how engineering interacts with procurement and contracting, construction and commissioning disciplines throughout the project lifecycle.* Ability to lead, motivate and inspire others, transfer expertise, and provide a coaching role to others in terms of best practice.* Ability to handle complex problem-solving tasks, applying appropriate analysis and consideration of high-level technical detail.Brunel is an EEO Employer:We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified candidates will receive consideration for all positions without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. Brunel participates in the E-Verify Employment Verification Program.
Location: Denver
Branche: Mining
Expertise: Quality Management
Experience: 5 years
Overview: As a Senior Structural Geotechnical Engineer, you will perform design and lead contractors for civil, structural, and geotechnical disciplines. Provide subject matter expertise in a relevant discipline to support capital projects including concentrators, tailings storage facilities (TSF), heap leach pads, and associated infrastructure continuously improving the framework for sustaining stewardship and procedures. Serve as resource for structural design, water management, and geotechnical analysis for facilities in conjunction with the Dam's geotechnical SME if applicable. This role is responsible for delivering high-quality, cost-efficient designs and project management in support of our capital projects. Main Responsibilities: Collaborate in engineering projects to ensure good performance of structural facilities such as pump stations and pipeline systems for TSF. Geotechnical investigation for concentrator or facilities Supervise or serve as Project Manager or technical expert on large/complex site planning/construction, expansion or modifications. Lead contractors in the execution of project deliverables. Provide Senior level quality assurance on project deliverables. Identify value engineering opportunities. Develop and/or review scopes of work, evaluate proposals, draft formalized internal requests for funding, and administer contracts with vendors for the provision of services and equipment as approved and required. Identify opportunities for improvements and determine associated value for risk reduction measures. Interface with Project Management and Operations teams as the Engineering team representative leading up to and through project commercial operations to ensure timely and complete transfer of technical deliverables. Attend site visits to support site evaluation, suitability, and due diligence efforts. Leadership Responsibilities: Operate independently to achieve company and project goals. Provide reporting to other groups and leadership. Manage and /or mentor engineers in key practice areas to level of capabilities. Assist in the development of work and process flow for corporate team. Ability to provide positive and constructive feedback.
Location: Carlsbad
Branche: Conventional Energy
Expertise: Controlling
Experience: 4 years
JOB TITLE: Planning Technician III LOCATION: Malaga, NM **Per diem and truck allowance are provided (no relocation assistance).** JOB DESCRIPTION: The Planning Technician III provides critical support to the Project Planning & Reporting Team Lead and team members, ensuring seamless operations and communication across various project teams. This role involves coordinating meetings, workshops, and presentations while performing detailed data analysis, reporting, and information management. TASKS & RESPONSIBILITIES: Meeting Coordination: Organize and facilitate management meetings, workshops, and events to ensure flawless execution, including the preparation of materials. Presentation Development: Create, compile, format, and refine management presentations, working closely with business teams to gather and incorporate input. Reporting: Prepare and review project status reports in collaboration with project management teams. Information Gathering: Collect data from support groups, project managers, and team members to support decision-making and reporting. Performance Monitoring: Assist the team in monitoring and reporting project performance metrics. Data Management: Analyze data using spreadsheets, manage complex databases, and ensure data integrity. SharePoint Administration: Organize electronic information, design and manage team SharePoint sites, and archive relevant project documentation. Advanced Support: Administer specialized software, oversee contract management, cost monitoring, accruals, and service requisitions. Document Management: Maintain and organize project presentations and files systematically. This role requires a motivated individual with exceptional organizational and analytical capabilities, capable of supporting high-level project teams and management effectively.
Location: Bagdad
Branche: Mining
Expertise: Quality Management
Experience: 4 years
Brunel has an exciting opportunity for a Quantity Surveyor supporting our client who a large global mining company. This contractor role will be in Arizona on a rotational basis, accommodations and travel provided. Quantity Measurement and Estimation: Conduct accurate and detailed quantity surveys including excavation, drilling, blasting, hauling and infrastructure development. Cost Control: Collaborate with project managers and engineering teams to estimate costs, develop budgets, and monitor expenses throughout the project lifecycle. Identify cost-saving opportunities and recommend appropriate strategies. Resource Allocation: Assess the quantity and quality of materials, equipment, and labor required. Ensure efficient resource allocation and utilization to meet project objectives while minimizing wastage. Progress Monitoring: Track and document progress, including quantity of work completed and actual costs incurred. Prepare progress reports and provide timely updates to project stakeholders. Variations and Claims Management: Analyze variations and claims related to quantities, costs, and scope changes. Assess their impact on project timelines and costs and provide recommendations for resolution. Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate records and documentation related to quantity surveys, cost estimates, and project progress. Prepare comprehensive reports, including quantity takeoffs, cost breakdowns, and cost forecasts. Education: Bachelor's degree in quantity surveying, Civil Engineering, or a related field. A relevant professional certification is preferred. Experience: Minimum of 6 years' experience as a Quantity Surveyor in the construction and/or industry, with a strong focus on field operations. Ability to analyze complex data, identify trends, and make accurate projections. Strong problem-solving skills to address cost-related challenges. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines. Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy in quantity assessments and cost calculations. Ability to work effectively in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. Willingness to travel and work on-site as required. Proficient in the use of personal computers in a business environment: MS Word, Excel, Outlook, is essential. Here at Brunel, we offer extraordinary earning potential followed by a very competitive benefit package. We provide the tools for success; world-class training and advanced technology to ensure you succeed within Brunel. Large global mining company.
Location: Bagdad
Branche: Mining
Expertise: HSEQ
Experience: 3 years
Candidate will be responsible for ensuring quality and compliance with design specifications, regulatory codes and laws as an Owner's Project Team member. Implement overall QA/QC Management System at site Verify quality related site activities are in accordance with the applicable codes and standards Distribute relevant QA/QC documentation to site subcontractors Coordinate quality inspections walkdowns with all the superintendents, site subcontractors and vendors Coordinate QA/QC Standards with Owner's Construction Field Superintendents Coordinate all non-destructive testing on-site Coordinate all inspections, documentation, and QA/QC walkdown images as required Participate in internal and external site quality audits
Location: Laredo
Branche: Life Sciences
Expertise: Transport & Logistics
Experience: 5 years
The Vice President, of Southern Border Operations, will be responsible for planning, organizing, executing, and managing all aspects of the Southern Border Operations. This includes but is not limited to, developing and implementing new strategy and business plan roadmaps, establishing relationships with Mexican Brokers, creating and executing a business growth plan, organizational structure, and strategies for retaining customers, and ensuring compliance with regulations, policies, and procedures governing operations. Develops and implements the overall Southern Border strategy and business plan for the organization, including 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year roadmaps. Collaborates with the senior leadership team to determine, prioritize, and execute the company's overall business strategy. Where requested will act as the legal representative for the company's operation in Mexico. Establishes strong relationships with customers, Mexican Brokers, and other lines of business to improve the company's processes, reporting, and service delivery. Collaborate with IT and other 3rd parties to maintain or enhance system abilities to gain efficiency and reporting capabilities. Working in conjunction with the Business Development Team, create and execute a business growth plan, organizational structure, and strategies for retaining customers, growing existing business, and developing new business to achieve the company's revenue targets. Work with the Director of Compliance to identify customer opportunities in valuation, classification, qualification, solicitation, FTAs, customs audits, and duty drawback. Co-ordinate projects and participate in RFQ responses & profitability analysis of new and existing accounts. Prepare, analyze, and report on monthly productivity and financial results. Develop and implement operational plans in collaboration with necessary parties aligned at taking operations to the next level including Lean, 5s, Kaizen, TQM, and continuous improvement disciplines or strategies. Ensure all clients have Service Level Agreements (SLA's). Plan, organize, and monitor all activities of the Mexican business units, including how to structure shared services within the US southern border and Mexico to optimize the company's service delivery in a cost-effective manner. Set, maintain, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs). Ensure the timely processing of transactions by establishing specific audit criteria and measurement reports, key focus on time to invoice and invoicing accuracy. Develop, implement, and continuously improve departmental processes to increase efficiencies and improve client satisfaction. Consult with significant business partners, carriers, freight agents, and trade associations, including Servicio de Administración Tributaria (SAT), and Mexican Brokers with a specific emphasis on systems and dataflow. Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations, policies, and procedures governing operations at the southern border. Applying sound ethical judgment regarding personal behavior, conduct, and business practices, escalating, managing, and reporting control issues with transparency, as well as effectively supervising the activity of others and creating accountability with those who fail to maintain these standards. Fosters and embodies transparent communication and encourages self-awareness and growth with staff and teams for optimal cohesion. Promotes an environment where teams are encouraged to try new things to continuously drive innovation and growth. Ability to mentor, coach, train, and develop talent for succession in a scaling company. Leads by example and holds self and others to their commitments. Provide structure and long-term direction to the Operations department. Supervises staff, including hiring, reviewing performance, recommending salary increases, promotions, transfers, demotions, or terminations. Other duties as assigned.
Interested in more Career Guides, Explainers, Tips, and the latest Job Openings from some of the world's leading companies in Life Sciences, Mining, Oil & Gas, and Renewable Energy? Be sure to follow Brunel on LinkedIn and Instagram so that you can see all of our new content to help you find your dream job.
Join Brunel’s powerful global network, where passionate, results-driven specialists come together with industry-leading clients. By connecting specialists to pioneering projects, we drive change in many industries, enabling growth and delivering great outcomes. Brunel helps you reach your full potential and empowers you to make an impact within a purpose-driven global company.