An IBM executive states that this job is consistently in high demand and can offer compensation of over $100,000 without a degree.

An IBM executive states that this job is consistently in high demand and can offer compensation of over $100,000 without a degree.
An IBM executive states that this job is consistently in high demand and can offer compensation of over $100,000 without a degree.

A six-figure job can be obtained without a bachelor's degree or a comprehensive resume.

Despite some businesses cutting back on hiring due to inflation, interest rates, and other challenges, one high-paying role remains consistently in demand, according to an IBM executive: project manager.

"Project managers are essential in various industries, including tech, retail, marketing, and many others, according to IBM's vice president of global education and workforce development, Lydia Logan. They work with various departments within a business, such as finance, tech, and legal."

A project manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and managing the completion of a project, ensuring it is finished on schedule and within budget.

Projects can range from building construction to marketing campaigns.

Project managers are in high demand across all industries due to the rapid advancement of technology and lingering disruptions from the pandemic, according to Logan.

The Project Management Institute predicts that by 2030, at least 25 million individuals will be required in project management roles. This implies that approximately two million individuals must enter the field annually to meet the increasing demand.

In the next decade, the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that project management jobs will increase at a faster rate than the average for all occupations, with a projected growth of 6%.

How to land a job in project management

At least a high school diploma or GED and the completion of a certification course or training are typically required for most project management jobs.

Online project management certificate programs are available from several schools, including the University of Pennsylvania and Cornell University, as well as companies like Google and IBM. Some of these courses are free, while others require an enrollment fee.

Comfortable problem solving, delegating tasks, and leading a team are essential skills for project managers, who must juggle various components such as scheduling, budgeting, and payroll.

As Logan explains, working in this role requires adaptability and effective communication to convey project goals and each team member's role in achieving them.

The most crucial step to securing a project management role is to highlight your skills and certifications prominently on your resume, according to her.

Six-figure salaries and opportunities to work from home

The Project Management Institute reports that there is a particularly urgent need for project managers in financial services, health care, and technology industries.

Recent Glassdoor research shows that companies such as IBM, Amazon, and JP Morgan Chase & Co. are among the top companies hiring for project managers.

The median salary for project managers in the U.S. has increased from approximately $87,000 a decade ago to $102,682 per year, according to ZipRecruiter, as demand for these professionals continues to rise.

Numerous high-paying remote project management jobs are available on the market, with some offering salaries of over $200,000 per year.

According to Logan, project management is a thriving field with numerous growth prospects. It's ideal for individuals who possess a natural curiosity, a collaborative mindset, and a passion for leading teams.

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