To keep businesses productive and profitable, data processing managers plan, coordinate and supervise activities related to information systems and software applications. Career opportunities in this field exist in industries such as manufacturing, environmental technology, healthcare delivery, financial services, education and many more. Becoming a successful data processing manager can begin with enrolling in the online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Information Systems (CIS) program from Florida Institute of Technology.
Job Outlook for Data Processing Managers
Data processing managers could fall under several occupational groups as categorized by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), namely computer and information systems managers and data scientists. Employment in both occupational groups will grow substantially in the coming years.
BLS projects 17% job growth for computer and information systems managers from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average growth rate for all occupations. Even more impressive, BLS estimates that the employment of data scientists will increase by 36% over the same period, making it one of the country’s four fastest-growing occupations.
This extremely high demand corresponds to the increasing complexity of and reliance on AI, data analysis and other technology tools, along with their myriad evolving business applications. Professionals with specialized technical knowledge and education should have the best job prospects.
Data Processing Manager Job Description and Duties
Data processing managers specialize in an essential component of an organization’s overall data management. Planning, organizing and directing data processing activities are the main functions of a data processing manager. These information technology (IT) professionals may consult with staff and senior management to assess organizational needs and conduct feasibility studies to determine the best course to achieve them. Monitoring a data processing department’s efficiency and effectiveness is another ongoing task for data processing managers.
Producing cost estimates for hardware and software upgrades can also be a typical job duty for data processing managers. They may oversee computer systems operations, working with staff to troubleshoot problems and design solutions. Coordinating the installation of hardware, data communications systems and software may also fall under the data processing manager’s job description.
Further common responsibilities of data processing managers include implementing new or revised systems, evaluating designs, and developing technical standards and procedures for system maintenance and operation. Often, they lead the data processing department. In this capacity, they may recruit, hire, train and supervise staff.
Other job duties for data processing managers may include preparing and administering departmental budgets as well as preparing and presenting reports related to data processing operations. In addition, data processing managers may act as the liaison between staff and management while interfacing with external vendors and negotiating proposals.
Data processing managers usually work in offices, and a 40-hour week is standard. Traveling to industry conferences, trade shows, vendor locations and satellite offices may also be a component of data processing manager responsibilities.
Data Processing Manager Salary Potential
Salaries for data processing managers vary widely according to their specific titles and duties. According to ZipRecruiter data from March 2025, lower-level data processors earned an average annual income of $42,153, while data processing supervisors typically earned between $42,500 and $62,500 annually. However, those in management roles, such as data manager, data program manager and data services manager, earned an average salary of $97,145 per year, with a typical salary range of $66,000 to $125,500.
With additional experience, data processing managers often assume computer and information systems manager roles of increasing responsibility, resulting in higher potential annual earnings. According to BLS, these professionals earned a median salary of $169,510 in 2023.
Further, organizations increasingly incorporate a data management role into executive leadership teams, often with the title of chief data officer. BLS reports that chief executives made a median salary of $206,680 in 2023. Chief executives involved in managing companies and enterprises earned a mean salary of $390,710, a testament to the high earning potential for top leadership in certain industries. Top salaries generally go to those with the experience and advanced education to help businesses maintain a competitive edge in a fast-changing technology environment.
Education and Training Requirements for Data Management Roles
When hiring data processing managers, employers typically look for a combination of education and experience — particularly industry experience. According to BLS, most computer and information systems management jobs require a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology as well as related work experience. However, some employers prefer to hire candidates with graduate degrees in a related field.
Aspiring data management professionals can develop the skills and advanced knowledge required by top employers through a bachelor’s program focused on computer science and information systems, such as Florida Tech’s online BS in CIS. Coursework in this comprehensive degree program covers subjects like information systems, business computer skills, IT fundamentals, system administration, information security, information resource management, database systems management, software systems and advanced programming. Employers can be confident that BS in CIS grads are able to do the following:
- adapt to and effectively apply new technologies
- lead a data processing team through complex projects
- implement a process-based approach to meeting organizational goals
- develop information systems tools to help businesses succeed in a global environment
- analyze emerging technologies and recommend for selection, adoption and implementation
- leverage advanced knowledge and skills to succeed in data processing management or other IT management roles
Who Would Thrive as a Data Processing Manager?
For those who are interested in computers and technology and are adept at planning, organizing, prioritizing and delegating clearly and professionally, a career as a data processing manager may be an excellent fit. Aspiring IT professionals can gain the specialized skills and up-to-date knowledge needed for a data processing manager job by earning a BS in CIS degree from Florida Tech.
Moreover, the online model of this degree program allows students to continue working and gaining invaluable experience while they earn their degree. This facilitates immediate on-the-job application of learned skills. Plus, students can continue earning an income and pursuing promotion opportunities, all while gaining the experience and credential needed for upper-level leadership or consultant roles in a high-demand field.
Learn more about Florida Tech’s online BS in CIS program.
