Tech Lead / Engineering Manager
Tech Lead and Engineering Manager are two distinct paths for senior technical professionals. Tech Lead — IC++ (individual contributor plus): still codes 60-70%, leads technical decisions, mentors. Engineering Manager — manager track: 80-100% management (1:1s, hiring, performance, strategy), codes only occasionally. Choose path: mentorship/architecture → Tech Lead, people leadership → EM.
Tech Lead vs Engineering Manager — key decision
TECH LEAD: still codes (60-70%), leads technical decisions (architectural reviews, code reviews), mentors juniors. Remains 'IC' (Individual Contributor) on career ladder. ENGINEERING MANAGER: manager track. 80-100% management activities — 1:1s with team members, hiring, performance management, strategy planning, stakeholder management. Codes only occasionally (PR review).
Can oscillate — many seniors try EM for 1-2 years, return to Tech Lead, or vice versa.
Top firms with dual career path (IC + Manager): Google, Meta, Netflix, Spotify, Klarna, King.
Goal
Develop Tech Leads capable of mentorship and technical leadership, or Engineering Managers leading teams of 5-10 engineers toward business goals through psychological safety, clear strategy, and excellent execution.
Recommended EITT Trainings
- First-time Manager
- Communication and Leadership in Team Management
- Leadership and Team Management
- Conflict Management - Resolution and Mediation Techniques
- Coaching for Managers
Interested in this path?
Contact us to discuss the details of the training program and tailor it to your needs.