Project manager

You'd plan and organise people and resources so a project achieves its aims.

You’d get everyone working well together and to finish the project on time and on budget. You’d spot potential problems that might come up and work out how to solve them.

You could work in almost any industry on many different types of project. You could oversee the introduction of a new computer system, a large building development or a mission to space!

Whatever the project, you’d need to have relevant technical knowledge.

What you might do

• find out what the client or company wants to achieve

• agree timescales, costs and resources needed

• create a detailed plan and schedule for each stage of the project

• select and lead a project team

• negotiate with contractors and suppliers for materials and services

• make sure each stage progresses according to the plan

• report regularly on progress to senior managers and the client

• manage risks to avoid delays

Part of your work would involve using particular project management methods such as 'PRINCE2' (Projects in Controlled Environments) or 'agile'. to break down the project into stages and check its progress.

You'd also use specialised software to help with scheduling, costing, and risk analysis.

• Association for Project Management – professional body for people working in this area

• Project Management Institute – professional membership association for people in project, program and portfolio management

• Space Careers – learn about project manager careers in the space industry