The Rise of Hybrid Roles: Product Manager + Engineer

The Evolution of Tech Roles in 2025

According to Robert Half's 2025 research, the demand for professionals who combine technical depth with business acumen is at an all-time high. With AI/ML hiring up 88%, companies increasingly seek versatile professionals who can bridge the gap between engineering and product strategy.

What Are Hybrid Roles?

• Technical Product Manager: PM with engineering background
• Engineering Manager: Developer who leads people
• Solutions Architect: Engineer with sales skills
• Developer Advocate: Engineer with marketing abilities
• Data PM: PM with data science expertise

Why Hybrid Roles Are Growing

Several factors drive this trend:

1. Faster communication between technical and business teams
2. More efficient decision-making
3. Better product outcomes
4. Reduced need for translation layers
5. Companies doing more with smaller teams

Skills for Hybrid Success

Technical Foundation

• Coding ability (doesn't need to be expert level)
• System design understanding
• Data analysis capabilities
• Technical communication

Business Skills

• Strategic thinking
• Stakeholder management
• Financial understanding
• Customer empathy

Career Paths Into Hybrid Roles

From Engineering

Develop business skills through MBA, product courses, or rotational programs.

From Business

Learn technical skills through bootcamps, online courses, or internal transfers.

The Compensation Advantage

Hybrid roles often command premium salaries due to their rarity and value.

Conclusion

As technology becomes central to every business, professionals who bridge the technical-business divide will be increasingly valuable.