Project Coordinator vs. Project Manager

Once all stages and timelines of a project have been outlined and approved, the project coordinator helps keep all parts of the process organized and running according to plan.

A project manager is responsible for planning, initiating, and overseeing the execution of all elements of a project. They often work with multiple internal teams, contractors, and clients.

They are involved in discussions with clients and upper management to ensure they have a clear understanding of goals and outcomes. They then determine the resources, processes, and other materials needed to complete the project within the desired timeline and budget.

There is overlap in the duties of the project coordinator and project manager. However, there are significant differences between the two including education and scope of work.

Here are the key differences between a project coordinator and a project manager:

• A project coordinator requires a Bachelor's degree

• A project manager requires a Bachelor's degree and in most cases a certification from the Project Management Institute

• A project coordinator takes care of the daily tasks needed to keep a project running smoothly

• A project manager looks at the big picture needs of a project

• Project coordinators average $47,000 per year

• Project managers average $81,000 per year