1

Director Of Program Management Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

This is a non-merit position with the Iowa Department of Transportation. Candidates must follow the ... As the Program Management Bureau Director, your duties will include, but are not limited to:

The faculty and staff of the Office of Professional Education (OPE) manage all aspects of the ... Previous direct leadership experience with undergraduate program administration. * Demonstrated ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Director Of Program Management information

See Iowa salary details

$30.1K

$102.4K

$171.9K

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

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of program management in Iowa is $102,431.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,800.00 and $109,400.00 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 popular job titles related to Director Of Program Management jobs in Iowa? For Director Of Program Management jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Director Of Program Management jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Director Of Program Management jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Director Of Program Management jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Director Of Program Management job openings:
Infographic showing various Director Of Program Management job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,431 per year, or $49.2 per hour.
Program Management Bureau Director

Program Management Bureau Director

State of Iowa

Ames, IA • On-site

$115K - $163K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


State Of Iowa rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 82 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

40th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Description This is a non-merit position with the Iowa Department of Transportation. Candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section. Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise.

Reports To: Iowa DOT Transportation Development Division Director Position Type: Confidential, At-Will Shift Requirements: Day shift, Monday - Friday, 8 hours typical (may be flexed), mostly in-person, but telework is available, some overnight travel is required. Are you interested in playing a critical role in shaping transportation investments across the State of Iowa. Do you like to collaborate with a wide array of stakeholders to improve our program development and associated business processes.

Do you enjoy leading people and creating a positive work environment. If so, this position is for you. As the Program Management Bureau Director, your duties will include, but are not limited to: Working with the Iowa Transportation Commission and Iowa DOT Executive Leadership Team to oversee the development of the Iowa Transportation Improvement Program (5-year Program), which includes approximately $4.3 billion in multi-modal statewide transportation investments

Overseeing the development of the Federal Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP). Overseeing the effective management and administration of Federal highway funding to maximize the amount of Federal funding that can be utilized for transportation improvements. Participating as a key member of the Transportation Development Division's Senior Leadership Team.

Collaborating with staff in all six Districts and other DOT divisions to improve transportation programming processes and procedures. Managing and overseeing the Transportation Commission tours and public engagement for Commission Meetings. Providing overall leadership and direction for the Program Management Bureau.

Iowa Department of Transportation's Mission is Making Lives Better Through Transportation. To accomplish our Mission, the person selected for this position will demonstrate actions and behaviors guided by the Iowa Department of Transportation's five CORE values: Safety First, People Matter, Customer Focused, Servant Leadership, and Integrity Without Exception. Requirements Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.

As a State of Iowa employee, you will be eligible for the following benefits: Competitive pay and benefits package including health, dental, flexible spending, and life insurance Insurance benefits start the first month following 30 days of employment, and costs can be reviewed here. Opportunities for professional growth and development. Paid time off effective immediately - biweekly vacation, separate sick leave, accruals rollover on a yearly basis, and 9 paid holidays per year.

Iowa Public Employee Retirement System (IPERS) Retirement Package with employer match Optional 401A plan with employer contributions. Employee Discount Programs from a variety of vendors (vision, cellular, fitness, recreation, season passes, travel, counseling; legal, financial). We encourage you to learn more about the State of Iowa Employee Benefits and costs at the State of Iowa Employee Benefits Website.

You have the freedom to flourish in Iowa - Apply now. The Iowa Department of Transportation is an equal-opportunity employer. If you require a reasonable accommodation in completing any screening, interviewing, pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the selection process, please direct your request to the Affirmative Action & Equal Employment Opportunity (AA/EEO) Officer at: aa-eeo@iowadot.us

Reasonable accommodation, such as an interpreter, translator, written materials, modified equipment/devices, ADA access, etc. This does not include scheduling needs. The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees.

Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit http://www.e-verify.gov

Minimum Qualification Requirements Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification: 1) Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a degree in any field, and experience equal to six and one-half years of full-time management-level work in finance, human resources, engineering, law, data processing, or program research or evaluation. 2) Ten and one-half years of full-time management-level work experience in finance, human resources, engineering, law, data processing, or program research or evaluation. 3) All of the following (a and b): a.

Six and one-half years of full-time management-level work experience in finance, human resources, engineering, law, data processing, or program research or evaluation; and b. A combination of a total of four years of education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience. Graduation from the Iowa Certified Public Manager Program is also equivalent to one year of full-time experience or education.

4) All of the following (a, b, and c): a. Four and one-half years of full-time management-level work experience in finance, human resources, engineering, law, regulation, data processing, or program research or evaluation; and b. A combination of a total of four years of education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience; and c.

A combination of a total of two years of graduate-level education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where twenty-four semester hours of accredited graduate college or university course work in a public-service-related area (e.g., public or business administration, social work, law, education, engineering) equals one year of full-time experience. Graduation from the Iowa Certified Public Manager Program is also equivalent to one year of full-time experience or education. 5) Current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes two years of full-time work as a Public Service Manager 1

For additional information, please click on this Job Class Description - 04251


What State Of Iowa employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


State of Iowa logo

About State of Iowa

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Iowa is not a company but the governmental structure of the U.S. state of Iowa, stationed in the capital city, Des Moines. The official website, iowa.gov, is a platform dedicated to providing information and services related to the state's governance. As a governmental establishment, the State of Iowa's 'industry' primarily involves social governance, policy-making, and public administration, overseeing sectors like education, health, transportation, agriculture, and other public services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1939