all about project coordinator jobs
When your company has complex projects that must be managed, as a project coordinator, it's up to you to ensure that all components of the job come together smoothly. There will always be a need for leaders who are able to efficiently manage people and resources. For this reason, project coordinator jobs are unlikely to disappear anytime soon.
In order to become a tech project coordinator, you must excel at balancing teams, projects, and schedules. You are an excellent communicator who keeps your entire team on task and provides status reports to higher ups.
what project coordinator jobs entail
As a project coordinator, you work regular hours as a full-time employee. Project coordinators can work in a variety of industries, though technology and business are the most common. You will likely work in an office and manage or work closely with the IT or tech department, though you may interact with or manage people in other departments depending on the requirements of the projects you are handling.
average project coordinator salaries
Project coordinator salaries range from about $45,000 to $85,000 depending on your level of experience and location. Senior project coordinators with 5+ years of experience can expect to make in the mid to high range, while more junior project coordinators with a year of experience can expect a salary on the low end of this range.
Salaries are fairly consistent throughout Canada, though major city centres will have more project coordinator roles. A notable exception is Calgary, where project coordinator roles have a slightly higher than average salary.
your day to day tasks
As a project coordinator in the tech industry, a typical workday might include tasks such as:
- managing teams across groups or departments
- ensuring projects are implemented smoothly
- scheduling meetings and communication
- coordinating materials and resources if necessary
- producing reports, updates and project documentation
where you can work
Project coordinators are needed in a variety of different organizations both within the tech sector and in general business. Most large organizations have an IT department that requires coordination to run smoothly. As such, project coordinator jobs are commonly posted throughout Canada.
You will find opportunities in both the public and private sectors, in diverse industries such as technology, government, sales, finance, marketing and many others. As a project coordinator, it's up to you to decide which industries best fit your needs and career goals, as there are project coordinator jobs to be found just about anywhere!
what you bring to the table
To succeed as a project coordinator you must be an excellent communicator. You know how to distribute people and resources efficiently, to ensure project deadlines are met if not exceeded. Some useful skills that you call upon throughout your workday may include:
- deep understanding of technology
- high-level organization
- time-management skills and ability to prioritize
- interpersonal and communication skills
- planning skills
- critical thinking
- efficient decision-making
- ability to collaborate
training and certifications
As an IT project coordinator, you probably have a background in computer science or other IT certifications. You may also have some background in business. The specific academic background required for your project coordinator job will vary depending on the industry you work in.
Proven experience and prior success with project completion and people management is an invaluable asset. Some colleges offer project coordinator credits and certifications that will help set you apart when seeking employment.
where your career is headed
As a project coordinator, you can expect to earn more money over time as your experience increases. Many project coordinators with proven track records choose to offer their services as consultants. You can charge a set fee, or per hour rate. It's also possible to advance into project management roles with further certifications such as a PMP certification or an MBA.