Roles in project management are among the most well-paying in any industry due to the various challenges they encounter during the life cycle of a project. Senior project managers are those who have extensive experience in this role and are among its highest paid, with salaries well above the median range.
In simple terms, a project is any set of related tasks that have to be carried out by a team, in the allotted time, and providing the anticipated results. However, it can only be successful if it is managed and lead effectively by an experienced professional. And when it comes to overseeing one, the role of a senior project manager is considered extremely crucial. These are the professionals who have a few successfully completed projects under their belt, and are expected to possess a wide range of skills. They also act as mentors to executives entering into this domain. Since they are the upper-middle managers of the company, they get paid very well.
Salary Range
Listed here are the salary ranges with respect to professionals employed in the information technology (IT) and operations industries. These figures may vary according to the experience, location, employer, and educational qualifications.
Information Technology
| Years of Experience | Median Pay Scale |
| 1 – 4 Years | USD 65,000 to USD 96,000 |
| 5 – 9 Years | USD 79,000 to USD 103,500 |
| 10 – 19 Years | USD 91,000 to USD 120,000 |
| Over 20 Years | USD 96,500 to USD 123,000 |
| State of Employment | Median Pay Scale |
| New York | USD 98,000 to USD 135,000 |
| California | USD 97,000 to USD 127,000 |
| Illinois | USD 91,500 to USD 120,000 |
| Pennsylvania | USD 87,000 to USD 116,500 |
| City of Employment | Median Pay Scale |
| New York City | USD 101,500 to USD 141,000 |
| Washington | USD 101,000 to USD 133,500 |
| San Francisco | USD 100,000 to USD 131,500 |
| Boston | USD 92,000 to USD 116,500 |
Operations
| Years of Experience | Median Pay Scale |
| 1 – 4 Years | USD 53,000 to USD 83,000 |
| 5 – 9 Years | USD 66,000 to USD 96,000 |
| 10 – 19 Years | USD 79,000 to USD 110,000 |
| Over 20 Years | USD 90,000 to USD 128,500 |
| State of Employment | Median Pay Scale |
| New York | USD 77,000 to USD 126,000 |
| California | USD 82,000 to USD 119,000 |
| Florida | USD 74,500 to USD 114,000 |
| North Carolina | USD 84,000 to USD 115,500 |
| City of Employment | Median Pay Scale |
| New York City | USD 80,500 to USD 131,000 |
| Houston | USD 92,000 to USD 125,000 |
| Los Angeles | USD 80,000 to USD 117,500 |
| Dallas | USD 78,000 to USD 107,000 |
In addition to all these factors, the salary may increase if an individual is certified or has undertaken additional training. The most popular project management trainings are the Project Management Professional (PMP), Project Management Certificate, PRINCE2, and Certified Six Sigma Black Belt.
Job Description
A senior project manager has to look after almost all aspects of the project. He has to make sure that it is being executed smoothly, is not delayed, and not by any means exceeding the allotted budget. He has to communicate all the project details with the team leader, and ensure that all team members are aware of their respective duties. This expert may handle multiple projects at the same time, which may add to his duties and obligations. He also has to communicate with the client regarding any modifications to the project requirements.