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Director Of Program Development Jobs in California

Hope The Mission

$80K - $100K/yr

It oversees internal auditing systems, compliance policy development, and data infrastructure that ... The Director of Program Compliance does not simply track whether requirements are met. This role ...

ATUM

Senior Director of Program Management

Newark, CA · On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

Senior Director of Program Management | ATUM ATUM is a leader in cell line development, gene synthesis, and protein engineering. We are seeking a strategic Director of Program Management to spearhead ...

Hope The Mission

$80K - $100K/yr

It oversees internal auditing systems, compliance policy development, and data infrastructure that ... The Director of Program Compliance does not simply track whether requirements are met. This role ...

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Director Of Program Development information

See California salary details

$29.1K

$77.2K

$135.2K

How much do director of program development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of program development 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 does a director of program development do?

A director of program development oversees the planning, design, and implementation of programs within an organization. They coordinate teams, develop strategies, manage budgets, and ensure programs meet organizational goals and standards. Strong leadership, project management skills, and knowledge of industry best practices are essential for this role.

What are the typical challenges a Director of Program Development faces when launching new initiatives within an organization?

Directors of Program Development often encounter challenges such as aligning new initiatives with the organization's strategic goals, securing stakeholder buy-in, and managing cross-functional teams with varying priorities. Navigating budget constraints, adapting to shifting market demands, and ensuring programs are both scalable and sustainable are also common hurdles. Successful directors leverage strong communication, project management, and analytical skills to address these challenges and drive impactful results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director Of Program Development, and why are they important?

To excel as a Director Of Program Development, you need expertise in program management, strategic planning, and budget oversight, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with project management software, data analysis tools, and compliance systems is typically required. Outstanding leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills distinguish top performers in this role. These abilities are crucial for successfully designing, implementing, and scaling programs that align with organizational goals.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-level executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite executives often earn $500,000 or more annually. Additionally, specialized roles like certain surgeons, investment bankers, and successful entrepreneurs can reach or exceed this income level, especially with bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing. For a Director of Program Development, reaching this salary typically requires extensive experience, leadership in large organizations, and often performance-based incentives.

What is the difference between Director Of Program Development vs Program Manager?

AspectDirector Of Program DevelopmentProgram Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple projects, develops strategic program plans, manages teams, and aligns programs with organizational goals.Manages individual projects or programs, coordinates resources, and ensures project deliverables meet objectives.
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree often in business, management, or related field; advanced degrees or certifications like PMP are common.Bachelor's degree in a relevant field; PMP or similar certifications are frequently preferred.
Work EnvironmentTypically in corporate, nonprofit, or government settings, involving strategic planning and leadership.Involves project coordination within similar environments, focusing on execution and delivery.

The main difference between a Director Of Program Development and a Program Manager lies in scope and strategic focus. The Director oversees multiple programs and aligns them with organizational goals, while the Program Manager handles specific projects within those programs. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the Director's role is more strategic and leadership-oriented.

How much do program directors make in the US?

Program directors in the US typically earn an average salary ranging from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on the industry, experience, and location. Senior or specialized program directors may earn higher salaries, especially in large organizations or competitive sectors.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

In media, roles such as senior producers, media executives, and content directors often earn $150,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, leadership skills, and industry connections. Positions in large organizations or those overseeing multiple projects tend to have higher compensation, often requiring advanced degrees or specialized skills in management, editing, or digital platforms.
What are popular job titles related to Director Of Program Development jobs in California? For Director Of Program Development jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Director Of Program Development jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Director Of Program Development jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Director Of Program Development jobs? Cities in California with the most Director Of Program Development job openings:
Director Of Program Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Of Program Development job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,172 per year, or $37.1 per hour.
Director of Program Management

Director of Program Management

Rock West Composites

San Diego, CA • On-site

$150K - $210K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Rock West Composites is seeking a Segment Director of Programs to lead program execution and customer success across a business segment serving space programs.
This role provides strategic leadership for a team of Program Managers while owning segment performance across customer satisfaction, program execution, financial performance, and business growth. Working closely with Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, Finance, and Executive Leadership, you'll ensure programs are delivered on schedule, within budget, and aligned with customer and business objectives.
This is a highly visible leadership role for someone who thrives on building teams, developing customer relationships, driving operational excellence, and growing a business.
Position Summary:
The Director of Program Management provides strategic leadership for all program management activities within an assigned Business Segment, overseeing a team of Program Managers and ensuring successful execution of customer programs. This role is responsible for delivering programs that meet customer and business objectives related to scope, cost, schedule, quality, and technical performance while driving customer satisfaction, contract compliance, and operational excellence. The Director is accountable for segment financial performance, including forecasting, budgeting, resource planning, and profitability, while establishing program management best practices that support business growth and organizational objectives.
What you'll own:
  • Overall performance and profitability (P&L) of an assigned business segment
  • Leadership and development of the Program Management organization
  • Customer relationships, contract execution, and scope management
  • Program execution across cost, schedule, quality, and technical performance
  • Resource planning, forecasting, and business growth initiatives
  • Continuous improvement of program management processes and best practices

Essential Functions:
Strategic Program Leadership
  • Provide executive oversight of customer programs from proposal through production and delivery.
  • Ensure programs achieve customer and business objectives for scope, cost, schedule, quality, and technical performance.
  • Establish program priorities and allocate resources to support business objectives.
  • Develop, implement, and enforce program management policies, procedures, and best practices.
  • Provide technical guidance and executive support to critical programs as needed

Customer & Business Management
  • Drive growth within existing customer accounts while supporting new business opportunities.
  • Own contract scope management across the business segment.
  • Guide customer engagement activities performed by Program Managers to ensure alignment with contractual commitments and business objectives.
  • Partner with customers and internal stakeholders to resolve issues, negotiate changes, and ensure long-term customer success.
  • Evaluate outsourcing opportunities and coordinate external resources to meet program cost, schedule, and technical requirements.

Financial & Operations Leadership
  • Own segment Profit & Loss (P&L) performance and achievement of financial objectives.
  • Lead forecasting activities including revenue, bookings, staffing, hiring, capital expenditures (CAPEX), IRAD investments, and operational capacity.
  • Monitor program financial performance and monthly job costs, implementing corrective actions when necessary.
  • Create functional strategies and operational plans that support enterprise growth and profitability.

People Leadership
  • Lead, coach, and develop a team of Program Managers through hiring, mentoring, performance management, and succession planning.
  • Assign Program Managers to customer accounts and programs based on business priorities and organizational capacity.
  • Define roles, responsibilities, and departmental objectives while fostering accountability and continuous improvement.
  • Build and maintain a collaborative, high-performing Program Management organization.

Non-Essential Functions:
  • Manages individual programs and other duties as assigned

What You Bring:
Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Materials Science, or related technical discipline; or equivalent experience in advanced manufacturing.
  • 10+ years of experience leading complex aerospace, defense, composites, or advanced manufacturing programs.
  • 5+ years of leadership experience managing Program Managers or technical organizations.
  • Proven success managing customer programs, financial performance, and organizational growth.

Technical & Business Expertise
  • Strong understanding of manufacturing, engineering, product development, and program execution.
  • Experience managing program budgets, forecasting, P&L, and strategic planning.
  • Advanced knowledge of composite materials, metallics, coatings, bonding, product development, testing, or related technologies preferred.
  • Strong understanding of customer contracts, scope management, and business operations.

Leadership & Professional Skills
  • Strategic thinker with exceptional business acumen and decision-making abilities.
  • Proven ability to build, develop, and lead high-performing teams.
  • Strong customer relationship management and negotiation skills.
  • Excellent communication and cross-functional leadership abilities.
  • Demonstrated ability to drive operational excellence, business growth, and continuous improvement.

Compensation & Benefits
  • Salary Range: $150,000 - $210,000 (based on experience and skillset)
  • 100% Employer-Paid Medical & Dental
  • Annual Bonus Program
  • 401(k) with 5% Match
  • Employee Stock Option Program
  • 9/80 Work Schedule (every other Friday off)
  • 8 Paid Holidays + Generous PTO (up to 4 weeks after 5 years)
  • $2,500 Tuition Reimbursement

Equal Opportunity Employer
Rock West Composites is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of the company to provide equal opportunity for all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, ancestry, gender, pregnancy, sex, sexual orientation, transitioning status, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, medical condition, mental disability, physical disability, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law. EEO is the law. We also prohibit compensation discrimination under all applicable laws. Certain positions require meeting the U.S. Person definition in 22 CFR 120.62.
ITAR Requirement
To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder) as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the company's immigration sponsorship now or in the future. Rock West Composites will not offer immigration sponsorship for this position. Rock West Composites will not seek an export authorization for this role. Rock West Composites maintains a Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace. Depending on state law and the nature of the position, candidates who receive a conditional offer of employment may be required to complete a drug screening. Rock West Composites may also conduct drug and alcohol testing based on reasonable suspicion, post-incident, or for safety-sensitive positions as permitted by law.
Accommodation Notice
If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process, or are limited in the ability or unable to access or use this online application process and need an alternative method for applying, you may contact 858-537-6260.

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