As I have recently re-entered the job market, I notice a trend regarding postings for Project Manager roles. The job description uses all the PM keywords and duties, yet when it comes to qualifications, employers are looking for particular skills and education that do not seem to align with the PM role. I can appreciate certain trades (construction) require an in-depth knowledge of the industry to be effective but the shift away from a structured, certified PM role to that of it being a task is somewhat concerning. More than 75% of the roles I have found are requiring such specialization as MBA, degrees in Architecture, Engineering, Medicine, etc. Ironically, the PMP designation (or similar certifications) are often labelled as 'nice to have' or 'preferred'. As a PM with more than ten years of experience, I am confident I can lead anything from a project to a PMO, regardless of my subject expertise. My skills in PMing are just as critical and important as, dare I say, more valuable than a team member or lead who is fulfilling the role of PM off the side of their desk. It would be helpful to hear this community's thoughts and comments on this topic, as it may very well change my career options. Saving Changes...
"I can appreciate certain trades (construction) require an in-depth knowledge of the industry to be effective but the shift away from a structured, certified PM role to that of it being a task is somewhat concerning. More than 75% of the roles I have found are requiring such specialization as MBA, degrees in Architecture, Engineering, Medicine, etc. Ironically, the PMP designation (or similar certifications) are often labelled as 'nice to have' or 'preferred'."
You appear to agree there has to be some level of technical knowledge. I understand and can relate to you!
I work Public Works. In my field, a Licensed Civil Engineer fresh out of school with minimal experience will carry more weight. Would a seasoned PM be able to hire a Licensed Civil Engineer as a SME?
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1 reply by Keith Novak
Dec 13, 2022 7:18 PM
Keith Novak
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What you describe is the classic Systems Engineering business model. The SE works for the PM as the technical principal. The two interact extensively as the technical decisions have business implications and vice versa. When a project is involved enough, it's impossible to do both roles effectively.
That's commonly seen in aerospace where PE licenses don't really apply. PMs will almost always need domain knowledge, but there are so many detailed knowledge areas that they come from one and learn at least the high level important aspects of the other disciplines involved in the project.
"I can appreciate certain trades (construction) require an in-depth knowledge of the industry to be effective but the shift away from a structured, certified PM role to that of it being a task is somewhat concerning. More than 75% of the roles I have found are requiring such specialization as MBA, degrees in Architecture, Engineering, Medicine, etc. Ironically, the PMP designation (or similar certifications) are often labelled as 'nice to have' or 'preferred'."
You appear to agree there has to be some level of technical knowledge. I understand and can relate to you!
I work Public Works. In my field, a Licensed Civil Engineer fresh out of school with minimal experience will carry more weight. Would a seasoned PM be able to hire a Licensed Civil Engineer as a SME?
What you describe is the classic Systems Engineering business model. The SE works for the PM as the technical principal. The two interact extensively as the technical decisions have business implications and vice versa. When a project is involved enough, it's impossible to do both roles effectively.
That's commonly seen in aerospace where PE licenses don't really apply. PMs will almost always need domain knowledge, but there are so many detailed knowledge areas that they come from one and learn at least the high level important aspects of the other disciplines involved in the project. Saving Changes...
Hi everyone, nowadays, no matter where, when I see a job posting looking for a PM, what I actually see is a job posting looking for someone who has to have some specific skills, like huge knowledge of some programming languages, or practically what the recruiter pretend is an engineer....
For me, it is obviously that if you are an engineer, you don't want to PM job.
I don't know why is that, but I think is not good for the market. Saving Changes...
Vijay SuryavanshiProject Manager - Engineering| RECARO Aircraft SeatingPlantation, Fl, United States
Agree totally with Kiron and Thomas comments..
While the PM skills are transferrable industry to industry, my experience also has been that industries are little hesitant to hire a person with project management experience outside of their domain. Know yourself well. Your resume and experience. (major domain). See what you can bring to the table and to what sort of industries. Leverage what you have and build. Then you will stand a better chance to breaking the barriers. Saving Changes...
Latha Thamma reddiSr Product and Portfolio Management (Automation Innovation)| DXC TechnologyMckinney, Tx, United States
Unfortunately, many leadership teams make up for skillset shortfall by expecting folks to wear multiple hats, and PMs are not immune to this expectation. Saving Changes...
