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Children Program Director Jobs in Elizabeth, NJ (NOW HIRING)

Program Director

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$66K - $68K/yr

The Program Director role is located at our Salome Ureña Campus site and is responsible for the ... Children's Aid Mission: To help children in poverty to succeed and thrive. We do this by providing ...

The Assistant Program Director is responsible for assisting with the management and supervision of ... Link children and their families to appropriate and needed services. * Address on-going behavior ...

Program Director

New York, NY · On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

Partnership with Children works with public schools in New York City's highest-need communities to ... Conduct weekly structured administrative supervision of direct reports (Social Work Directors who ...

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Children Program Director information

See Elizabeth, NJ salary details

$29.7K

$78.7K

$137.9K

How much do children program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for children program director in Elizabeth, NJ is $78,698.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,300.00 and $93,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a children program director do?

A Children Program Director is responsible for designing, managing, and evaluating programs and activities for children, often within educational, recreational, or community settings. They oversee staff, develop age-appropriate curricula, ensure the safety and well-being of participants, and coordinate with parents and community organizations. Their role involves budgeting, scheduling, and maintaining compliance with relevant regulations to create a positive and enriching environment for children.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a children program director?

To thrive as a Children Program Director, you need a background in education, child development, or a related field, often with a bachelor's degree and experience in program management. Familiarity with curriculum planning tools, child safety regulations, and management software is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you inspire staff, engage families, and respond effectively to challenges. These competencies are essential for creating enriching, safe, and effective programs that support children's growth and well-being.

What are some common challenges faced by a children program director, and how can they be effectively managed?

Children Program Directors often face challenges such as balancing diverse needs of children, managing staff, and ensuring program compliance with safety and educational standards. Effective management involves maintaining clear communication with team members, staying updated on best practices in child development, and fostering strong relationships with parents and community partners. Proactively addressing staff training and seeking regular feedback can also help create a positive, adaptable program environment.

What is the difference between Children Program Director vs Children Activities Coordinator?

Children Program DirectorChildren Activities Coordinator
Develops and oversees overall program strategies and policiesPlans and executes specific activities and events for children
Requires higher-level management skills and experienceFocuses on day-to-day activity coordination
Typically holds a bachelor's degree in education, recreation, or related fieldMay require similar certifications but less managerial experience
Works in community centers, schools, or religious organizationsWorks in similar environments, often under supervision

The Children Program Director focuses on strategic planning and program management, while the Children Activities Coordinator handles the execution of specific activities. Both roles require relevant certifications and work in similar settings, but the director has broader responsibilities and leadership duties.

How to become a children program director?

To become a children program director, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in education, child development, or a related field, along with experience working with children and in program management. Relevant skills include leadership, communication, and organizational abilities, and some positions may require certifications such as CPR or first aid. Gaining experience through volunteering or entry-level roles in youth programs can also be beneficial.

What job categories do people searching Children Program Director jobs in Elizabeth, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Children Program Director jobs in Elizabeth, NJ are:

Infographic showing various Children Program Director job openings in Elizabeth, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,698 per year, or $37.8 per hour.

Program Director After School/PS 386

Good Shepherd Services

Bronx, NY • On-site

$67K - $74K/yr

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago


Good Shepherd Services rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Title: Program Director
Site Name: Creston Campus: PS 386
Reports To: Vice President, Afterschool
Location: 125 E. 181st Street, Bronx, NY 10453
Hours: 35 Hours/Week; Exempt
Schedule: Monday - Friday, 10 am to 6 pm
Salary: $67,600�$74,880
Job Summary: The Program Director is responsible for the overall development, implementation, and supervision of the after-school program. They serve as the liaison to school staff and are responsible for carrying the culture and values of Good Shepherd Services.
Major Duties:
  • Provide overall leadership and supervision for the after-school program, including the summer camp.
  • Oversee the coordination of enrichment activities and curricula.
  • Ensure the implementation of parent engagement activities.
  • Provide daily crisis intervention with participants regarding personal and/or in-school issues that affect their behavior and attendance.
  • Develop linkages within the school and the community.
  • Liaise with the principal and designated staff of the school to align the activities with the school day.
  • Participate in appropriate school-based teams or committees.
  • Create linkages and feedback to programs within the school for student support and/or educational achievement.
  • Complete required narrative and statistical reports.
  • Monitor program expenditures.
  • Ensure the safety, security, and cleanliness of the site.
  • Ensure program's compliance with Department of Health, DYCD, and COA accreditation requirements.
  • Participate in weekly supervision.
  • Attend all staff meetings and required professional development activities.
  • Collaborate effectively with GSS Peer Programs and support departments (g., Development, Finance, Program Evaluation, Human Resources, IT, and Training)
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma required
  • 2 years of direct experience working with children less than 13 years old
  • 1 Year of Administrative Supervisory experience required
  • A New York State Children's Program Administrator Credential OR
    • A School-Age Child Care Credential OR
    • 2 years of college with 18 credits / an associate's degree in child development, Elementary Education, Physical Education, Recreation or a related field.
  • Must have excellent organizational, budgeting, oral and written communication, and networking skills.
  • Must be proficient in MS Office Suite.
  • Must commit to work from a strength-based and/or youth development perspective.

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