IT Manager: Role Overview, Responsibilities & 2025 Salary Data
IT Managers lead technology strategy, infrastructure, and support for AEC firms. They manage networks, servers, software systems, cybersecurity, and ensure reliable technology that enables design and project delivery.
What Does a IT Manager Do?
IT Managers lead technology strategy, infrastructure, and support for AEC firms. They manage networks, servers, software systems, cybersecurity, and ensure reliable technology that enables design and project delivery.
What Does a IT Manager Responsible For?
- Manage IT infrastructure, networks, and servers
- Oversee cybersecurity and data protection
- Support CAD, BIM, and design software systems
- Manage help desk and user support
- Coordinate software licensing and vendor relationships
- Plan and execute technology upgrades and projects
- Ensure backup and disaster recovery readiness
- Manage IT budget and vendor contracts
IT Manager Qualifications & Requirements
Technical Skills
- •Windows Server and Active Directory
- •Network administration (TCP/IP, VPN, firewalls)
- •Cybersecurity and endpoint protection
- •Cloud platforms (Azure, AWS, Microsoft 365)
- •Backup and disaster recovery
- •CAD/BIM software support (AutoCAD, Revit)
- •Help desk and ticketing systems
- •Virtualization (VMware, Hyper-V)
Professional Competencies
- •Leadership and team management
- •Problem-solving and troubleshooting
- •Communication with non-technical users
- •Project management
- •Strategic thinking
- •Customer service orientation
- •Adaptability
Education & Certifications
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or related field preferred
Certifications:
CompTIA Network+, Security+, MCSE, CCNA, or similar preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- +5-10 years of IT experience with progressive responsibilities
- +Experience in AEC or professional services environment
- +Knowledge of CAD/BIM software infrastructure
- +Leadership or management experience
IT Manager Market Outlook
Growing Role and Responsibilities
IT Managers can advance to Director of IT, CTO, or COO roles in AEC firms. Many also transition to consulting or managed service providers.
Typical Career Progression:
Sample Job Description Templates
IT Manager
Position Overview
Lead IT operations for our architecture and engineering firm. Manage technology infrastructure, support design software, and ensure reliable systems for our creative teams.
Key Responsibilities
- •Manage IT infrastructure, networks, and servers
- •Oversee cybersecurity and data protection
- •Support CAD, BIM, and design software (AutoCAD, Revit, etc.)
- •Lead help desk and user support team
- •Manage software licensing and vendor relationships
- •Plan technology upgrades and projects
- •Ensure backup and disaster recovery
Requirements
- •Bachelor's degree in IT or Computer Science preferred
- •7-10 years of IT experience
- •3+ years in management or leadership role
- •Strong Windows Server, networking, and security knowledge
- •Experience with CAD/BIM software infrastructure
- •CompTIA, Microsoft, or Cisco certifications preferred
- •AEC industry experience highly valued
IT Manager Salary Ranges (2025)
$95,000
Entry Level: $70K – $85K
Mid Level: $85K – $110K
Senior Level: $110K – $140K+
Salaries vary by experience, location, company size, and specialization.
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