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College Program Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

OCC Boy Scouts

Program Director

Orange, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

Program Director Reports to: Camping Director Status: Full Time, Exempt Benefits: Health insurance ... REQUIREMENTS: • Minimum 25 years of age • College degree in education, recreation, youth ...

Skanska USA

Program Director - SIS

Modesto, CA · On-site

Job Overview Skanska is searching for a dynamic Program Director. This is a great opportunity to ... Bachelors or Masters degree from an accredited college or university in Construction Management ...

Skanska USA

Program Director - SIS

Pasadena, CA

Job Overview Skanska is searching for a dynamic Program Director. This is a great opportunity to ... Bachelors or Masters degree from an accredited college or university in Construction Management ...

Skanska USA

Program Director - SIS

Modesto, CA

Job Overview Skanska is searching for a dynamic Program Director. This is a great opportunity to ... Bachelors or Masters degree from an accredited college or university in Construction Management ...

Westcare

Program Director

North Highlands, CA · On-site

$80K - $86K/yr

Provide clinical and administrative leadership and supervision to the program. * Function as a ... Graduation from an accredited four-year college with a degree in Addiction Counseling, Criminal ...

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All JobsCollege Program JobsCollege Program Director JobsCollege Program Director Jobs in California

College Program Director information

See California salary details

$29.1K

$77.2K

$135.2K

How much do college program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for college program director in California is $77,172.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $91,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between College Program Director vs College Academic Advisor?

AspectCollege Program DirectorCollege Academic Advisor
Required CredentialsBachelor’s degree; often master’s for leadership rolesBachelor’s degree in education, counseling, or related field
Work EnvironmentAdministrative offices, program planning settingsStudent services offices, one-on-one advising sessions
Employer & Industry UsageColleges, universities, educational institutionsColleges, universities, student support services
Primary FocusOverseeing academic programs and student success initiativesProviding academic guidance and support to students

The main difference is that College Program Directors focus on managing academic programs and strategic planning, while College Academic Advisors concentrate on guiding individual students through their academic journey. Both roles require relevant educational credentials and are integral to higher education institutions.

What does a college program director do?

A College Program Director oversees the planning, development, and administration of specific academic or co-curricular programs within a college or university. They are responsible for curriculum development, faculty coordination, student advising, budget management, and ensuring that their program meets institutional goals and accreditation standards. Program Directors often collaborate with other departments, address student concerns, and evaluate program effectiveness to drive continuous improvement.

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

To thrive as a College Program Director, you need expertise in academic administration, curriculum development, and higher education policies, often supported by a master's or doctoral degree in education or a related field. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), accreditation processes, and data analysis tools is typically required. Strong leadership, organizational, and interpersonal skills are essential for managing faculty, engaging students, and driving program improvements. These competencies ensure effective program oversight, academic quality, and positive stakeholder relationships within the college environment.

What qualifications do you need to be a college program director?

A college program director typically needs a bachelor's degree in education, administration, or a related field, with many roles preferring a master's degree or higher. Relevant experience in education, program management, or student services is often required, along with strong organizational and leadership skills. Certifications in project management or educational administration can be advantageous.

What are some common challenges faced by college program directors when managing multiple academic programs?

College Program Directors often balance a variety of responsibilities, including coordinating curricula, supporting faculty, and ensuring that programs meet accreditation standards. Managing multiple programs can lead to challenges such as allocating limited resources, keeping up with changing academic requirements, and addressing the diverse needs of students and staff. Successful directors develop strong organizational and communication skills, and frequently collaborate with department chairs, faculty, and administrative staff to ensure each program runs smoothly and achieves its goals.

How much does a college program director make?

The average salary for a college program director is around $60,000 to $85,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and the institution's size. Senior or specialized roles may earn higher, and some positions include benefits such as health insurance and professional development opportunities.

What are the most commonly searched types of College Program jobs in California?

The most popular types of College Program jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for College Program Director jobs?

Cities in California with the most College Program Director job openings:

College Program Director jobs near you

Program Director

Scouting America Orange County Council

Orange, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

Program Director


Reports to: Camping Director
Status: Full Time, Exempt
Benefits: Health insurance, paid vacation, and sick time
Supervises: Volunteers, Area Directors, and hourly instructors

Salary: $70,304.00, Exempt


MISSION:
The mission of Scouting America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.


GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
This position supports the mission and operations of Scouting America, Orange County Council, Ed Laird Scout Camp at the Irvine Ranch Outdoor Education Center, and Oso Lake Scout Camp. They are primarily responsible for the development, programming, staffing, delivery, and budget of high-quality programs. The Program Director should have a strong background in youth programming, camp operations, and Scouting America.


REQUIREMENTS:
Minimum 25 years of age
College degree in education, recreation, youth development, or relevant field is preferred. Degree required to become a commissioned professional.
Currently registered with or willing to be registered with Scouting America.
Hold a current BSA Camp Director and/or Program Director National Camping School certification or be able to earn and maintain certification within nine (9) months of hiring
Maintain minimum certification in Red Cross Adult and Pediatric First Aid, CPR, and
AED or similarly recognized training
Has or can obtain within 60 days required trainings for the California Childcare Provider licensure:
o Preventive Health and Safety Training for Childcare Providers (8 hours)
Pediatric CPR/First Aid course for Childcare Providers (8 hours)
American Camp Association Camp Director Certificate (preferred)
Minimum two (2) years management experience
Minimum two (2) seasons of camp experience


PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

  • Must be able to spend significant time outdoors
  • Ability to lift, carry, and balance 50 pounds
  • Ability to exert on a regular basis 25 pounds of force
  • Constantly able to bend and scoop, sit, and stand, possess hand-eye-foot coordination, and perform good manual dexterity.


WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Working in a camp environment includes providing customer service, solving problems, and cooperation with others, regardless of your title. It also requires a desire to develop and work with youth, which can occasionally lead to challenging interactions.


Scouting America, Orange County Council is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.

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