What does an engineering manager do?

What does an engineering manager do? 

Software influences the whole workflow of a company. Software developers are needed to maintain, administer and develop the software. An engineering manager rises from the mass of software developers. Their activity is not primarily coding, but rather the development of complex IT software. Engineering managers shape progress and set trends in the company, with the aspects of a manager job.

The job profile of an engineering manager could be described as follows:

As an engineering manager, you will develop and construct the architecture of a piece of software and develop it further. This goes hand-in-hand with pinpoint accuracy, design aspects and the process analysis of the company. Software must be modelled to fit the company vision and be compatible across locations and sectors. 

What are the tasks of an engineering manager? 

An engineering manager is responsible for the construction and development of software in terms of concept, design and content. An engineering manager's tasks range from analytical and process-related fields of activity to leadership of a team.

A distinction must be made between engineering managers who further develop existing software and adapt it to the latest standards and those who design the entire software manually. The field of activity is large and varied, but includes a great deal of responsibility as leadership roles are also taken on.

What are the tasks of an engineering manager? 

• System conceptualisation 
• Software modelling 
• Implementation of the software in cloud systems 
• Monitoring of development processes 
• Project management and leadership of software developers 
• Observance of compliance guidelines and conceptual limits 
• Programming and coding of the software structure 
• Installation and maintenance of processes 
• Budgeting of the resources available for the software 
• Automation of individual components of the software 
• Process standardisation

You are the interface between management and the software developers and as such you are responsible for the success of the project. Leadership skills, analytical thinking, an increased ability to think abstractly and creativity are skills that you need for this job. Good time management and good communication skills are also beneficial.

Help shape visions in different sectors 

Engineering managers can work in a wide range of sectors. Engineering managers can work on a project basis or as a permanent part of a team and help shape the future.

Engineering managers are highly sought-after. Only a few qualify for engineering jobs, as the profession is protected by a certified degree in (IT) engineering or a similar course of study. Whether you are keen on start-up structures or want to shape corporate company processes, the options are open: 

• Chemistry industry 
• IT industry 
• Pharmaceuticals industry 
• Product sales 
• Mechanical engineering