What Is a Programming Manager and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

The duties of a programming manager vary significantly depending on the industry in which they work. For example, a programming manager who works for a museum or conference center plans the schedule of events and content for conventions, group visits, recreation, and educational initiatives. A programming manager in the music or TV industry plans content such as event coverage based on broadcast length, time available, and community needs in collaboration with other professionals who prepare the programming schedule. An IT programming manager has more project management responsibilities with a broader scope, including directing multiple application projects and initiatives from a high-level perspective.

To pursue a career as a programming manager, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in a subject related to your industry, such as event planning, marketing, communications, music technology, film and TV production, information technology, or computer science. You also need experience in your field, ranging from a couple of years to several years in relevant positions. Other qualifications include excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills, as well as the ability to manage multiple projects or priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Statistical programming most often refers to a software program written in a statistical program or code that can analyze statistical data for a company or organization without statisticians having to do all of the work and findings by hand. In educational settings, SPSS is a statistical program often used to discern results from studies done by students and faculty. Other statistical programs also exist. Statistical programming managers, therefore work to ensure that all statistical programs are working correctly and are performing in such a way that they work toward the goals of the company or organization, not in findings, but in regards to accuracy.

As an applications and systems programming manager, your responsibilities include managing applications and databases, supervision of programming staff, and general knowledge of all applications. Your qualifications include knowledge of computer applications and systems that the company works in regularly, communication skills, and typically at least a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Businesses often use several programs that must work together simultaneously to ensure proper flow and efficiency, so as an applications and systems programming manager, you must not only ensure those applications are working together seamlessly, you must also monitor conceptualization of new applications and systems by project managers within the department.