Project Manager - Career Profile |
Career OverviewA project manager is responsible for the coordination and implementation of all aspects of a given project. They work closely with the program manager and program director but also have the authority to make decisions based on the goals and desired outcomes of the project. The project manager is responsible for keeping the project on timelines and within budget guidelines as well as troubleshooting problems and keeping both project workers and managers aware of the progress of the project.
A project manager must be able to focus on details and should be able to creatively solve problems and anticipate issues that may slow down or cause problems with completion of the project. Usually this takes a combination of education and experience working in project management.
Excellent written and oral communication skills are a necessary trait of a project manager. They should also be very familiar with each of the tasks required to complete the project. The project manager should be comfortable in writing and explaining the coordination of the project as well as developing detailed timelines and plans to ensure that the project will be completed on time. Coordinating outside services, vendors and contractors may also be the responsibility of the project manager if the specific job requires these resources.
A project manager should be able to break a large and complex task or project down into simple and easily achievable tasks or steps. This ability to outline or detail information takes huge projects and provides an outline for staff and researchers to follow. Organization and coordination of services for the task is the major responsibility of the project manager.
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Career RequirementsMost project managers require a Masters or Bachelor level education in a related field, particularly that of business management or hospital or healthcare administration. A strong background in technology is often required especially if the project is very technology focused or if there will be multiple data entries for the project.
Experience working for several years in a hospital or healthcare facility is usually a requirement for project managers. Some positions may required management experience within the specific are.
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Job OutlookSince organizational skills are so important to managing and effectively completing projects in all settings the demand for project managers is expected to grow at a faster than average rate at least until the year 2014. Those project managers with hospital or healthcare facility experience will be in highest demand and increasing numbers of new facilities open up across the United States in the next several years.
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Career TrackProject managers may choose to move into mid to upper level management positions within a hospital or healthcare facility as they gain experience as project managers. Successful project completion is key to making these advancements within the workforce.
Some project managers may choose to open private consulting businesses and contract to hospitals and healthcare facilities for very specialized projects. This option allows the project manager to train and work exclusively in one type of project.
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CompensationA project manager that works for a hospital or healthcare facility can expect to earn between $60,000 and $80,000 per year. This is usually based on the size of the project, completing the project in or under budget costs, and the total impact of the project to the hospital. Those private project managers that hire by contract can earn over $150,000 per year but are often required to travel.
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