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Certification Program Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Assistant Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$83K - $95K/yr

Support Program Managers with project planning, development, engineering, construction, technical ... certifications. Not sure this role is the perfect match? We encourage you to apply if STV's work ...

Manage program budgets and ensure financial accountability by tracking expenses and forecasting ... PMP, PgMP, or similar certifications strongly preferred. Required Skills/Abilities * Proficiency in ...

Security Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$132K - $161K/yr

The Security Program Manager is responsible for the administration, implementation, and continuous ... Professional certifications such as CPP, PSP, CFE, PMP, or FEMA Incident Management credentials.

New

Security Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$132K - $161K/yr

The Security Program Manager is responsible for the administration, implementation, and continuous ... Professional certifications such as CPP, PSP, CFE, PMP, or FEMA Incident Management credentials.

New

Regulatory Program Manager

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$114K - $194K/yr

Regulatory Change Program Manager Summary The Regulatory Change Program Manager will lead ... Professional project management or change management certification is preferred. #LI-MG1 #Hybrid ...

Regulatory Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$114K - $194K/yr

Regulatory Change Program Manager Summary The Regulatory Change Program Manager will lead ... management certification is preferred. #LI-MG1 #Hybrid Salary Range: $114,700 - 194,900 USD Salary ...

Senior Program Manager

Waukegan, IL

$110K - $110K/yr

As a systems certification provider, Astronics CSC has worked on over 100 projects for industry ... Efficiently manages multiple, and often competing, large or otherwise complex program schedules and ...

Showing results 41-60

Certification Program Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.7K

$110.7K

$161.7K

How much do certification program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for certification program manager in Chicago, IL is $110,700.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $136,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a certification program manager do?

A Certification Program Manager oversees the development, implementation, and maintenance of certification programs within an organization. They ensure that certification standards meet industry requirements and manage the process of testing and credentialing individuals. This role often involves collaborating with subject matter experts, managing budgets, and maintaining compliance with industry regulations. Certification Program Managers also analyze program effectiveness and make improvements to keep certifications relevant and valuable.

What is the difference between Certification Program Manager vs Certification Specialist?

AspectCertification Program ManagerCertification Specialist
CredentialsProject management certifications (e.g., PMP), industry-specific certificationsCertification-specific knowledge, industry certifications, sometimes project management credentials
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple certification programs, manages teams, strategic planningFocuses on administering and maintaining certification processes, supporting candidates
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in organizations offering or managing certification programs across industriesCommon in certification bodies, testing centers, and organizations with certification offerings

The Certification Program Manager typically oversees the entire certification program, including strategy and team management, while the Certification Specialist handles the day-to-day administration and support of certification processes. Both roles require industry knowledge and relevant certifications, but their scope and responsibilities differ.

Are certification program managers in high demand?

Certification program managers are in high demand across various industries as organizations seek professionals to develop, oversee, and improve certification processes. Strong project management skills and knowledge of industry standards increase employability, especially in sectors like technology, healthcare, and education.

How to become a certified program manager?

To become a certified program manager, individuals typically need to gain relevant experience in project or program management, often several years, and earn a recognized certification such as the Program Management Professional (PgMP) from PMI. Developing skills in leadership, strategic planning, and using project management tools can also enhance qualifications.

What is the best certification for a certification program manager?

The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is highly regarded for certification program managers, demonstrating expertise in project planning, execution, and leadership. Additionally, certifications like the Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) or Program Management Professional (PgMP) can enhance credentials depending on the specific role and industry. Familiarity with project management tools and methodologies is also beneficial.

What are some common challenges faced by certification program managers, and how can they be addressed?

Certification Program Managers often encounter challenges such as keeping certification content current with industry standards, coordinating with diverse stakeholders, and managing multiple projects simultaneously. Staying proactive by regularly reviewing certification requirements, fostering strong communication channels with subject matter experts, and using project management tools can help address these challenges. Additionally, building relationships with industry partners and participants is key to ensuring the program remains relevant and respected.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a certification program manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Certification Program Manager, you need strong project management abilities, experience with credentialing or certification standards, and a relevant degree such as in education, business, or a related field. Familiarity with Learning Management Systems (LMS), exam administration platforms, and often certification such as PMP or CAE is highly valuable. Excellent organizational skills, stakeholder communication, and attention to detail set top performers apart in this role. These competencies ensure the effective development, maintenance, and delivery of certification programs that meet industry standards and stakeholder needs.
What are popular job titles related to Certification Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL? For Certification Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Certification Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Certification Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Certification Program Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Certification Program Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Certification Program Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $110,700 per year, or $53.2 per hour.

$88K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Thales Defense & Security, Inc. (TDSI) Headquartered in Clarksburg, MD, is a U.S. company that has been serving domestic and international defense Air, Land and Sea domains for 60+ years. With over 1,000 employees, TDSI and its four subsidiaries (Advanced Acoustic Concepts, Digital Receiver Technology, Tampa Microwave, and Trusted Cyber Technologies), supports U.S. Joint Services, special operations forces and multi-national partners with a variety of communication, visualization, signal intelligence/electronic warfare, and sensor/sonar capabilities. TDSI's key technologies include tactical handheld radios, expeditionary satellite terminals, helmet-mounted displays, optics and target recognition capability, advanced radars, undersea sensing and missile systems. Lives depend on what we do!
Top Benefits (Subject to terms of applicable policies/plans)
  • Competitive Salary
  • Yearly Incentive Compensation Plan
  • Medical insurance for self and eligible family members
  • Generous 401(k) program - up to 7% company contribution and 100% immediate vesting
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Paid wellness, vacation, and holiday leave
  • Paid maternity, paternity, and parental leave
  • 9/80 Work Schedule (every other Friday off)
  • Hybrid working environment

The Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) business unit of Thales Defense & Security, Inc. is a leading innovator in helmet mounted display technology. We have an opening for an Associate Program Manager (PM) in our Aurora, IL office to support development and production programs in the military market.
This position will report to the Director of Program Management and requires close coordination with other departments including Engineering, Production, Quality Assurance, Finance, Business Development, and Contracts. Coordination with Thales Group offices in other countries may also be required to successfully execute joint programs.
Responsibilities
  • Management of multiple assigned projects ensuring compliance with all Thales program management processes and procedures, including development of program plans, task definitions, schedules, budgets, program technical requirements, resource requirements and risk management on all assigned programs.
  • Provision of timely reporting to senior program management leadership with details on program status and performance.
  • Conduct regular cross-functional meetings to review status towards objectives and identify issues early in the program.
  • Responsible for customer communication and satisfaction, including follow-on business quotes and proposals.
  • Management of technical and financial risks and ability to lead/conduct of technical reviews.
  • Responsible for acting as Capture Lead for specific proposal efforts, while supporting additional proposal efforts with budget and schedule information.
  • Responsible for ensuring coordination of activities with subcontractors, vendors and suppliers as necessary to support assigned programs.
  • Responsible for ensuring effective scope directions from the customer and suppliers are appropriately processed through the contract.
  • Coordinate and foster proper communication between the customer and the program team.

Qualifications
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • U.S. Citizenship required. - Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.
  • Bachelor's degree required, preferably in related technical field.
  • Minimum of 2 - 4 years' experience as an engineer (software, electrical, mechanical, systems, etc.). Previous Program Management experience preferred.
  • Basic accounting and financial knowledge and profit-oriented business sense as well as effective negotiating skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and work ethic.
  • Ability to work in a team environment and interact with employees in all departments and functions.
  • Computer proficiency required and experience with Microsoft Project or equivalent.
  • Excellent written and verbal communications skills with experience managing small teams, working effectively in a matrix team structure, setting business growth objectives and achieving results.
  • Ability to travel up to 25% domestically and internationally.

Preferred Qualifications
  • US government/ DOD contracting experience/ understanding of required processes for reporting through major defense contractors highly preferred.
  • Commercial Avionics Industry background.
  • Experience working cross functionally along with a familiarity of full product lifecycle for complex systems.
  • Experience with avionics modification programs for either fixed and/or rotary wing.
  • EVMS experience.
  • PMP certification.
  • Conversational fluency in French or Korean.

The annualized pay range for this role is $88,562-$113,163 USD along with a target incentive compensation plan (ICP) of 10%. The pay range provided is a good faith estimate representative of the experience level for the role described above. TDSI considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
For specific questions about this job posting, candidates may contact the recruiter at careers@thalesdsi.com.
Thales Defense & Security, Inc. is committed to non-discrimination as applicable under federal, state and local laws. We are an E-Verify Employer.
If you need an accommodation or assistance in order to apply for a position with Thales Defense & Security, Inc., please call Human Resources at 202-961-1016.
#LI-JD1 #LI-Hybrid