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Nursing Program Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Homestead Schools Inc

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Vocational Nursing Program Director

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$104K - $145K/yr

Assistant Director of Nursing for Torrance Campus Program: Vocational Nursing Education: Master's degree in Nursing, Nursing Education. Licensure: Current, unencumbered RN license for California ...

Homestead Schools Inc

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Vocational Nursing Program Director

Torrance, CA · On-site

$104K - $145K/yr

Vocational Nursing Program Director for Torrance Campus Program: Vocational Nursing Education: MUST HAVE Master's degree in Nursing, Nursing Education. Licensure: Current, unencumbered RN license for ...

New Solutions

Nursing Assistant Program Director

Irvine, CA · On-site

$81K - $107K/yr

Nursing Assistant Program Director We are looking for an Assistant Program Director to join our team. This position will work with and functions under the supervision of the Campus Program Director ...

New Solutions

Nursing Assistant Program Director

Irvine, CA · On-site

$81K - $107K/yr

Nursing Assistant Program Director We are looking for an Assistant Program Director to join our team. This position will work with and functions under the supervision of the Campus Program Director ...

twenty80.io

Assistant Program Director

Irvine, CA

$125K/yr

Working under the supervision of the Nursing Program Director, the Assistant Program Director will help ensure compliance with state nursing education standards, maintain high-quality academic and ...

Meraki7

Assistant Program Director

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

This position will work with and functions under the supervision of the Campus Program Director of the Vocational Nursing Program. * Assists the Director with planning, developing, managing, updating ...

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Nursing Program Director information

See California salary details

$36.5K

$92.2K

$158.4K

How much do nursing program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for nursing program director in California is $92,237.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $108,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a nursing program director do?

A nursing program director oversees the development, implementation, and evaluation of nursing education programs. They manage faculty, ensure curriculum compliance with accreditation standards, and coordinate clinical placements to prepare students for nursing practice.

What is a nursing program director?

Nursing Program Directors are senior administrators responsible for overseeing and managing nursing education programs at colleges, universities, or healthcare institutions. They develop curriculum, ensure compliance with accreditation standards, supervise faculty, and support student success. Nursing Program Directors also handle budgeting, staffing, and often represent their programs to external stakeholders. Their leadership is crucial to maintaining high educational standards and preparing students for nursing careers.

What are some common challenges faced by a nursing program director, and how can they be effectively managed?

Nursing Program Directors often encounter challenges such as balancing administrative responsibilities with the need to stay engaged in curriculum development and student support. Managing faculty workloads, ensuring accreditation standards are met, and keeping up with evolving healthcare practices can also be demanding. Effective management involves strong organizational skills, clear communication with faculty and administration, and ongoing professional development to stay current with industry trends. Building collaborative relationships within the institution and fostering a supportive team environment are key strategies to successfully navigate these challenges.

What qualifications do you need to be a nursing program director?

A nursing program director typically needs a registered nurse (RN) license, a master's degree in nursing or a related field, and extensive experience in nursing practice and education. Leadership skills, curriculum development knowledge, and often a doctoral degree or higher are also preferred for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nursing program director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nursing Program Director, you need advanced clinical knowledge, leadership experience, and typically a master's or doctoral degree in nursing or nursing education. Familiarity with accreditation standards, curriculum development software, and learning management systems is essential. Strong organizational, communication, and mentoring skills help foster faculty development and student success. These skills are vital for ensuring the quality and compliance of nursing programs and for guiding both faculty and students toward excellence.

What is the difference between Nursing Program Director vs Nursing Educator?

AspectNursing Program DirectorNursing Educator
CredentialsRN license, advanced degrees (e.g., MSN, DNP)RN license, often MSN or higher
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, overseeing nursing programsHospitals, colleges, or training settings, teaching students
Primary FocusProgram administration, curriculum oversight, accreditationTeaching, student assessment, clinical instruction
Employer & IndustryUniversities, colleges, nursing schoolsHospitals, colleges, vocational schools

The Nursing Program Director primarily manages nursing education programs, focusing on administration and accreditation, while the Nursing Educator concentrates on teaching and mentoring students. Both roles require nursing credentials and are vital in nursing education but differ in responsibilities and work settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nursing Program jobs in California? The most popular types of Nursing Program jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Nursing Program Director jobs in California? For Nursing Program Director jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Nursing Program Director jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Nursing Program Director jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Nursing Program Director jobs? Cities in California with the most Nursing Program Director job openings:
Nursing Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nursing Program Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,237 per year, or $44.3 per hour.

Program Director- Vocational Nursing Program

Great Bay Staffing Group

Alhambra, CA • On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Program Director - Vocational Nursing Program | Greater Los Angeles

We are seeking an accomplished and visionary Program Director to lead our Vocational Nursing Program in the vibrant Greater Los Angeles area. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced nursing education professional who is passionate about shaping the next generation of vocational nurses. The ideal candidate will bring proven leadership expertise, a commitment to academic excellence, and the ability to drive program innovation while maintaining full compliance with California state regulations and national nursing education standards.

Key Responsibilities
  • Direct and oversee all daily operations of the Vocational Nursing Program, ensuring the highest standards of academic excellence, program integrity, and student success
  • Design, develop, and implement innovative nursing curriculum that meets California Board of Vocational Nursing requirements and prepares students for NCLEX-PN licensure examination
  • Lead faculty recruitment, professional development, mentorship, and performance evaluation to maintain exceptional teaching quality and instructional standards
  • Monitor and analyze program outcomes, student retention rates, graduation rates, and NCLEX pass rates; implement data-driven improvements and strategic interventions
  • Ensure full compliance with accrediting bodies including BVNPT (Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians), ACEN, and other relevant nursing education regulatory agencies
  • Cultivate an inclusive, supportive, and collaborative learning environment that promotes diversity, equity, and student engagement
  • Build strategic partnerships with healthcare facilities, clinical sites, and community organizations to expand program resources, clinical placements, and student opportunities
  • Manage program budget, resource allocation, and strategic planning initiatives to support program growth and sustainability
Required Qualifications
  • Active California Registered Nurse (RN) license in good standing
  • Minimum three years of clinical experience as a registered nurse, with at least one year in nursing education, clinical instruction, or clinical supervision in a state-approved registered nursing or vocational/practical nursing program
  • Master's degree in Nursing (MSN), Nursing Education, or related healthcare field required
  • Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), PhD in Nursing, or EdD in Nursing Education strongly preferred
  • Comprehensive knowledge of vocational nursing education, California nursing regulations, and BVNPT requirements
  • Demonstrated experience in curriculum development, instructional design, and nursing program assessment
  • Proven track record in nursing program development, accreditation processes, and regulatory compliance
  • Alternative qualification: Minimum three years of experience in nursing administration or nursing education leadership within the last five years
  • Exceptional leadership, communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
  • Strong commitment to student success, faculty development, and educational innovation
Why This Is a Great Opportunity

This Program Director position offers the unique opportunity to shape the future of vocational nursing education in one of the nation's most dynamic healthcare markets. You will lead a respected program, mentor dedicated faculty, and make a lasting impact on students' lives and careers. This role provides:

  • Competitive Compensation: Annual salary range of $140,000 - $150,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications
  • Comprehensive Healthcare Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family
  • Retirement Security: Robust retirement savings plan with generous employer matching contributions
  • Professional Growth: Extensive professional development opportunities, conference attendance, and leadership training
  • Educational Support: Tuition assistance and reimbursement programs for continued education and advanced degrees
  • Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, sick leave, and holiday schedule
  • Leadership Impact: Autonomy to innovate, implement best practices, and build a nationally recognized vocational nursing program
About Greater Los Angeles

Greater Los Angeles offers an unparalleled quality of life in one of the world's most exciting metropolitan regions. Home to world-class healthcare systems, renowned medical centers, and diverse communities, Los Angeles provides endless professional networking opportunities and career growth potential. Enjoy year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, cultural diversity, exceptional dining, entertainment venues, professional sports, and outdoor recreation from mountains to coast. The region's robust healthcare industry and nursing education landscape make it an ideal location for nursing education professionals to advance their careers while enjoying an enviable Southern California lifestyle.

Apply Today

If you are a passionate nursing education leader ready to make a significant impact on vocational nursing education and student success, we want to hear from you. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply today and join our team in shaping the future of healthcare through exceptional nursing education. Take the next step in your nursing education leadership career and become our Program Director for Vocational Nursing!