Computer and Information Systems Managers

Computer and information systems managers, often called information technology (IT) managers, plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities in an organization. They help determine the IT goals of an organization and are responsible for implementing computer systems to meet those goals.

Duties

Computer and information systems managers typically do the following:

• Analyze their organization’s IT needs and recommend possible upgrades
• Plan and direct the installation and maintenance of computer hardware and software
• Establish and maintain processes to detect, prevent, and mitigate IT security threats
• Assess the costs and benefits of new projects and justify funding for projects
• Determine personnel needs for their department
• Plan and direct the work of other IT staff, including computer systems analysts, software developers, information security analysts, and computer support specialists
• Negotiate with and monitor vendors to ensure high-quality performance for the organization’s IT needs

Job tasks for computer and information systems managers vary, and the specific duties of each may be determined by the size and structure of their organization. Some oversee an organization’s entire IT department; others are responsible for a particular area of IT, such as infrastructure, support services, or cybersecurity.

Computer and information systems managers may work closely with top executives and other managers to assess computer and information system needs. In addition, they must stay current on new technology. Their knowledge and expertise inform their purchasing, installation, and upgrade recommendations or decisions for the organization.

These managers may have other titles, such as chief information officer (CIO), chief technology officer (CTO), or management information systems (MIS) director. As with job tasks, job titles may vary by organization size and structure.

Computer and information systems managers held about 667,100 jobs in 2024. The largest employers of computer and information systems managers were as follows:

Computer and information systems managers are employed in many different industries. They usually work in an office setting.

Work Schedules

Most computer and information systems managers work full time, and some work more than 40 hours per week.

To enter the occupation, computer and information systems managers typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology, along with related work experience. Some employers require or prefer that candidates have a graduate degree.

The median annual wage for computer and information systems managers was $171,200 in May 2024.

Employment of computer and information systems managers is projected to grow 15 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 55,600 openings for computer and information systems managers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.