How Do I Become an Operations Project Manager?

An operations manager oversees all processes that enable an organization to run. When a professional has an operations project manager position, he or she performs duties specific to a particular project. For example, he or she might keep a project's budget, perform equipment inspections, recruit project team members, and negotiate leases and supplier contracts. To become an operations project manager, you can benefit from courses in finance, economics, and management.

Most people should earn degrees relevant specifically to fields in which they prefer to work; it is common for employers to require this credential. To become an operations project manager for a software design company, for example, you need to learn computer programming. Ideally, this kind of professional would also learn principles of business finance and software development.

While a graduate degree might not be necessary for a person who would like to become an operations project manager, it might help to set him or her apart from other job candidates. In many cases, however, years of valuable experience are considered equivalent to graduate degrees. Research job descriptions for operation project manager openings in your field to learn if a graduate degree is essential.

Any individuals who would like to become an operations project manager should first plan on working for a number of years in his or her industry. It is especially helpful to learn a variety of skills in different departments. Operations project managers tend to perform duties that pertain to management, information technology (IT), finance, and human resources. With each new experience or skill you acquire, update your resume to reflect your qualifications.

For some people, the best way to become an operations project manager is to stay with one organization for as long as possible. With each promotion you earn, you learn new skills and take on new responsibilities. Begin applying for promotions as soon as you are qualified, this way you can let your managers know that you are interested in a long term career.

To become an operations project manager, it is important that you strive for positions that you are interested in. For example, if you are predominantly an IT professional who develops network architecture for your company, don't apply for an operations project manager position for a financial project. If a position requires an individual who can design an IT system for a financial project, on the other hand, you might be qualified. These positions are highly competitive, so if you are not successful the first few times you apply, continue to improve your resume.