What Does an Assistant Project Manager Do? (And How to Become One)

Key takeaways

An assistant project manager coordinates projects and reports to the project manager. Explore key facts to know:

• The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that project management roles will grow by 6 percent between 2024 and 2034, much faster than the average for all other occupations [1].

• As an assistant project manager, you may work in industries such as marketing, construction, or health care.

• You can earn a degree to become an assistant project manager, or explore other options, such as getting an internship or pursuing certifications.

Learn more about what assistant project managers do. Afterward, if you're interested in exploring this career, consider enrolling in the Google Project Management Professional Certificate, where you'll have the opportunity to gain an immersive understanding of the practices and skills needed to succeed in an entry-level project management role.

What is an assistant project manager?

An assistant project manager's job is to ensure the project runs smoothly from start to finish. They plan and execute every step of the project, collaborating with the project manager or other team members assigned to it. 

Assistant project managers usually perform administrative duties, such as organizing and maintaining the project documents, updating the digital database, and helping to manage the project’s budget, along with basic duties, such as setting up phone calls, meetings, and site visits. They also coordinate with team members about the project details and work with vendors, clients, and employees to determine and meet project expectations.

What does an assistant project manager do?

While the roles and responsibilities of an assistant project manager depend on the company, some basic duties are usually expected. The main goal of an assistant project manager is to contribute to the planning and execution of a project. Other common responsibilities include:

• Performing administrative tasks as required, including preparing estimates and invoices and keeping track of the project’s progress, usually with the help of specific software

• Reporting to the project manager on the project’s progress through all stages

• Supporting team members by researching project information

• Updating and reporting on the project’s schedule, progress, budget, and spending

• Collaborating with stakeholders about their needs and goals for the project

Assistant project manager work environment

Assistant project managers can work in a number of industries as well as large companies and agencies. Some common industries include health care, construction, and marketing. Some assistant project managers will shadow an experienced project manager to gain experience. Some work alone, and others work alongside a team.

What is the difference between a project manager and an assistant project manager?

The main differences between a project manager and an assistant project manager are seniority and responsibilities. For example, an assistant project manager likely takes instructions from a project manager, while a project manager has more leadership authority due to their years of experience.

Assistant project manager skills

Excellent organizational skills are required to become an assistant project manager. Updating and tracking the budget and planning are some of the key duties of the role. Organization is also imperative in this role because assistant project managers may work on several projects at once. 

Other essential skills include:

• Communication: Because teams from different departments may be working together, it is important to provide concise instructions to each person involved so they understand their required expectations. You may also work with vendors and suppliers, so it is important to communicate with them effectively.

• Leadership: Strong leadership skills are important for motivating and leading the team toward project completion. They can also help you delegate responsibilities to the appropriate teams.

• Experience in management software: No matter what field you are in, it's important to have knowledge of the specific software you'll be working with. This means it will be helpful if you are proficient in Microsoft Suite or other management software programs before getting the job.

Read more: What Are Leadership Skills, and Why Are They Important?

How much do assistant project managers make? Salary and job outlook

The median total salary for an assistant project manager is $81,000, according to Glassdoor [2]. This figure includes base salary and additional pay, which may represent profit-sharing, commissions, bonuses, or other compensation. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 6 percent job growth rate for project management specialists from 2024 to 2034, a role closely related to assistant project managers [1]. Additionally, the Project Management Institute (PMI) reports that 2.3 million project management-related jobs will need to be filled every year through 2030 to keep pace with demand [3].

How to become an assistant project manager

Assistant project manager jobs usually require earning a bachelor’s degree, gaining experience working in a project management environment, possessing skills that help you oversee projects from start to finish, and earning additional training or certificates that will improve your resume. Experience in this role, such as working on other assistant project manager jobs, can prove beneficial in furthering your career into a higher project management position.

1. Earn your degree.

The educational requirements to become an assistant project manager vary depending on what qualifications a company is looking for in an employee. While it's possible to get hired without a college degree, you may need one as you advance in your career. According to Zippia, 68 percent of assistant project managers have a bachelor's degree [4].

2. Gain experience.

Gaining experience in an entry-level job, such as an administrative assistant, will help you learn and grow your management skills. It will be a bonus if the job is in the industry you have an interest in working for as an assistant project manager.

An internship can also help you gain experience so you can learn what the role entails, as well as the ability to watch and learn from the project manager. 

3. Build key skills.

Build or strengthen key project management skills. These can include interpersonal skills for interacting with team members, vendors, stakeholders, and others involved in the project from start to finish, as well as technical skills, such as familiarity with project management tools. 

4. Consider certifications or training.

A certification or training in project management, such as the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), can be a great way to show employers your commitment to the job. There are different entry-level project management certifications to consider depending on your goals.

Build your project management skills with free resources

Subscribe to our Career Chat newsletter on LinkedIn to stay up to date on industry trends and network with other professionals. Then, explore free, digital resources to enhance your project management skills:

• Watch on YouTube: Project Management 101: Basics and Terminology

• Take a quiz: Project Management Career Quiz: Is It Right for You? Find Your Role

• Learn key terms: Project Management Terms and Definitions

Whether you want to develop a new skill, get comfortable with an in-demand technology, or advance your abilities, keep growing with a Coursera Plus subscription. You’ll get access to over 10,000 flexible courses from over 350 top universities and companies.

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