Learn about the required skills, salary potential, and daily responsibilities of a project management officer. Discover statistics surrounding industry growth, common qualifications, and employment opportunity.
Overview
Project management officers oversee a company’s project activities, coordinating tasks, managing schedules, setting budgets, and collating all necessary documents. They maintain project standards according to client requirements, and provide team members with the resources and guidance they need to see projects to completion.
These professionals are typically in charge of a business’ project portfolio, ensuring all are prioritized and aligned to the company’s short and long-term goals. They offer regular reports on the progress of these projects – including milestones achieved, budget performance, and risks identified. Where they can, project management officers may also streamline and automate specific processes, helping boost team productivity.
Aspiring project managers can expect an employment boost in the next five years – with a projected 6.2% job growth, according to SEEK statistics.
Key Skills
Excellent interpersonal/communication skills for leading and guiding project teams
Keen attention to detail; can account for all project elements during the planning stage, as well as monitor progress for any issues or potential risks
Excellent coordination and organisational skills
High adaptability; able to successfully redirect a project according to changing circumstances
Strong financial skills for setting and controlling realistic budgets
Strong negotiation skills for dealing with contractors, vendors, and other stakeholders
Quick Facts
Project management officers can find work in most regions of Australia, with New South Wales currently holding the largest share of workers. Weekly salary potential is currently higher ($1,660) than the all job average ($1,460) with plenty of opportunity for full-time work.
Salary Range
$65,000 - $149,000 (Median: $98,704)*
*Source: Payscale
Average Weekly Hours
43 hours (vs. all jobs average of 44 hours)*
*Source: Job Outlook
Main Industries
Public Administration and Safety; Construction; and Education and Training
Most Common Qualification Level
31.4% hold a Bachelor’s Degree
STUDY PATHWAYS
Getting the skills you need is simple by studying one of our information technology courses below.
*Sources: payscale.com.au and joboutlook.gov.au – All information is to be used as a guide only, and are accurate at the time of publication.
