Project Manager Jobs in Bakersfield, CA

Bakersfield, California$93,100 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Project Manager Jobs in Bakersfield

Looking for a Project Manager job in Bakersfield? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Project Manager in Bakersfield, CA.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Bakersfield has a strong job market for Project Managers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Project Manager Salary in Bakersfield

Entry Level
$58,310
Median
$93,100
Senior Level
$135,240

Project Manager salaries in Bakersfield are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Bakersfield is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Project PlanningAgile/ScrumRisk ManagementCommunicationBudgeting

Project Manager Job Market in Bakersfield

Bakersfield, CA is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for Project Manager professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Bakersfield offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Energy leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Project Manager roles across various sectors. The market for Project Manager positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Project Managers in Bakersfield

Local consulting firmsRegional professional servicesNational companies with local presence

Major employers hiring Project Managers in Bakersfield include Local consulting firms, Regional professional services, National companies with local presence. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Project Managers in Bakersfield

Living in Bakersfield as a Project Manager means navigating a cost of living that's close to the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Project Manager salary, housing is quite affordable at 23% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

98
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a Project Manager in Bakersfield

Bakersfield Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Project Managers in Bakersfield: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Project Manager professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in California

California has relatively high state income taxes. A Project Manager earning $93,100 might pay approximately $7,448 in state income tax. However, California's strong job market and quality of life often offset the higher tax burden.

Career Outlook for Project Managers

The job outlook for Project Managers in Bakersfield is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Bakersfield offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Project Planning, Agile/Scrum, Risk Management, Communication.

Relocating to Bakersfield

California has higher state income taxes. Factor this into salary negotiations, as gross salary comparisons can be misleading.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Project Manager salary in Bakersfield, CA?

The average Project Manager salary in Bakersfield, CA is $93,100 per year. Entry-level Project Managers typically start around $58,310, while experienced professionals can earn $135,240 or more. The national average for Project Manager roles is $95,000.

How many Project Manager jobs are available in Bakersfield?

Bakersfield has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Project Manager professionals. Major employers hiring Project Managers include Local consulting firms, Regional professional services, National companies with local presence. The Energy and Agriculture sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Bakersfield a good city for Project Managers?

Bakersfield is an solid choice for Project Managers. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's energy industry creates strong demand for business & operations professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Project Managers in Bakersfield?

Top skills for Project Managers in Bakersfield include Project Planning, Agile/Scrum, Risk Management, Communication, Budgeting. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Project Managers in Bakersfield?

Bakersfield's cost of living is near the national average (98% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Bakersfield is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Project Managers in Bakersfield?

Bakersfield Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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