ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Director Special Project Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

The Special Projects Coordinator provides essential support for the successful execution of unique ... This individual works closely with student health educator and associate director and student ...

DCCM

Director, Special Districts

Houston, TX · On-site

Position Overview DCCM is seeking an experienced Director, Special Districts to serve as the ... This is fundamentally a district engineer service role -- not a project management role. The ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSpecial Project JobsDirector Special Project Jobs

Director Special Project information

See salary details

$44K

$109.6K

$197.5K

How much do director special project jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for director special project in the United States is $109,563.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $144,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Director of Special Projects typically collaborate with other departments to ensure project success?

A Director of Special Projects often works cross-functionally, partnering with leaders from departments such as operations, finance, marketing, and IT to align project objectives with overall organizational goals. This role requires excellent communication and stakeholder management skills to coordinate resources, manage timelines, and resolve any interdepartmental challenges that may arise. Regular meetings and progress updates are common, ensuring all parties are informed and engaged. Successful Directors foster a collaborative environment, leveraging the expertise of diverse teams to drive innovative solutions and deliver impactful results.

What is the difference between Director Special Project vs Project Manager?

AspectDirector Special ProjectProject Manager
CredentialsBachelor's or master's degree, industry-specific certificationsBachelor's degree, PMP or similar certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentStrategic oversight, executive-level collaborationDay-to-day project execution, team management
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in corporate, government, and non-profit sectors for high-level projectsCommon across industries for managing specific projects

The main difference is that the Director Special Project focuses on strategic planning and oversight of high-level initiatives, while the Project Manager handles the operational aspects of project execution. The Director typically works at an executive level, guiding project goals, whereas the Project Manager manages teams and timelines to deliver project outcomes.

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

To thrive as a Director of Special Projects, you need expertise in project management, strategic planning, and cross-functional leadership, often supported by a relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree. Familiarity with project management tools (like Asana, Trello, or MS Project), data analysis software, and sometimes certifications such as PMP are typically required. Strong communication, adaptability, and problem-solving skills enable effective coordination across diverse teams and shifting priorities. These competencies ensure successful delivery of complex, high-impact projects aligned with organizational goals.

What does a Director of Special Projects do?

A Director of Special Projects is responsible for leading and managing high-priority initiatives within an organization that fall outside the scope of standard operations. This role often involves coordinating cross-functional teams, developing project plans, and ensuring projects align with the company’s strategic objectives. Directors of Special Projects may be tasked with launching new business ventures, overseeing organizational change, or managing time-sensitive assignments directly from senior leadership. Their work requires excellent problem-solving skills, adaptability, and strong communication to drive successful project outcomes.
More about Director Special Project jobs
What cities are hiring for Director Special Project jobs? Cities with the most Director Special Project job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Special Project jobs? The most popular types of Special Project jobs are:
What states have the most Director Special Project jobs? States with the most job openings for Director Special Project jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Director Special Project jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Director Special Project jobs are:
Director Special Project jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Special Project job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,563 per year, or $52.7 per hour.
Special Project Coordinator

Special Project Coordinator

The Pennsylvania State University

On-site, Remote

Part-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS

Summary:

The Special Projects Coordinator provides essential support for the successful execution of unique and strategic initiatives within the community health department. This individual works closely with student health educator and associate director and student affairs committee members to ensure projects stay on track, maintain efficient workflows, and achieve their intended outcomes.

Core Responsibilities:

  • Administrative Support: Schedule meetings, manage calendars, prepare presentations and reports, coordinate travel arrangements, and other logistical tasks as needed.
  • Resource Coordination: Assist in the procurement of resources (materials, technology, external vendors) needed for project success.
  • Communication & Documentation: Maintain clear project documentation, including meeting minutes, action items, and project status updates. Act as a communication liaison between project team members and stakeholders.
  • Data Tracking & Analysis: Collect, organize, and analyze project-related data. Assist in the preparation of progress reports for management.
  • Process Improvement: Identify and recommend opportunities to streamline project workflows and enhance communication channels.

Qualifications:

  • Education/Experience: minimum an Associate degree in business, communications, or a related field. Two years of experience in an administrative or project support role preferred.
  • Organizational Skills: Exceptional attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.
  • Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to interact professionally with stakeholders at all levels.
  • Technology Proficiency: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and familiarity with project management tools a plus.
  • Adaptability: Comfortable working in a dynamic environment where priorities may shift.

Additional Desired Skills:

  • Event planning experience
  • Research skills

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster

PA State Labor Law Poster

Penn State Policies

Copyright Information

Hotlines

Pennsylvania State University logo

About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Pennsylvania State University Jobs

Apply