How to Become an Engineering Manager

Engineering projects typically require multiple people to see an idea through to completion, with each individual bringing their own perspective and goals to the table. As a result, the key to success is creating a sense of unity, so the project can move forward efficiently.

Central to achieving this cohesion is the engineering manager, who uses engineering knowledge and leadership skills to guide projects from start to finish, balancing cost-effectiveness and quality. Those interested in turning an advanced engineering degree into a leadership career should learn how to become an engineering manager before taking the first step toward the profession.

What Does an Engineering Manager Do?

Before becoming an engineering manager, it’s vital to understand the role’s essential duties. Engineering managers oversee key elements of a project during development, including team members, resources, and tasks that advance the project.

Their responsibilities can shift depending on the stage of the project. Early on, they may determine the size and budget with clients and assemble a diverse team with the right skills. As the project progresses, they set goals to motivate team members, resolve conflicts, promote collaboration, and keep clients informed about project status.

In addition to these day-to-day duties, engineering managers play a strategic role by aligning projects with organizational goals, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and fostering innovation within their teams. Strong interpersonal skills such as emotional intelligence, clear decision-making, and cross-department collaboration are often just as important as technical expertise.

Engineering managers commonly work in manufacturing or architectural work settings. Other potential environments include management companies, scientific research organizations, and government agencies. Beyond these, many engineering managers work in fast-growing areas such as software development, renewable energy, and construction management.

Steps to Becoming an Engineering Manager

Effective management is often the difference between whether a project succeeds or misses deadlines or goes over budget. Because of this, the steps to becoming an engineering manager are typically deliberate and well defined.

Educational Steps

A bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement for most engineering manager roles, usually in engineering or architecture. However, pursuing a graduate degree can deepen an individual’s knowledge and skill set, opening the door to greater opportunities, as some employers prefer candidates with advanced education.

A master’s degree in engineering management is a common advanced degree option for aspiring engineering managers, as it provides a more focused education than a general business administration degree. A master’s degree in engineering management emphasizes technical leadership, systems thinking, and operations, while a business degree provides a broader foundation in areas such as finance, marketing, and strategy.

Some universities offer online or part-time formats for master’s degree programs, making advanced study more accessible for working engineers who want to pursue leadership roles without pausing their careers.

Gaining Experience

There are many ways to gain work experience and turn knowledge into actionable skills, such as through internships, mentorships, and joining engineering clubs. These opportunities can lead to entry-level roles that build the foundation for a future management position, ultimately including director of engineering.

Work experience also helps develop the core competencies needed for success in the engineering field. These include technical skills such as math and analysis, as well as communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills for managing teams and guiding projects.

Career progression often flows from individual contributor to team lead to project manager and eventually to engineering management. Joining professional associations such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) or the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) can also provide valuable networking and leadership opportunities.

Licensure and Certification

Engineering managers don’t need to be licensed for engineering management, but they may need to be licensed depending on their role and state requirements. Requirements vary, so it’s important to review state guidelines before pursuing licensure. Many individuals choose to pursue a professional engineering (PE) license, which demonstrates advanced engineering expertise.

In addition to licensure, some individuals earn engineering manager certification to strengthen their credentials. Options include programs from the American Society for Engineering Management (ASEM).

Engineering Manager Salary and Job Growth

Becoming an engineering manager can offer strong earning potential. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for an architectural or engineering manager was $167,740 in 2024. Actual salaries may vary based on factors such as education, experience, and location.

The job outlook for architectural and engineering managers is also steady. The BLS projects 4% growth for this role between 2024 and 2034, on par with the average for all occupations.

Build a Bright Future as an Engineering Manager

Engineering management isn’t just a fulfilling career — it’s essential to helping society progress. By learning how to become an engineering manager, individuals can build the skills needed to lead projects that shape communities. Having an impact at this level can make the role uniquely satisfying.

The Master of Science in Engineering Management program from Tseng College at California State University, Northridge, can help you develop the tools to manage vital engineering projects effectively. The 100% online program offers a general degree option and a data analytics option, allowing you to focus your skills on key management areas.

Learn how Tseng College can help you forge your own leadership path.