ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Director Of Program Management Jobs in California

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 ...

Onto

Senior Director of Program Management

Milpitas, CA · Hybrid

$135K - $135K/yr

Reporting to the VP of IT, this role will be responsible for driving the successful delivery of our most critical IT programs and projects. You will establish and manage program governance ...

Logos Space

Head of Program Management

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$220K - $310K/yr

As the leader of Program Management, you will own the execution of complex, cross-functional initiatives that span Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, RF, Software, Manufacturing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOf Program Management JobsDirector Of Program Management JobsDirector Of Program Management Jobs in California

Director Of Program Management information

See California salary details

$31.6K

$107.6K

$180.6K

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

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of program management in California is $107,627.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,900.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Director of Program Management Do?

A director of program management implements strategic programs, monitors program performance, and evaluates project leaders for efficiency and accomplishments. As a director of program management, your job duties include overseeing the program management team, coordinating related projects, and finding solutions that improve performance at all levels within the company. To pursue a career as director of program management, you need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in project management, change management, business administration, or a related field, along with industry-specific knowledge and experience. Most employers also look for candidates with proven success in prior program management positions and demonstrated leadership skills.

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

AspectDirector Of Program ManagementProgram Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple projects and programs, aligns strategic goals, manages teamsManages individual projects, coordinates tasks, ensures project delivery
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master’s in Business, Management, or related field; PMP or PgMP certifications often preferredBachelor's degree; PMP or similar certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, leadership meetings, cross-department collaborationProject planning, stakeholder communication, team coordination
Industry UsageCommon in large organizations, tech, finance, healthcareWidely used across industries for project execution

The main difference between a Director Of Program Management and a Program Manager lies in scope and leadership. Directors oversee multiple programs and set strategic direction, while Program Managers focus on executing individual projects. Both roles require strong project management skills and certifications, but Directors typically have more leadership responsibilities and strategic influence.

How does a Director of Program Management typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure program success?

A Director of Program Management works closely with various teams, such as product development, marketing, finance, and operations, to align program objectives and execution. They facilitate regular meetings to ensure transparency, address potential roadblocks, and foster a shared understanding of project goals. Effective Directors leverage their leadership and communication skills to build consensus and keep teams focused on deliverables, often acting as a bridge between executive leadership and project teams. This collaborative approach is essential for navigating complex projects and achieving organizational goals.

What pays more, a project manager or a program manager?

Generally, a program manager earns a higher salary than a project manager because they oversee multiple projects and have broader strategic responsibilities. The difference in pay can vary based on industry, experience, and organization size, but program management roles typically require advanced skills and certifications like PMP or PgMP. In the context of a Director of Program Management, compensation tends to be higher due to leadership and strategic scope.

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

To thrive as a Director of Program Management, you need strong leadership, strategic planning, and project management expertise, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree and extensive experience managing complex programs. Familiarity with project management tools (like MS Project, Jira, or Asana), portfolio management systems, and certifications such as PMP or PgMP are often required. Exceptional communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving skills set top candidates apart in this role. These capabilities are crucial for aligning cross-functional teams, achieving program objectives, and driving organizational success.

How much does a director of program management make in the US?

The average salary for a director of program management in the US ranges from $120,000 to $180,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior roles with additional responsibilities or in high-demand sectors can earn higher compensation, often including bonuses and stock options.

What does a director of program management do?

A director of program management oversees multiple projects within an organization, ensuring they align with strategic goals. They coordinate teams, manage budgets, develop schedules, and communicate progress to stakeholders, often using project management tools like MS Project or Jira. Strong leadership, planning, and communication skills are essential for this role.

What is the average salary for a programme manager?

The average salary for a program manager varies depending on experience, industry, and location, but typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually. Senior program managers or those in high-demand sectors can earn higher compensation, often including bonuses and benefits. Skills in project management tools and certifications like PMP can influence salary levels.
More about Director Of Program Management jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Of Program Management jobs in California? The most popular types of Of Program Management jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Director Of Program Management jobs in California? For Director Of Program Management jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Director Of Program Management jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Director Of Program Management jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Director Of Program Management jobs? Cities in California with the most Director Of Program Management job openings:
Director Of Program Management jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Of Program Management job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,627 per year, or $51.7 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 27 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)
  • Paid Holidays + Generous PTO
  • $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.

Apply