Don't become an engineering manager
newsletter.manager.dev
March 3, 2026
5 min read
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65/100
Summary
Engineering Manager roles can provide valuable skills and experience, even for those not pursuing a management career. However, some professionals advise against accepting these positions due to potential drawbacks.
Key Takeaways
- The role of Engineering Manager (EM) is becoming less appealing due to the competitive nature of promotions and fewer opportunities for advancement in flattened organizational structures.
- AI coding tools are context-blind and can generate code that does not adhere to established conventions, leading to increased rework and inefficiencies.
- Compensation for Engineering Managers can be lower than that of Senior or Staff Engineers at other companies, challenging the assumption that management roles pay more.
- Transitioning to an EM role may limit opportunities for experimentation and personal growth in technology, as managerial responsibilities often consume time and resources.
Community Sentiment
Concerns
- Many developers are unprepared for the people management and HR responsibilities that come with engineering management roles, leading to dissatisfaction and burnout.
- The perception that managers have more power and visibility can create a divide between technologists and managers, which may demotivate technical staff.
- The competitive nature of moving into management roles often leads to fewer opportunities for technical advancement, which can discourage skilled developers from pursuing their passion.
