Agile Project Managers on Upwork cost $40–$85/hr.

An agile project manager plays a vital role in overseeing projects using agile methodologies such as Scrum, Kanban, and Lean. These professionals are responsible for guiding project teams, managing stakeholders, and ensuring that project goals are met efficiently within the agile framework throughout its lifecycle. If you're considering hiring an agile project manager for your company, it’s essential to understand the salary range and factors that influence their compensation.

Salary range

In the United States, the average agile project manager's salary ranges from $130,000 to $208,000 per year, depending on factors such as years of experience, location, and industry. According to Glassdoor, the national average salary for an agile project manager is around $164,000 annually. The salary range can vary significantly in high-demand areas like New York and California, where experienced agile project managers can earn upwards of $200,000 due to the higher cost of living and competitive job market.

Salary estimates for Agile project managers in the highest paying cities, such as San Francisco, Washington, DC, and Seattle, come in above the national average, with senior project managers and those in leadership roles often exceeding $175,000. On the other hand, in regions with lower living costs, such as Virginia, agile project managers may earn closer to the lower end of the salary range, around $130,000. Professionals with certifications such as PMP or Certified Scrum Master (CSM) can also command higher salaries due to their specialized knowledge.

Hourly pay

For businesses hiring an agile project manager on an hourly basis, the rates vary depending on the individual's experience, expertise, and geographic location. Here’s a general breakdown of hourly rates:

• Entry-level: $20 - $40/hr
• Intermediate: $40 - $85/hr
• Expert: $90+/hr

Hourly rates for agile project managers tend to be higher in tech-centric locations like San Francisco or New York, where experienced professionals with certifications and proven project success command higher wages. Freelance agile project managers or those working on specific software development or IT project initiatives may charge premium rates, especially if they bring advanced skills in tools such as Jira or have a strong background in technical project management.

How much does it cost to hire an agile project manager?

The cost of hiring an agile project manager varies depending on the project scope, required expertise, and whether the engagement is full-time or part-time. Businesses seeking project-based or freelance managers can find flexibility through platforms like Upwork, which allows for tailored hiring to match budget and project demands.

Agile project manager cost factors

Several factors affect the cost of hiring an agile project manager, including:

• Experience level. Agile project managers with significant years of experience handling complex projects in industries like healthcare, software development, or information technology (IT) will typically demand higher compensation. Senior project managers with leadership responsibilities often command premium rates.
• Certifications. Possessing certifications such as PMP, Certified Scrum Master (CSM), or Agile Scrum qualifications can increase earning potential. These credentials demonstrate a deep understanding of agile frameworks and make a manager more competitive in the market.
• Location. The cost of living in areas like New York, San Francisco, and Washington, DC, drives up the salary expectations for agile project managers. In contrast, locations with a lower cost of living, such as Virginia, often see salaries that align closer to the national average.
• Project complexity. The size and complexity of the project can also influence costs. Agile project managers working on large-scale program management initiatives, especially those involving cross-functional teams or global stakeholders, may command higher salaries or hourly rates.
• Specialization in Agile methodologies. Agile project managers experienced with multiple frameworks—such as Scrum, Kanban, Waterfall, or Lean—are highly sought after, especially in industries undergoing digital transformations. Their ability to adapt methodologies to a project's specific needs can result in higher compensation.

Examples of agile project manager roles

The agile project manager job title encompasses a variety of specialized roles depending on the specific agile framework and project needs. Here are five common agile project manager job titles that reflect different responsibilities:

• Scrum Master. A Scrum Master facilitates the Scrum process within a team, ensuring that the team adheres to agile principles and removes roadblocks. They help the team deliver products iteratively and focus on maximizing efficiency.
• Kanban Project Manager. Specializing in Kanban, this role involves managing workflow visualizations, limiting work-in-progress, and optimizing the delivery of tasks across teams. A Kanban project manager ensures that teams are working efficiently and projects move smoothly.
• Agile Program Manager. An agile program manager oversees multiple projects within a larger program, ensuring alignment with strategic goals. They often coordinate between project teams and leadership, using agile methodologies to track progress and deliver results.
• Product Owner. Acting as a bridge between the project team and stakeholders, a product owner focuses on managing the product backlog, ensuring that the team delivers maximum value and meets user needs. They work closely with project managers to prioritize tasks and guide the product's development.
• Technical Project Manager. In charge of more technical projects, a technical project manager oversees agile project teams working on complex IT or software development projects. They ensure that technical requirements are met and that the project stays on track through agile project planning and execution.

FAQs

For businesses looking to hire an Agile project manager, here are some frequently asked questions to help you understand the role, costs, and hiring process.

What is the average salary of an Agile project manager?

The average salary for an agile project manager in the U.S. is approximately $164,000 annually. Salaries generally range from $130,000 to $210,000, with professionals in high-cost areas like New York or San Francisco earning on the higher end of the spectrum due to the competitive job market. In some industries, there may be a base salary plus the potential to earn commission or bonuses.

Do agile project managers need certifications?

While not always required, agile project managers often hold certifications such as Certified Scrum Master (CSM), PMP, or other agile-related credentials. These certifications can increase earning potential and make candidates more competitive in industries that prioritize agile frameworks.

What industries hire agile project managers?

Agile project managers are in high demand in industries like software development, healthcare, information technology, and finance. Companies within these industries rely on agile methodologies to improve project efficiency, meet stakeholder needs, and deliver quality products on time.

How much do senior agile project managers make?

Senior agile project managers with extensive years of experience and expertise in managing large-scale or complex initiatives can earn between $134,000 and $208,000 annually. Senior project managers in high-paying cities like San Francisco and Washington, DC, often command salaries at the higher end of this range.

How can I hire an agile project manager?

You can hire an agile project manager on platforms like Upwork, LinkedIn, or job boards specializing in project management roles. When creating a job posting, be sure to include details on the agile methodologies required, project size, and certifications. Upwork is an excellent platform for finding freelance agile project managers, offering flexible hiring options for both short-term and long-term projects.

Hire agile project managers on Upwork

Hiring an agile project manager can help ensure the smooth delivery of projects by applying agile principles that improve team collaboration and meet business goals. Upwork offers access to agile project managers experienced in Scrum, Kanban, Waterfall, and other agile methodologies. Whether you need a full-time manager or a freelancer for a specific project, Upwork allows you to connect with top project management talent. Sign up today to browse available agile project managers or post a job to start your hiring process on Upwork.