ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Associate Director Programs Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAssociate Programs JobsAssociate Director Programs Jobs

Associate Director Programs information

See salary details

$30.5K

$102.7K

$173K

How much do associate director programs jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate director programs in the United States is $102,728.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $141,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Associate Director of Programs do?

An Associate Director of Programs is responsible for overseeing the planning, implementation, and evaluation of a company's programs or projects within a specific department or organization. They work closely with the Director of Programs and other leadership to ensure program goals are met, budgets are managed effectively, and staff are supported. Their duties often include supervising program managers, analyzing program performance, developing strategies for improvement, and representing the organization to stakeholders. This role requires strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

What is the difference between Associate Director Programs vs Program Manager?

AspectAssociate Director ProgramsProgram Manager
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree; often master's; relevant experienceBachelor's degree; experience in project management
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, team oversight, cross-department collaborationProject execution, timeline management, stakeholder communication
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, education, healthcare, corporate sectorsSimilar sectors, often within larger organizations

The Associate Director Programs typically focus on strategic oversight and leadership of multiple projects, requiring higher-level planning and coordination. Program Managers handle day-to-day project execution, ensuring deliverables meet deadlines. Both roles are essential in organizational success but differ mainly in scope and strategic involvement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Director Programs, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Director Programs, you need strong program management, strategic planning, and leadership skills, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience in overseeing complex projects. Familiarity with project management software, budgeting tools, and data analysis systems is often required. Exceptional communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving abilities help you lead teams and drive organizational goals. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure effective program delivery, alignment with organizational strategy, and successful outcomes across multiple initiatives.

What are some typical challenges faced by an Associate Director of Programs, and how can they be addressed?

Associate Directors of Programs often juggle multiple projects and teams, making prioritization and time management crucial. A common challenge is balancing strategic oversight with hands-on problem-solving, especially when unexpected issues arise. Effective communication and delegation are key to ensuring program goals are met while supporting team development. Building strong relationships with stakeholders and fostering a collaborative environment can help mitigate challenges and keep programs on track.
More about Associate Director Programs jobs
What cities are hiring for Associate Director Programs jobs? Cities with the most Associate Director Programs job openings:
What states have the most Associate Director Programs jobs? States with the most job openings for Associate Director Programs jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Associate Director Programs jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Director Programs jobs are:
Associate Director Programs jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Director Programs job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,728 per year, or $49.4 per hour.
Associate Director - Programs and Engagement

Associate Director - Programs and Engagement

Centers

Jacksonville, AL

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Overview

CENTERS, LLC is a professional management firm specializing in facility, operation, and program management for higher education. CENTERS' management approach is customized for each client yet retains our uniform quality. Our firm unites site staff with a centralized administrative team, each contributing to the firm's goals and client needs. The CENTERS team is innovative, entrepreneurial, trail-blazing, and ambitious for both CENTERS and our clients.

Commitment to the well-being, security, and future of our employees is a priority. View the comprehensive information about the competitive benefits package on our careers page then scroll down to CENTERS Benefits (click link to view).

Responsibilities

Job Summary

The Associate Director - Programs and Engagement is a member of the department's senior leadership team and actively engages in department management, leadership, and visioning. The position is responsible for delivering programmatic outcomes to the client related to student life activation, student learning, and revenue generation through an effective recreation programming plan. This role also plays a key part in staff development, providing mentorship and direction to professional and student staff. At Jacksonville State University, the Associate Director leads marketing and assessment efforts across all program areas, ensuring data-informed decision-making and continuous improvement.

This position will work on-site at our Jacksonville State University Client location. Located in the Appalachian foothills almost midway between Birmingham and Atlanta, Jax State has grown from very humble beginnings as a state teachers college in 1883 into the Alabama regional university with the highest percentage of accredited programs.

Essential Functions

  • Provide strategic oversight of all program areas, including fitness, intramural sports, club sports, aquatics, adventure recreation, youth programs, and special events.
  • Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive program strategy focused on participation growth, engagement, and program quality.
  • Ensure program success, manage risk, ensure staff training/certification standards, and lead policy and procedure development.
  • Assist in the development, forecast, and management of annual budget. Set financial targets for the areas of responsibility.
  • Foster and maintain relationships with clients and stakeholders. Immerse themselves and the operation into the client community.
  • Contribute to the annual operating business plan to deliver client objectives and CENTERS standards. Develop an annual comprehensive program plan that includes programs, finances, and participation targets.
  • Prepares and delivers required and requested reports and data to the client and CENTERS central office.
  • Direct assessment initiatives, including data collection, analysis, and reporting on participation, satisfaction, and program outcomes.
  • Utilize data and trends to inform decisions, improve programs, and communicate impact to campus stakeholders.
  • Adjudicate participant violations of program policies.
  • Assist with departmental operations and special projects as needed.

Staff Supervision

  • Supervise and support program area professional staff, ensuring alignment, accountability, and consistent execution across all areas.
  • Select, train, manage, develop, and evaluate staff.
  • Plan department staffing levels in conjunction with Human Resources.
  • Act as a backup in the management of department-wide bi-weekly payroll.

Site-Specific Responsibilities

  • Oversee marketing efforts on behalf of the department, including campaign planning, messaging, and coordination with internal marketing resources.
Qualifications

Education and Experience

  • Bachelor's degree required. Master's degree preferred.
  • Minimum 5+ years of progressive professional experience working in recreation programs. 
  • Knowledge of standard practices in recreational sports.
  • Demonstrated experience in program development, implementation, and/or evaluation.
  • Minimum of 3 years supervision and leadership experience.

Skills and Abilities

  • Familiarity with recreation/membership software. Strong computer skills.
  • Ability to navigate, collaborate, and work alongside other university departments.
  • Entrepreneurial spirit and enthusiasm.
  • Ability to motivate and lead employees and hold them accountable.
  • Proven track record of developing and maintaining strong, lasting relationships with relevant stakeholders.
Work Environment and Physical Demands

Work Environment

  • Office environment/fitness center environment
  • Moderate to loud noise
  • Occasional evening or weekend work      
  • Non-smoking environment                      

Physical Demands 

  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position 60% of the day.
  • Constantly operates a computer and other office equipment.
  • Must be able to traverse throughout the facility and campus. Regularly ascending/descending building levels and occasionally ladders or stools.
  • Must be able to lift, move, and set up items weighing as much as 30 lbs.
  • Must be able to discuss, converse with, and exchange accurate information with arena patrons, staff, stakeholders, etc. 

 Travel Required 

  • Local, regional, and national travel as required. 
Employment Type: OTHER

Apply