How to Become a Computer and Information Systems Manager: A Career Guide
Introduction: The Role of a Computer and Information Systems Manager
Computer and Information Systems Managers (CIS Managers), often referred to as IT Directors, Chief Information Officers (CIOs), or IT Project Managers, play a crucial role in organizations by developing, implementing, and overseeing technology infrastructure. These professionals ensure that companies leverage the latest technological advancements to remain competitive and secure.
In 2023, there were 592,600 Computer and Information Systems Manager positions in the United States, reflecting an 11.1% increase from 2022. The median annual salary reached $169,510, marking a 3.3% wage increase from the previous year and a 6.6% rise from 2021.
With the rapid expansion of cloud computing, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence (AI), the demand for CIS Managers is projected to grow significantly. This article explores the education, skills, responsibilities, career trajectory, job outlook, and earnings potential for those aspiring to become IT leaders.
Educational Requirements and Certifications
1. Obtain a Strong Educational Background
Most Computer and Information Systems Managers hold at least a bachelor’s degree, with many advancing to a master’s degree for senior leadership roles. Common fields of study include:
Computer Science
Information Technology (IT)
Cybersecurity
Software Engineering
Business Administration with a Technology Focus
Advanced degrees such as an MBA in Information Systems or a Master’s in Cybersecurity or Data Science provide a competitive edge for leadership positions.
2. Earn IT Certifications for Career Advancement
Although not mandatory, certifications can significantly boost your credibility and earning potential:
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – Ideal for cybersecurity-focused roles.
Project Management Professional (PMP) – Valuable for managing IT projects efficiently.
Certified Information Systems Manager (CISM) – Recommended for IT governance and risk management roles.
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Useful for professionals managing cloud computing infrastructures.
Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert – Specialization in Microsoft cloud technology.
3. Develop Essential Leadership & Technical Skills
Successful CIS Managers blend technical expertise with leadership capabilities, including:
IT Infrastructure Management – Overseeing servers, networks, and cloud computing.
Cybersecurity & Risk Management – Protecting company data from cyber threats.
Software Development & Integration – Managing software projects and system upgrades.
Business Strategy Alignment – Aligning IT initiatives with company goals.
Leadership & Team Management – Managing IT teams and collaborating with executives.
Key Responsibilities of a Computer and Information Systems Manager
CIS Managers are responsible for ensuring the efficient operation of an organization's technology systems. Their primary duties include:
Developing IT strategies to enhance business efficiency.
Implementing and maintaining cybersecurity protocols to protect sensitive data.
Overseeing software development and system upgrades for business applications.
Managing IT teams, network administrators, and software engineers.
Allocating budgets for IT projects and ensuring cost-effective solutions.
Ensuring compliance with data protection laws such as GDPR and CCPA.
Collaborating with executive teams to integrate technology with business goals.
With digital transformation accelerating across industries, IT leaders play a crucial role in business success.
Top Industries for Computer and Information Systems Managers
Industries with the Highest Employment for CIS Managers
Certain industries hire the most IT managers due to their reliance on technology:
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services – 195,550 jobs, $172,760 median salary (+2.5% above national average).
Information Technology – 83,810 jobs, $183,370 median salary (+12.2% above national average).
Finance and Insurance – 64,920 jobs, $173,090 median salary (+4.9% above national average).
Management of Companies & Enterprises – 60,460 jobs, $170,190 median salary (+1.2% above national average).
Manufacturing – 41,350 jobs, $175,540 median salary (+5.2% above national average).
Industries Offering the Highest Salaries
Information Technology – $183,370 median salary (+12.2% above national average).
Manufacturing – $175,540 median salary (+5.2% above national average).
Finance and Insurance – $173,090 median salary (+4.9% above national average).
Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services – $172,760 median salary (+2.5% above national average).
Mining, Quarrying, and Oil & Gas Extraction – $170,720 median salary (+4.2% above national average).
IT managers in finance, technology, and cybersecurity tend to earn higher salaries due to the complexity of their responsibilities.
Best Locations for Computer and Information Systems Managers
Top States for Employment
The states with the highest number of CIS Manager jobs include:
California – 98,430 jobs, $210,490 median salary (+20.1% above national average).
Texas – 62,620 jobs, $164,840 median salary (-6% below national average).
New York – 39,190 jobs, $207,000 median salary (+18.4% above national average).
New Jersey – 27,890 jobs, $191,450 median salary (+13.5% above national average).
Florida – 27,110 jobs, $158,380 median salary (-9% below national average).
Top Cities for Computer and Information Systems Managers
New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA – 50,760 jobs, $210,300 median salary (+21.6% above national average).
San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA – 26,780 jobs, $220,980 median salary (+31.4% above national average).
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA – 24,740 jobs, $180,820 median salary (+6.9% above national average).
Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX – 24,680 jobs, $166,930 median salary (-2.7% below national average).
Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH – 22,340 jobs, $176,280 median salary (+7.9% above national average).
Top Locations for Job Concentration
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA – 4.7X the national average job concentration, $284,478 median salary.
San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA – 2.8X the national average job concentration, $220,980 median salary.
Trenton, NJ – 2.2X the national average job concentration, $181,800 median salary.
Durham-Chapel Hill, NC – 2.1X the national average job concentration, $169,600 median salary.
Career Growth and Advancement Opportunities
1. Leadership Progression
Most CIS Managers start in roles like:
IT Project Manager
Network Administrator
Cybersecurity Manager
With experience, they advance to:
Chief Technology Officer (CTO)
Chief Information Officer (CIO)
Vice President of IT
2. Entrepreneurship & Consulting
Many IT leaders become tech entrepreneurs or consultants for businesses needing IT guidance.
Conclusion: Why Become a Computer and Information Systems Manager?
A career in IT management offers:
High earning potential ($169,510 median salary, up to $284,478 in top locations).
Opportunities across multiple industries (tech, finance, healthcare, manufacturing).
Job security with increasing demand for cybersecurity and cloud computing experts.
Career progression leading to executive leadership roles.
For tech-savvy professionals with leadership skills, becoming a CIS Manager is a highly rewarding career path.
For more detailed insights, visit our Computer and Information Systems Managers Dashboard.
