IT project manager, system development

What does an IT project manager in system development do? – Tasks and work environment

An IT project manager in system development is responsible for leading and coordinating software and IT system development projects. Tasks include planning projects, setting goals, allocating tasks, and ensuring delivery on time and within budget. The role requires close collaboration with development teams, clients, and other stakeholders to identify needs, solve problems, and manage changes during the project. The work environment is usually office-based, but remote work is common. Projects are often complex and require high levels of structure, communication, and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Lönutveckling över tid

The salary for IT project managers in system development has shown stable and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 50,700 SEK per month, increasing to 52 800 SEK in 2023 and further to 54 900 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.3% over three years. This salary development reflects the high demand for competent project managers in system development, driven by digitalization and technological advancement. The market is characterized by recruitment difficulties, which also contribute to salary increases. Gender differences remain, but the trend has been positive for both women and men.

IT project manager in system development salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 54 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 40,000 SEK/month (female, public sector, pre-university education)
• Highest salary: 61,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, doctoral degree)
• Average salary men: 55 600 SEK/month
• Average salary women: 52 700 SEK/month
• Women earn: 95% of men's salary
• Hourly wage: 330 SEK

Education and qualifications

To work as an IT project manager in system development, a university degree in data/IT or systems science is usually required. In addition to formal education, experience in project management, understanding of software development, and certifications in project methodology are highly valued. Many employers prefer candidates with both technical background and experience leading teams in IT projects. Internships, trainee programs, and further education can be important steps to build relevant skills.

• Formal education: Bachelor's or master's degree in data/IT (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Examples include PMP, PRINCE2, Scrum Master
• Internship/trainee: Experience from development projects is recommended
• Pre-knowledge: Basic programming and system understanding
• Further education: Courses in leadership and project management

Common benefits and compensation

Common benefits for IT project managers in system development include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexible working hours, and remote work options. Additional compensation may include bonus schemes, skill development, and insurance. Many employers also offer extra vacation days and subsidized lunches.

Competition and challenges

The competition for qualified IT project managers in system development remains high, primarily due to rapid technological advancement and increasing digitalization demands. The recruitment situation is characterized by difficulties in finding candidates with the right combination of technical knowledge and leadership skills. There are also high expectations for quickly familiarizing oneself with new technologies and work processes. Additionally, many leave the profession for other roles within the IT industry, further intensifying the competition for experienced project managers. Staying updated and continuing education are therefore crucial to remain attractive in the job market.

Tips for aspiring IT project managers in system development

To succeed as an IT project manager in system development, it is beneficial to combine technical understanding with a structured working approach. Good communication and listening skills facilitate collaboration with developers and clients, while analytical ability helps solve problems and make well-founded decisions. Flexibility is vital as projects often change rapidly and unexpected challenges arise. Gaining early experience in project work, such as through internships or smaller projects, helps build leadership skills. Continuing education in project methodology and IT technology increases career advancement opportunities. Finally, being solution-oriented and motivating your team toward common goals is essential.

Key facts about IT project managers in system development

• Educational level: Bachelor's or master's degree in data/IT
• Work environment: Office-based, often with remote work options
• Demand: Very high, with 179 job openings in the profession
• Typical work form: Project-based teamwork
• Special skills: Project methodology, leadership, and system development understanding

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an IT project manager in system development, opportunities open up to advance to more senior roles such as program manager, IT director, or consultant within business development. Some choose to specialize in agile methods or transition into consulting, working on broader organizational development. The employment forecast from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicates excellent job prospects in software and system development, expected to remain stable over the next five years. The market still faces recruitment challenges, meaning competition for experienced project managers continues. The ongoing digitalization ensures long-term demand for leaders with both technical and organizational skills.

Frequently asked questions about IT project managers in system development

• What does an IT project manager in system development earn?
  - The average salary is 54 900 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become an IT project manager in system development?
  - Typically, a university degree in data/IT and certifications in project management are required.
• Are there gender differences in salary for IT project managers in system development?
  - Yes, women earn 95% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the job market like for IT project managers in system development?
  - Demand is very high, with 179 job openings in the profession.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexibility, and remote work options are common.
• What is the highest salary for IT project managers in system development?
  - The highest salary is 61,600 SEK per month, applicable to a private sector male with a doctoral degree.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Opportunities include progressing to program manager, IT director, or business development consultant.