What does an it manager do? Duties, pay, education and outlook
Computer and information systems managers plan, coordinate and direct computer-related activities in an organization. A bachelor's degree plus several years of IT experience is typical. BLS reports a median pay of $175,140 per year (May 2025). Figures are from the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
At a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| SOC code | 11-3021 |
| O*NET code | 11-3021.00 |
| Typical entry education | Bachelor's degree |
| Median annual wage | $175,140 per year (May 2025) |
| Projected growth | 16 percent (much faster than average), 2025 to 2035 |
| Number of jobs | 685,800 (2025) |
Source: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, accessed 31 October 2026.
What does an it manager do?
BLS says these managers assess IT needs and recommend upgrades, plan and direct hardware and software installation and maintenance, set up processes to detect, prevent and mitigate security threats, weigh project costs and benefits, determine departmental staffing needs, direct IT staff such as analysts, developers and support specialists, and negotiate with and monitor vendors.
Work environment
They usually work in an office setting, and most work full time, some over 40 hours a week. Computer systems design employs 19 percent, finance and insurance 13 percent, information 13 percent and management of companies 10 percent.
Education, training and licensing
BLS says a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology or a related field is typical, and some employers require or prefer a graduate degree. BLS lists 5 years or more of related experience, usually in a related IT job. Certification is typically optional, though some employers prefer it, especially for IT security roles.
Skills that matter
BLS lists analytical, communication, computer, decision-making, leadership and problem-solving skills as important qualities for this work.
How much does an it manager make?
BLS reports a median annual wage of $175,140 for computer and information systems managers (May 2025). The median is the wage at which half of workers earned more and half earned less. See the OOH pay tab and the OEWS data for your area. Our guide to researching pay explains how to read the figures.
Job outlook
BLS projects employment of computer and information systems managers to grow 16 percent from 2025 to 2035, which BLS labels much faster than average. For comparison, BLS projects 3 percent growth for all occupations over the same period. About 53,500 openings are projected each year on average. BLS says most openings come from replacing workers who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force, for example to retire.
How to get hired
- Show leadership of projects and teams on your resume, not only technical work.
- Show results on your resume: the tools you used, the volume you handled and the outcomes, without private customer or employer details.
- If you lack experience, see the no-experience resume guide.
- Practice with the interview prep hub.
When you are ready, search jobs on LiveRec.
Related occupations
Computer network architects, Database administrators, Network and computer systems administrators, Software developers, Cybersecurity analysts.
Frequently asked questions
How much experience do IT managers need? BLS lists 5 years or more of related experience, usually in a related IT job, along with a bachelor's degree.
Is IT management a growing career? BLS projects 16 percent growth from 2025 to 2035, much faster than average, with about 53,500 openings per year.
How much do computer and information systems managers make? BLS reports a median annual wage of $175,140 for computer and information systems managers (May 2025). Half of workers earned more and half earned less. Pay varies by employer, region and experience.
Is it manager a good career? BLS projects 16 percent growth from 2025 to 2035 (much faster than average). About 53,500 openings are projected each year. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, so read the duties and work environment above.
Related guides
- What Does a Network Architect Do? Duties, Pay, Outlook
- What Does a Database Administrator Do? Pay and Outlook
- What Does a Network Administrator Do? Pay and Outlook
- What Does a Software Developer Do? Duties, Pay, Outlook
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Computer and information systems managers: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm (accessed 31 October 2026)
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/oes/ (accessed 31 October 2026)
- O*NET OnLine, 11-3021.00: https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/11-3021.00 (accessed 31 October 2026)
This is general information, not legal, tax or immigration advice. Rules change and your situation may differ. Consult a licensed attorney or qualified adviser.