Project Managers and Functional Managers: A Case Study of Job Satisfaction in a Matrix Organization

Abstract

Information regarding job satisfaction within an organization using a matrix structure is limited. This paper provides empirical evidence regarding the difference in job satisfaction between project managers and functional managers in one matrix organization: a government research and development center. Key findings of this research include the identification of the factors that provide job satisfaction for both groups and the significant difference in job satisfaction between the groups. The perceived efficiencies provided by the matrix structure may be negated by the lack of job satisfaction experienced by the functional managers.