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Nursing Program Director Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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Residential Program Director

Aurora, CO · On-site

$63K - $66K/yr

Medical & Documentation Oversight 1. Collaborates with Nursing and Program Managers to ensure ... Recruits new Host Home Providers 1. Develops advertisements with Marketing Director. 2. Develops ...

Director of Nursing Summary: The Director of Nursing oversees the administration of nursing ... Nursing degree from accredited college preferred; graduation from approved RN program required * A ...

Director of Nursing Position Overview Are you a person who believes in providing great care? Do you ... Nursing degree from an accredited college preferred; graduation from an approved RN program ...

You care Director of Nursing Summary: The Director of Nursing oversees the administration of ... Nursing degree from accredited college preferred; graduation from approved RN program required * A ...

Director of Nursing

Denver, CO · On-site

$105K - $120K/yr

You care Director of Nursing Summary: The Director of Nursing oversees the administration of ... Nursing degree from accredited college preferred; graduation from approved RN program required * A ...

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Nursing Program Director information

See Colorado salary details

$38.9K

$98.3K

$168.8K

How much do nursing program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for nursing program director in Colorado is $98,276.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,600.00 and $115,700.00 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 training to prepare students for nursing careers.

Can an LPN be adon?

An LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) cannot typically become an Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) directly, as ADONs are usually registered nurses (RNs) with a higher level of education and experience. LPNs may pursue RN licensure through additional education to qualify for ADON roles, which require leadership skills and often involve overseeing nursing staff and ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations.

What are Nursing Program Directors?

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 is the highest paid position in nursing?

The highest paid position in nursing is typically a Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), who administers anesthesia and requires a master's degree and certification. They often work independently in surgical settings and earn significantly higher salaries than other nursing roles, reflecting advanced skills and responsibilities.

Can a DNP become a professor?

A Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) can qualify for faculty positions at nursing schools, especially when combined with teaching experience and a strong clinical background. However, many academic institutions prefer candidates with a PhD in Nursing or related research experience for professorship roles. The DNP is primarily a practice-focused degree, so additional research credentials may enhance eligibility for university-level teaching positions.

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 Colorado? The most popular types of Nursing Program jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Nursing Program Director jobs in Colorado? For Nursing Program Director jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Nursing Program Director jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Nursing Program Director jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Nursing Program Director jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Nursing Program Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Nursing Program Director job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,276 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Program Director

Health Solutions West

Grand Junction, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Health Solutions West is the Western slope’s largest behavioral health care organization, covering more than 23,000 square miles across 10 counties.  With over 250 employees in Western Colorado, you would be joining a mighty team of support and administrative staff, case managers, clinicians, physicians, nurses, and others in our efforts to improve the health and wellbeing of our community.

Position: Program Director


Benefits offered to Full-Time Employees:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Paid time off accrual and generous leave policy
  • 403(b) benefits with 6% company match

Position qualifications:

Master’s degree in a recognized mental health profession required; minimum five (5) years post graduate experience in a human services’ setting, such as a community mental health center, chemical dependency setting, or residential treatment facility; experience must include at least two (2) years administrative and/or supervisory experience.  Licensure in the State of Colorado required.

Job purpose:

Provides effective management and operation of Health Solutions West. service delivery systems.  Responsible for proper and efficient operation for all clinics in assigned County from a professional and clinical standpoint; recommends long and short-range policies and supervises the execution of such policy once adopted.  Responsible for program development using evidence-based practices.  Provides direct clinical services.  In the Rural/Resort regions, Program Directors manage sites that serve more than 450 clients annually.  

Knowledge, Skill & Ability (include materials and equipment directly used):

  • Ability to provide leadership both independently and as a member of management teams in decision making, implementation, and quality compliance.
  • Ability to effectively communicate program needs and services to individuals and groups.
  • Must have a thorough knowledge of management, mental health, and community relations.
  • Working knowledge of Windows based computer applications to include Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Outlook, and Internet access.
  • Ability to operate standard office equipment including calculator, copy machine, fax and multi-line telephone.
  • Interpersonal and communication skills to develop and maintain effective working relationships with all internal and external customers.
  • Ability to organize and prioritize workload in a sometimes-hectic environment with frequent interruptions.

Working Conditions/Physical Demands:  Employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.  Employee is frequently required to walk, sit, stand or kneel and occasionally required to climb or balance and stoop.  Must have ability to sit for longer periods of time at a computer. Employee must be able to travel between Health Solutions West sites or within the community. May be exposed to stressful situations that involve enraged, distraught and/or intoxicated individuals with possible mental disorders. Possible potential for exposure to communicable disease. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Must already be authorized to work in the US; sponsorships not available.