Operations Manager, IT

What does an IT Operations Manager do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An IT operations manager is responsible for monitoring, leading, and optimizing the daily operation of IT systems, networks, and infrastructure. The role often involves coordinating technical teams, managing incidents, and ensuring that the organization's IT environment functions reliably and securely around the clock. The operations manager works closely with both technicians and business managers to identify areas for improvement, implement new routines, and ensure compliance with service agreements and service level agreements. The work environment is usually office-based but may occasionally require work outside regular hours during major incidents or planned system updates.

Salary development over time

IT operations managers have experienced a clear salary increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 38,500 SEK per month, which increased to 40 600 SEK in 2023, and has now risen to 42 400 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a salary increase of approximately 10% over the period, with the largest growth between 2022 and 2023. The positive trend can be explained by increased digitalization in society, higher demands for operational reliability, and growing complexity in IT environments. Despite the current job market showing some oversupply of operations technicians, skilled operations managers continue to be in demand, especially in larger organizations and within critical infrastructure.

IT Operations Manager Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 42 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,300 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, secondary education)
• Highest salary: 50,500 SEK/month (male, private sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Hourly wage (average): 255 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 97% of what men do (women: 41 200 SEK, men: 42 600 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on location and sector, with higher salaries in metropolitan areas and within the private sector.

Education and Qualifications

To work as an IT operations manager, a post-secondary education in IT, computer engineering, or systems science is usually required, often lasting at least three years. Practical experience in operations work and understanding of networks, servers, and security are highly meritorious. Certifications in relevant technologies and systems may be required by some employers, and leadership experience is often desirable.

• Formal education: University or YH education in IT/systems science (3 years or more)
• Certifications: Examples include ITIL, Microsoft, Cisco, Linux
• Internship/Trainee: Practical experience from operations technician or support roles is common
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of networks, operating systems, and security
• Tips for choosing: Look for programs with elements of project management and leadership

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for IT operations managers include wellness allowances, pension schemes, remote work options, and flexible working hours. Continuing education, conferences, certification support, and compensation for on-call duties outside office hours are also typical. Some employers offer company cars, extra vacation days, or performance-based bonuses.

Competition and challenges

The competition for IT operations manager positions has increased, especially since the profession is part of a broad occupational group characterized by a surplus of candidates nationally. The Employment Service's forecast indicates limited opportunities for work in the coming years, with demand expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Challenges often include staying updated with rapidly evolving technologies and managing complex system landscapes where disruptions can have significant consequences. To stand out, a combination of deep technical expertise and leadership and communication skills is essential.

Tips for aspiring IT Operations Managers

To succeed as an IT operations manager, it is beneficial to combine technical curiosity with strong analytical skills and an interest in problem-solving. Being communicative and able to explain technical issues clearly to different parts of the organization is a great asset. Building experience from support or operations technician roles provides a solid foundation and insight into daily challenges. Leadership and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure are crucial, so take initiatives in projects to practice these skills. Continuously updating your knowledge and staying current with new technologies increases chances for advancement. Flexibility and resilience are important qualities, especially when handling incidents and organizational changes. Finally, networking within the industry and being open to new work arrangements, such as remote work or consulting assignments, is advisable.

Key facts about IT Operations Managers

• Education level: Post-secondary education (3 years or more recommended)
• Work environment: Office environment with elements of remote work and on-call duties
• Demand: Limited opportunities nationwide, according to the Employment Service
• Occupational group: Operations technician, IT (179 job openings currently)
• Special skills: Networks, system operations, security, and leadership

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an IT operations manager, opportunities may open for advancement into roles such as IT Operations Director, IT Architect, or project manager for larger infrastructure projects. Some choose to specialize further in areas like cybersecurity or cloud services, while others move into consulting or management roles within IT. The Employment Service's forecast indicates limited short-term job opportunities for operations technicians and a steady demand over the next five years. Nonetheless, experienced operations managers remain in demand, especially in larger companies, public sector organizations, and entities with high operational reliability requirements. Those combining technical skills with leadership qualities are well-positioned for future challenges and career growth.

Frequently asked questions about IT Operations Managers

• What does an IT Operations Manager earn?
  - An IT operations manager earns an average of 42 400 SEK per month, but the salary can vary depending on experience, education level, sector, and region.
• What education is required to become an IT Operations Manager?
  - Usually, a post-secondary education in IT, systems science, or computer engineering is required, often at least three years, along with experience in operations work.
• What is the job market like for IT Operations Managers?
  - The job market is characterized by a surplus of candidates and limited opportunities nationwide, according to the Employment Service's forecast.
• Are there gender differences in salary for IT Operations Managers?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do in the profession (41 200 SEK for women, 42 600 SEK for men).
• What are the most common tasks for an IT Operations Manager?
  - Monitoring IT operations, incident management, leading technical teams, process optimization, and ensuring operational reliability.
• How wide is the salary range for IT Operations Managers?
  - The lowest salary is 35,300 SEK/month and the highest is 50,500 SEK/month, depending on sector, education, and experience.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years as an IT Operations Manager?
  - After a few years, one can advance to roles such as IT Operations Director, IT Architect, Project Manager, or specialist in security and cloud services.