Browse
Log in / Register
Share
A project management team is typically composed of seven distinct roles, ranging from strategic leadership to tactical execution. The specific structure depends on the organization's size and project complexity, with roles like Project Manager, Assistant Project Manager, and Project Coordinator forming a core hierarchy responsible for delivering projects on time and within budget.
Understanding the various roles within a project management team is crucial for both career planning and organizational efficiency. These roles are defined by their specific responsibilities and place within the team's hierarchy. In smaller companies, one person might wear multiple hats, while larger organizations often have dedicated individuals for each function. The core roles work together to apply skills, knowledge, and resources to achieve project objectives. The following breakdown outlines the key positions, their typical levels, and primary duties.
| Role | Level | Primary Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Project Manager | Mid-to-Senior | Overall project leadership, scope definition, and performance monitoring. |
| Assistant Project Manager | Mid-Level | Supports the Project Manager; handles delegated tasks and team coordination. |
| Senior Project Manager | Senior | Oversees multiple projects or other Project Managers; provides strategic guidance. |
| Team Leader | Junior-to-Mid | Acts as an intermediary between management and the project team; facilitates day-to-day work. |
| Project Coordinator | Junior | Focuses on administrative tasks, budgeting, and tracking project expenditures. |
| Project Scheduler | Junior | Develops and maintains project timelines, deadlines, and milestone schedules. |
| Resource Manager | Specialized | Allocates personnel and resources efficiently to meet project needs. |
The Project Manager (PM) is the central figure accountable for a project's success. This mid-to-senior level professional is tasked with defining the project's scope and objectives with input from stakeholders. Their day-to-day duties involve overseeing the project's progress, monitoring team performance, and mitigating risks. A key part of the project manager's role is conducting a post-project evaluation to assess outcomes against the initial goals. In larger teams, a PM may supervise junior staff like coordinators, while in smaller settings, they might be the sole project management professional.
Beneath the Project Manager, several support roles ensure smooth operations. An Assistant Project Manager reports directly to the PM, performing similar tasks to gain experience for a senior role. Project Coordinators often handle administrative and budgeting aspects, making it an ideal entry-level position. Project Schedulers specialize in creating timelines and deadlines, while Resource Managers focus on assigning the right people and tools to the project. A Team Leader, often a promoted team member, provides frontline leadership and decision-making within the team itself.
At a strategic level, the Senior Project Manager and the Steering Committee provide oversight. A Senior PM, an experienced employee, may manage other project managers or handle particularly complex projects. The Steering Committee, a group of high-level stakeholders and senior managers, offers strategic guidance, resolves major issues, and approves any changes to the project's scope. They typically communicate only with the Project or Senior Project Manager, who disseminates their decisions to the entire team.
To build a career in this field, start by targeting entry-level positions like Project Coordinator to develop essential skills. Effective project managers possess a blend of leadership, communication, and strong organizational abilities. Understanding this team structure is the first step toward navigating your own career path or building an effective team within your organization.
