Many senior developers face a choice between a deeper technical track and management. Computer and information systems managers plan and direct technology work, set priorities, manage budgets and lead teams. The data show a strong technical base and a clear set of management skills to build.
What transfers
Of 22 important skills for IT managers, 17 are at or near the level of a typical software developer. Critical thinking, reading comprehension, judgment and decision making, systems analysis and systems evaluation are strengths.
The gaps
The largest gap is management of financial resources, followed by management of personnel resources, monitoring, coordination and instructing. On the knowledge side, managers rely much more on administration and management and on personnel and human resources: hiring, performance reviews and planning.
Experience counts
Both occupations are in O*NET Job Zone 4. A bachelor's degree is the most common education (48%). Experience is the main barrier: 40% of IT managers report six to eight years of related experience. The BLS lists no license; certification is typically optional, more relevant in areas such as IT security.
Pay
In May 2025 the national median was $175,140 for computer and information systems managers and $135,980 for software developers, about $39,160 more a year. The middle half of IT managers earned about $138,060 to $220,730.
Testing it first
- Lead a project, mentor a junior developer or own a team budget before applying for manager roles.
- Talk to managers about how much of their week is still technical.
- If management is not for you, a staff or principal engineer track may give you growth without it.