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What is an information technology systems manager and how to become one

Updated January 8, 2025
4 min read
Quoted Expert
Dr. Ariful Azad Ph.D.
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An information technology systems manager is tasked with overseeing, implementing, and maintaining a company's IT needs. He/She ensures the security and proper operation of all company's computer systems, related applications, hardware, and software. He/She decides the installation and upgrade needs of the electronic devices used in the workplace. Additionally, he/she oversees the annual IT budget and manages the IT staff. Also, he/she ensures all IT tasks are conducted within the parameters of applicable laws, codes, and regulations.

For this role, applicants are typically required to hold a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, software engineering, or a related field. You must have proven experience in a related field. The skillset required for this position includes time management, multitasking, leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, you must be proficient in computer hardware, wireless technology applications, and IT security.

These experts earn an average annual salary of $117,743, which ranges from $66,000 to $210,000.

What general advice would you give to an Information Technology Systems Manager?

Dr. Ariful Azad Ph.D.

Director of Graduate Studies for the Dept. of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Assistant Professor of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University Bloomington

Look for a job that you would enjoy doing, even if it takes some time to find such a position. Internships are great to explore various options.
ScoreInformation Technology Systems ManagerUS Average
Salary
8.4

Avg. Salary $130,526

Avg. Salary $59,228

Stability Level
8.6

Growth Rate 16%

Growth Rate 0.3%

Diversity
1.7
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 0.21%

Asian 12.62%

Black or African American 6.75%

Hispanic or Latino 10.13%

Unknown 5.21%

White 65.09%

Gender

female 13.49%

male 86.51%

Age - 47
Race

American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%

Asian 7.00%

Black or African American 14.00%

Hispanic or Latino 19.00%

White 57.00%

Gender

female 47.00%

male 53.00%

Age - 47
Stress Level
8.6

Stress level is very high

7.1 - high

Complexity Level
8.7

Complexity Level is advanced

7 - challenging

Work Life Balance
6.1

Work Life balance is fair

6.4 - fair

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Information Technology Systems Manager career paths

Key steps to become an information technology systems manager

  1. Explore information technology systems manager education requirements

    Most common information technology systems manager degrees

    Bachelor's

    63.8 %

    Associate

    18.3 %

    Master's

    11.3 %
  2. Start to develop specific information technology systems manager skills

    SkillsPercentages
    Customer Service7.98%
    Project Management7.83%
    Network Infrastructure4.12%
    SAN3.51%
    SQL Server3.36%
  3. Complete relevant information technology systems manager training and internships

    Accountants spend an average of 6-12 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New information technology systems managers learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as an information technology systems manager based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real information technology systems manager resumes.
  4. Gain additional information technology systems manager certifications

    Information technology systems manager certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific information technology systems manager certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.

    The most common certifications for information technology systems managers include IT Information Library Foundations Certification (ITIL) and Project Management Professional (PMP).

    More About Certifications
  5. Research information technology systems manager duties and responsibilities

    • Manage VMware on several systems for compatibility with older applications as well as new systems.
    • Manage the HP-UX deployment of thousands of users worldwide, resolve any OS integration incompatibilities.
    • Lead the implementation, management, and support of the company's first POS application.
    • Manage a significant capital and expense budget for the UNIX server infrastructure and negotiate contracts with hardware and software vendors.
  6. Prepare your information technology systems manager resume

    When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your information technology systems manager resume.

    You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on an information technology systems manager resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.

    Choose From 10+ Customizable Information Technology Systems Manager Resume templates

    Build a professional Information Technology Systems Manager resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your Information Technology Systems Manager resume.
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    Information Technology Systems Manager Resume
    Information Technology Systems Manager Resume
  7. Apply for information technology systems manager jobs

    Now it's time to start searching for an information technology systems manager job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:

    1. Browse job boards for relevant postings
    2. Consult your professional network
    3. Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
    4. Watch out for job scams

How Did You Land Your First Information Technology Systems Manager Job

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Average information technology systems manager salary

The average Information Technology Systems Manager salary in the United States is $130,526 per year or $63 per hour. Information technology systems manager salaries range between $95,000 and $178,000 per year.

Average Information Technology Systems Manager Salary
$130,526 Yearly
$62.75 hourly

What Am I Worth?

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How do information technology systems managers rate their job?

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Information Technology Systems Manager reviews

profile
A zippia user wrote a review on Sep 2023
Pros

Staying abreast of technology and helping an organization define Technology strategy.

Cons

Work Life Balance can be difficult based on size of team and infrastructure.


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A zippia user wrote a review on Sep 2019
Pros

The opportunity to render services to client, and managing technology by giving key information to customers.

Cons

Not meeting up to expectation of a client.


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A zippia user wrote a review on May 2019
Pros

Opportunities to be involved on the forefront of technology.


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Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Research Team
Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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