Scrum masters control and manage project tasks using the Agile project management method. This involves working with a small team (scrum team), leading them through the project management process to achieve the desired results. They often work in software development.
The Work
You could be:
coordinating sprints (a set period of time, usually 2-3 weeks, in which specific work has to be completed)
scheduling and leading daily stand-up meetings (15-minute discussions on progress)
scheduling and leading retrospective meetings (where the scrum team reflect on the work done in each sprint and how to improve)
liaising between the scrum team and other departments involved in the project
mentoring and coaching team members in following the Agile framework
resolving issues and conflicts that arise
managing any risks to the successful completion of the project
continually monitoring the project and adapting to changes in requirements or timelines
doing project demonstrations.
Pay
The figures below are only a guide. Actual pay rates may vary, depending on:
where you work
the type of industry or business you work for
the size of company or organisation you work for
the demand for the job.
A junior scrum master can earn around £25,000 - £35,000 a year. With more experience and professional certification, this could rise to around £60,000 a year. With several years of experience, the salary could be up to £90,000 a year.
Conditions
You would work in an office, from home or a mixture of both, but you may visit clients on site.
Working hours could be long and might include evenings and weekends to meet deadlines.
Many entrants have a degree (SCQF Levels 9-10) in computing, business or communications.
For entry to a degree you normally need 4-5 Highers, with subjects required depending on the course, but useful subjects could include English, Maths and Computing Science.
Some scrum masters may have previous experience in software development and working in an Agile project management environment.
It will help to have a foundation level professional qualification in Agile (see ‘Training’ below).
What Does it Take?
You should be able to:
think strategically
communicate (including listen) and negotiate well
make decisions confidently
cope with stress and work under pressure to meet deadlines.
You should have:
excellent problem solving skills
strong networking and influencing skills
excellent ‘people’ and teamworking skills
knowledge of coding and software development frameworks
excellent organisational skills
business awareness.
Training
You could study part time for a degree or postgraduate qualification in business, computing or communications courses while you are working.
If you start as junior scrum master, with experience you would move on to be a scrum master.
There is generally no hierarchy in terms of senior posts, but with experience your salary will grow, and you may take on bigger or more complex projects.
