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Program Development Manager Jobs in San Jose, CA

Experience in program management and familiar with product development process. * The personal drive to "self-start" and work independently with minimal direction. * Excellent time management ...

Business Development Manager

Fremont, CA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Experience in program management and familiar with product development process. * The personal drive to "self-start" and work independently with minimal direction. * Excellent time management ...

Experience in program management and familiar with product development process. * The personal drive to "self-start" and work independently with minimal direction. * Excellent time management ...

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Showing results 1-20

Program Development Manager information

See San Jose, CA salary details

$37.5K

$140.7K

$234.4K

How much do program development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for program development manager in San Jose, CA is $140,708.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,900.00 and $167,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Program Development Manager vs Project Manager?

AspectProgram Development ManagerProject Manager
Primary FocusOversees multiple related projects to achieve strategic goalsManages individual projects to meet specific objectives
ResponsibilitiesDevelops program strategies, coordinates projects, manages stakeholdersPlans, executes, and closes projects within scope, time, and budget
CredentialsOften requires a PMP or similar certification, relevant experienceTypically requires PMP or CAPM certification, project management experience
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, cross-project coordination, stakeholder communicationProject planning, team management, task execution

The Program Development Manager focuses on overseeing multiple projects aligned with strategic goals, while the Project Manager manages individual projects. Both roles require project management certifications and involve coordinating teams, but the Program Development Manager has a broader, strategic scope.

What pays more, a project manager or a program development manager?

Generally, a program development manager tends to earn a higher salary than a project manager due to the broader scope and strategic responsibilities involved. Program managers often oversee multiple projects, require advanced skills in leadership and planning, and may hold certifications like PgMP, which can influence compensation. Salary differences can vary based on industry, experience, and location.

What is a program development manager?

A program development manager oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of multiple related projects within an organization to achieve strategic goals. They often manage teams, develop budgets, and ensure projects align with business objectives, requiring strong leadership, communication, and project management skills. Certification in project management methodologies like PMP can be beneficial.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a program development manager?

To thrive as a Program Development Manager, you need strong project management abilities, strategic planning skills, and a background in program design, often supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in business, nonprofit management, or a related field. Familiarity with project management software such as Asana or MS Project, and certifications like PMP, are commonly required for effective oversight. Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills help drive collaboration and motivate teams. These competencies are crucial for delivering successful programs that meet organizational goals and stakeholder expectations.

What are some common challenges faced by program development managers, and how can they address them?

Program Development Managers often encounter challenges such as aligning cross-functional teams, managing competing priorities, and ensuring that program goals meet both organizational and stakeholder needs. To address these challenges, effective communication, strong project management skills, and adaptability are essential. Regular check-ins with team members and stakeholders, clear goal-setting, and the use of project management tools can help streamline processes and keep programs on track. Building strong relationships across departments also facilitates smoother collaboration and problem-solving.
What are the most commonly searched types of Program Development jobs in San Jose, CA? The most popular types of Program Development jobs in San Jose, CA are:
What job categories do people searching Program Development Manager jobs in San Jose, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Program Development Manager jobs in San Jose, CA are:
What cities near San Jose, CA are hiring for Program Development Manager jobs? Cities near San Jose, CA with the most Program Development Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Program Development Manager job openings in San Jose, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,708 per year, or $67.6 per hour.

Public Programs Development Manager

The Tech Interactive

San Jose, CA • On-site

$80K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Who We Are
Since opening in 1998, The Tech Interactive has been an integral part of the San Francisco Bay area and is proud to serve families and young people through hands-on activities, experimental labs, and design challenge experiences.
Here at The Tech our mission is to inspire the innovator in everyone! We are a team of diverse individuals committed to creating learning experiences that empower young folks to innovate with creativity, curiosity, and compassion. We believe that technology is leading and transforming lives all over the world and we want to help develop the next generation of problem-solvers.
If you join our team, we know you will have a fulfilling and rewarding role focused on giving back to our community, especially those that have been historically marginalized and underserved.
Position Overview
The Public Programs Development Manager is primarily responsible for the management and execution of the annual programming strategy, including the development and maintenance of engineering and maker-related educational programs run in The Tech's science labs and on the gallery floor, as well as contributing toward advancing outreach initiatives through partnerships and programming. This role will also be responsible for the management and development of the program development team, ensuring program development is in alignment with the annual programming strategy. This exempt (salaried) role reports to the Senior Director, Interactive Learning Programs.
Responsibilities
  • Collaborate with the Senior Director of Interactive Learning Programs and Bio Programs Manager to develop the annual programming strategy, including but not limited to seasonal programs and events, exhibit and IMAX tie-ins, and ongoing pop-up and hands-on programming throughout the museum and at offsite programming events.
  • Develop, prototype, and execute innovative and engaging hands-on, design-based STEAM learning programs and activities for diverse audiences.
  • Oversee and manage the program development team, including but not limited to ongoing skill development and mentorship, performance reviews, and project assignments.
  • Develop metrics and evaluation frameworks to measure program impact, collaborate with Bio Programs Manager to implement observation tools for Interactive Learning Programs.
  • Conduct needs assessments and evaluate emerging trends to inform program development within the Tech's educational programs, including science lab programs and other facilitated experiences.
  • Participate in ongoing professional development training and staff meetings, generally taking place outside normal shift hours.
  • Act as Manager on Duty (MOD) as scheduled.
  • Complete additional related tasks or duties as assigned by the supervisor/manager.

Requirements and Skills
  • B.S. in Engineering, Physical Science, or Education.
  • Strong ability to evaluate and coach staff, management experience is a plus.
  • 2-5 years experience developing and designing hands-on, interactive STEM programs or experiences geared towards diverse youth audiences.
  • 2-5 year experience in engaging with and communicating technical/scientific topics to diverse groups with varying levels of exposure to and knowledge of the subject.
  • Flexibility to adapt in a constantly changing environment and when working with a constantly changing audience.

Working Conditions and Schedule
  • This is an on-site role with the possibility of flexibility for working some days at an alternative work location. Flexibility will vary depending on the needs of the job.
  • Availability will vary based on The Tech's operating schedule, including weekends, nights, and offsite events.
  • Frequently move objects up to 50 pounds.

Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) at The Tech
Our success is dependent on building teams that include people from different backgrounds and experiences who challenge each other's assumptions with fresh perspectives. To that end, we look for a diverse pool of applicants including but not limited to those from historically marginalized groups - women, people with disabilities, people of color, people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and/or nonconforming, veterans, and people from different socioeconomic backgrounds.
The Tech will provide an equal opportunity in recruitment and employment to all individuals and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, legally protected medical condition, military or veteran status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law. Any applicant with a disability may contact The Tech Interactive to arrange for accommodations. Please contact the Tech at careers@thetech.org or call (408) 795-6248.
The pay range for this role is:
80,000 - 87,000 USD per year (The Tech Interactive)