Architectural and Engineering Managers
Architectural and engineering managers plan, direct, and coordinate activities in the fields of architecture and engineering.
Is architectural and engineering managers a good career?
It scores 38/100 and ranks #78 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Pays well above the U.S. median wage ($171,270 vs $61,390)
Possible tradeoffs
- Typically requires a bachelor's degree
- Often needs prior experience (5 years or more)
What architectural and engineering managers earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. architectural and engineering managers earn between $139,360 and $212,500 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Strongest employment concentration
Live architectural and engineering managers jobs
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- Typical education
- Bachelor's degree
- Work experience
- 5 years or more
- On-the-job training
- None
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow as fast as average through 2034.
Education
Architectural and engineering managers typically need at least a bachelor's degree in engineering or architecture.
Bachelor’s degree programs in architecture and engineering usually include coursework in mathematics and physical sciences. In addition, architecture programs may include courses such as architectural history and theory, computer-aided design and drafting (CADD), and construction methods; these programs take about 5 years to complete. Engineering programs vary by concentration and often take about 4 years of classroom, laboratory, and field studies in engineering principles and systems.
Architectural and engineering managers or prospective managers may complete a master’s degree in engineering management (MEM or MsEM), technology management (MSTM), or business administration (MBA). Some earn their master’s degree before entering a management position; others earn it while working as a manager. Typically, those who prefer to manage in technical areas pursue an MsEM or MSTM, and those interested in general management skills earn an MBA.
Engineering and technology management programs include courses such as accounting, marketing, and finance that focus on the particular field. Programs in engineering management also include coursework in supply chain management and product development. Programs in technology management include courses in information security and systems development.
Licenses, certifications & registrations
Architectural and engineering managers typically do not need a license. However, these managers may advance from other occupations that do require licensure. For example, all states require architects to be licensed, and some engineers obtain a professional engineering (PE) license. Contact your state licensing board
Some managers choose to earn certification.
Important qualities
Analytical skills. Architectural and engineering managers evaluate information to solve problems.
Communication skills. Architectural and engineering managers must effectively convey information and expectations related to projects.
Interpersonal skills. Architectural and engineering managers must be able to collaborate with other staff to meet deadlines and achieve goals.
Leadership skills. Architectural and engineering managers lead teams, which requires an ability to organize, direct, and motivate others.
Math skills. Architectural and engineering managers use calculus and other mathematics to develop new products and processes.
Organizational skills. Architectural and engineering managers keep track of many workers, schedules, and budgets simultaneously.
Related occupations
How much do architectural and engineering managers make?
The national median wage is $171,270 a year, with the middle half earning between $139,360 and $212,500 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is architectural and engineering managers a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 38 of 100 and ranks #78 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change +3.8% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a architectural and engineering manager?
The typical entry-level education is bachelor's degree, usually with 5 years or more.
Where do architectural and engineering managers earn the most?
Among states, New Mexico pays the highest median ($215,120). Local pay for every state and metro is below.