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Education Programs Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Community Programs Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$48K - $50K/yr

Community Programs Manager REPORTS TO: Associate Director of Engagement FLSA STATUS: Full-Time. ... This position also supports initiatives across the broader Education and Engagement portfolio ...

Manage the strategic relationship with vendor partners on assigned programs; tasks may include ... Education Bachelor's Degree Work Experience At least 2 years of business development, product ...

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Manage the strategic relationship with vendor partners on assigned programs; tasks may include ... Education Bachelor's Degree Work Experience At least 2 years of business development, product ...

New

Manage the strategic relationship with vendor partners on assigned programs; tasks may include ... Education Bachelor's Degree Work Experience At least 2 years of business development, product ...

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Education Programs Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$37.6K

$74.5K

$117.4K

How much do education programs manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for education programs manager in Chicago, IL is $74,456.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,700.00 and $86,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an education programs manager do?

An Education Programs Manager is responsible for designing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs within an organization. They often oversee curriculum development, manage program budgets, coordinate with staff and educators, and ensure that educational goals are met. This role also involves monitoring program effectiveness, making improvements based on feedback, and ensuring compliance with relevant standards and regulations. Education Programs Managers often work in schools, nonprofits, museums, or corporate training departments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an education programs manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Education Programs Manager, you need expertise in curriculum development, program evaluation, project management, and typically a degree in education or a related field. Familiarity with learning management systems (LMS), data analysis tools, and program accreditation standards is often required. Strong organizational, leadership, and interpersonal skills help in managing teams, collaborating with stakeholders, and ensuring program success. These skills and qualities are vital for designing effective educational initiatives, meeting organizational goals, and delivering impactful learning experiences.

What are some common challenges faced by an education programs manager, and how can they be addressed?

Education Programs Managers often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple projects simultaneously, meeting diverse stakeholder needs, and ensuring program effectiveness within budget constraints. Effective time management, clear communication, and strong collaboration with educators, administrators, and external partners are essential to overcoming these obstacles. Additionally, staying current with educational trends and utilizing data-driven decision-making can help improve program outcomes and adapt to changing needs.

What is the difference between Education Programs Manager vs Education Coordinator?

AspectEducation Programs ManagerEducation Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees the development, implementation, and management of educational programs, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.Assists in coordinating educational activities, supporting program delivery, and handling administrative tasks.
Required CredentialsBachelor’s degree in education, administration, or related field; experience in program management.Bachelor’s degree often preferred; experience in education or administrative support.
Work EnvironmentTypically in office settings, overseeing teams and programs.Often in educational settings, assisting with program activities and logistics.
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in schools, non-profits, and educational organizations for leadership roles.Common in schools and community programs for supporting roles.

The main difference is that Education Programs Managers lead and oversee entire educational programs, while Education Coordinators support and assist with program activities. The manager role involves strategic planning and management, whereas coordinators focus on execution and logistics.

What job categories do people searching Education Programs Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Education Programs Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Education Programs Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Education Programs Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Education Programs Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,456 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

Community Programs Manager

Chicago, IL • On-site

GOODMAN THEATRE
Performing Arts Companies • 201 - 500 employees

$48K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead the planning, implementation and strategic growth of community learning programs such as GeNarrations and ACTivation.

  • Manage program logistics, budgets, participant engagement, and program evaluation to support program development and growth.

  • Recruit, support, and oversee Teaching Artists and facilitators involved in the programs.


Job description

JOB TITLE: Community Programs Manager 

REPORTS TO: Associate Director of Engagement 

FLSA STATUS: Full-Time. Salary, Exempt 

COMPENSATION RATE: $48,000 – 50,000 annually  

LOCATION: 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago, IL 60601 (Hybrid Eligible) 

POSITION SUMMARY: The Community Programs Manager leads the implementation, development and strategic growth of key community learning programs within Goodman Theatre’s Education and Engagement department. They oversee program planning and administration, curriculum development, Teaching Artist management, participant engagement and program evaluation while identifying opportunities for continued growth and expansion. This position also supports initiatives across the broader Education and Engagement portfolio, collaborating with colleagues, Teaching Artists and community partners to deliver high-quality, accessible and engaging arts learning experiences. The ideal candidate is a passionate advocate for using the arts to build community and cultivate joy, a thoughtful systems thinker with strong organizational skills and an effective collaborator who builds meaningful relationships with diverse communities and stakeholders. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Lead the planning, implementation and strategic growth of GeNarrations, The Goodman’s storytelling and playwriting program for adults ages 55+, including classes, workshops, showcases and programming at community partner sites across Chicago.  

  • Develop and maintain GeNarrations curriculum and program resources.  

  • Recruit, onboard, schedule, manage and support the GeNarrations Teaching Artist cohort.  

  • Serve as the primary point of contact for GeNarrations participants and community partners.  

  • Lead the planning, curation, implementation and strategic growth of the Goodman’s ACTivation workshop series. 

  • Develop an annual calendar of adult focused arts learning opportunities aligned with Goodman productions, departmental priorities and audience interests.  

  • Identify, recruit, manage and support ACTivation Teaching Artists and facilitators.  

  • Manage the administration and logistics of assigned programs,  

  • program budgets, collect and assess program data, evaluate program impact and identify opportunities for new partnerships, program models, audiences and continued growth in collaboration with departmental leadership.  

  • Promote programs, coordinate resources and support department-wide initiatives, events, special projects and additional community engagement programming as needed.  

  • Other duties as assigned. 

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:  

  • 3-5 years of demonstrated experience in arts education, community engagement, arts administration or a similarly relevant field. 

  • Demonstrated ability to plan, implement and evaluate community-based arts learning programs and identify opportunities for program development and strategic growth.  

  • Experience developing or supporting arts learning curricula and managing, coaching and supporting Teaching Artists, facilitators or other contracted artists.  

  • Excellent interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to build and maintain meaningful relationships with participants, artists, community partners and colleagues across diverse communities and generations.  

  • Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple programs simultaneously, collaborate across departments, meet deadlines and set and manage priorities.  

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills and ability to communicate effectively with a broad range of internal and external constituencies.  

  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite, Tessitura and web-based applications and databases. Tessitura experience preferred but not required. Experience with program evaluation and data collection is preferred. 

  • Model Behavior and values consistent with The Goodman’s Community Agreements and furthering The Goodman’s IDEAA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Anti-Racism and Access) goals. 

BACKGROUND: 

Chicago’s theater since 1925, The Goodman is a not-for-profit arts and community organization in the heart of the Loop, distinguished by the excellence and scope of its artistic programming and community engagement. The theater’s artistic priorities include new play development (more than 150 world or American premieres), large scale musical theater works and reimagined classics. 

We at The Goodman believe that a diversity of people, ideas and cultures in our organization enriches both the art on stage and our civic engagement. In our workplace, we strive to reflect the communities we serve, and make space in which everyone is empowered to bring their full, authentic self to work. The Goodman values equity, diversity and inclusion and is committed to approaching our work through the practice of anti-racism. Learn more at GoodmanTheatre.org/Accountability 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: 

Goodman Theatre offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, paid vacation, sick leave, 401K & Parental Leave. 

The Goodman is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other legally protected status. By dedicating itself to three guiding principles—quality, diversity and community— The Goodman seeks to be the premier cultural organization in Chicago, providing productions and programs that make an essential contribution to the quality of life in our city. 

The Goodman is an inclusive and accessible employer. Successful candidates will have experience working with diverse groups of people and will demonstrate a deep commitment to advancing equity and inclusion at The Goodman. 

The Goodman uses E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires. 

HOW TO APPLY: 
Qualified individuals are invited to apply by uploading a resume and selecting the “Start Application” button on the right side of the page. On the next page, please attach a cover letter when prompted. Resume and cover letter required. No phone calls, please.