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Entry Level Program Management Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Operations Program Managers

Campus, IL · On-site +1

$60K/yr

  • Retirement

Details Open Date 06/30/2026 Requisition Number PRN45520B Job Title Operations Program Managers Working Title Program Managers Career Progression Track P00 Track Level P1 - Entry Level Pro FLSA Code ...

Operations Program Managers

Campus, IL · On-site +1

$60K/yr

  • Retirement

Details Open Date 06/30/2026 Requisition Number PRN45520B Job Title Operations Program Managers Working Title Program Managers Career Progression Track P00 Track Level P1 - Entry Level Pro FLSA Code ...

Entry Level Account Manager

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$43K - $52K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity to start a career in account management with a company that values ... Comprehensive training and professional development programs * BlueCross BlueShield Available Join ...

This is an exciting opportunity to start a career in account management with a company that values ... Comprehensive training and professional development programs * BlueCross BlueShield Available Join ...

This is an exciting opportunity to start a career in account management with a company that values ... Comprehensive training and professional development programs * BlueCross BlueShield Available Join ...

Entry Level Account Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$45K - $54K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity to start a career in account management with a company that values ... Comprehensive training and professional development programs * BlueCross BlueShield Available Join ...

Entry Level Account Manager

Naperville, IL · On-site

$43K - $52K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity to start a career in account management with a company that values ... Comprehensive training and professional development programs * BlueCross BlueShield Available Join ...

Entry Level Account Manager

Chicago, IL

$45K - $54K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity to start a career in account management with a company that values ... Comprehensive training and professional development programs * BlueCross BlueShield Available Join ...

Entry Level Account Manager

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$43K - $52K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity to start a career in account management with a company that values ... Comprehensive training and professional development programs * BlueCross BlueShield Available Join ...

Entry Level Account Manager

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$43K - $52K/yr

Leadership, coaching, or team management experience is a plus. * A positive attitude and a sense of ... Comprehensive training and professional development programs * BlueCross BlueShield Available Join ...

Leadership, coaching, or team management experience is a plus. * A positive attitude and a sense of ... Comprehensive training and professional development programs * BlueCross BlueShield Available Join ...

Entry Level Account Manager

Naperville, IL · On-site

$43K - $52K/yr

Leadership, coaching, or team management experience is a plus. * A positive attitude and a sense of ... Comprehensive training and professional development programs * BlueCross BlueShield Available Join ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Program Management information

See Illinois salary details

$36.3K

$95.7K

$167.2K

How much do entry level program management jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level program management in Illinois is $95,728.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,600.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get into entry level program management with no experience?

Entry level program management roles often require strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills. Candidates can gain relevant experience through internships, volunteering, or project management certifications like CAPM or PMP, and should highlight transferable skills from other roles or academic projects in their applications.

What is the difference between Entry Level Program Management vs Project Coordinator?

AspectEntry Level Program ManagementProject Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree often required; certifications like CAPM or PMP beneficialBachelor's degree often required; certifications like CAPM helpful
Work EnvironmentCollaborates across multiple projects and teams, strategic focusSupports specific projects, task-oriented, operational focus
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in various industries including tech, finance, healthcareCommon in corporate, construction, IT sectors

Entry Level Program Management involves overseeing multiple projects, focusing on strategic coordination and stakeholder communication. In contrast, Project Coordinators handle specific project tasks, ensuring timely completion. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in scope and responsibilities, with program managers having a broader, strategic role and project coordinators focusing on operational support.

What does an entry level program management make?

Entry-level program managers typically earn a salary ranging from $50,000 to $70,000 annually, depending on the industry and location. They often have a bachelor's degree and may use project management tools like Microsoft Project or Jira to coordinate tasks and timelines.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level program managers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level program managers often encounter challenges such as balancing multiple priorities, adapting to fast-paced environments, and coordinating communication among diverse teams. To overcome these hurdles, it's helpful to develop strong organizational skills, seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, and utilize project management tools effectively. Building relationships across departments and proactively clarifying expectations with stakeholders can also facilitate smoother collaboration and project execution.

What is entry level program management?

Entry level program management jobs are positions designed for individuals who are just starting their careers in managing projects or programs within an organization. These roles typically involve supporting senior program managers, coordinating tasks, tracking project progress, and communicating with different teams to ensure projects stay on schedule and within budget. While prior experience may be limited, strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential. These positions provide a foundation for advancing into higher-level program or project management roles over time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level program manager?

To thrive as an Entry Level Program Manager, you typically need a bachelor's degree in business, management, or a related field along with foundational skills in project coordination and organization. Familiarity with project management software like Microsoft Project, Asana, or Trello and an understanding of basic project management methodologies are commonly required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills help distinguish candidates in collaborative and fast-paced environments. These abilities ensure effective project execution, stakeholder alignment, and the successful delivery of program objectives.

How to start a career in entry level program management?

To start a career in entry level program management, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in business, management, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level roles in project coordination helps develop skills in organization, communication, and tools like Microsoft Project or Jira. Certifications such as PMP or CAPM can also enhance prospects for advancement.

What are the most commonly searched types of Program Management jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Program Management jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Program Management jobs in Illinois?

For Entry Level Program Management jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Program Management jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Program Management jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Entry Level Program Management jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Entry Level Program Management job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Program Management job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,728 per year, or $46 per hour.

Operations Program Managers

University of Utah

Campus, IL • On-site, Remote

$60K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 23 days ago


University Of Utah rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 159 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

385th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Details
Open Date 06/30/2026 Requisition Number PRN45520B Job Title Operations Program Managers Working Title Program Managers Career Progression Track P00 Track Level P1 - Entry Level Pro FLSA Code Administrative Patient Sensitive Job Code? No Standard Hours per Week 40 Full Time or Part Time? Full Time Shift Day Work Schedule Summary
Standard hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Occasional weekend and evening work is required during active international programs.
VP Area Academic Affairs Department 01687 - BUSINESS SCHOLARS Location Campus City Salt Lake City, UT Type of Recruitment External Posting Pay Rate Range $60,000 Close Date 08/15/2026 Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time) Job Summary
The Program Manager at Eccles Global plays a pivotal role in developing and managing international study abroad programs, fostering a vibrant global learning environment for our students. This is not a work-from-home or hybrid position. International travel is a required and essential function and occurs at the director's discretion. This position reports to the Director of Eccles Global.
Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu
The department may choose to hire at any of the below job levels and associated pay rates based on their business need and budget.
Responsibilities
  • Work with the Director of Eccles Global and stakeholders across the university, such as academic departments, faculty, and the Dean's office, to develop, implement, evaluate, and assess new global opportunities for our students.
  • Develop and implement program assessment and continuous improvement processes.
  • Serve as a liaison with key stakeholders, including the office of Learning Abroad, partners, and affiliates.
  • Guide students through program selection and the application process through individual meetings and information sessions.
  • Review applications and make or recommend admissions decisions, including managing wait lists.
  • Design and lead pre-departure and re-entry sessions covering academic, cultural, and logistical preparation.
  • Navigate difficult situations with parents, faculty, and stakeholders with tact and discretion, including the confidence to say no and hold firm when necessary.
  • Partner with program and Eccles leadership and third-party vendors to build and manage fiscally responsible programs, including coordinating logistics such as flights, housing, ground transportation, and related contracts.
  • Assist students with visa processing and related travel documentation as needed.
  • Recruit students for Eccles Global programs.
  • Engage in international travel to vet locations and support programs on-site, including emergency and well-being support. 
  • The Program Manager is fully responsible for program execution and on-the-ground problem solving, including long days and on-call availability.
  • Leverage AI tools to draft communications, synthesize research, analyze assessment data, and streamline workflows.
Minimum Qualifications
EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).

Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:

Operations Program Manager, I: Requires a bachelor's (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience or a master's (or equivalency) degree.
Preferences
  • Fluency with AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Perplexity) and a demonstrated ability to integrate AI into daily work, including the judgment to evaluate and verify AI-generated output.
  • Experience studying, living, or working abroad.
  • Proficiency in a second language is a plus.
  • Experience planning and coordinating group travel, events, or complex logistics.
  • Experience supporting program budgets and planning.
Type Benefited Staff Special Instructions Summary Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems ("URS"). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS' post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans' preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran's status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator's office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah NonDiscrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu

https://publicsafety.utah.edu/safetyreport/
This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.

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About University of Utah

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Utah is the state’s flagship institution of higher education, with 18 schools and colleges, more than 100 undergraduate majors and graduate programs, and an enrollment of more than 38,000 students. It is a member of the Association of American Universities—an invitation-only, prestigious group of 71 leading research institutions. The U is advancing a new national model for higher education that delivers societal impact through education, research, health care, and community service, while making social, economic, and cultural contributions that improve lives across Utah and around the world.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Salt Lake City, UT, US

Year founded

1850