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Program Development Specialist Jobs in Chicago, IL

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Program Development Specialist information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$37.6K

$105.9K

$119.1K

How much do program development specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for program development specialist in Chicago, IL is $105,919.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,500.00 and $117,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a program development specialist collaborate with other departments to ensure successful program implementation?

Program Development Specialists frequently work cross-functionally with teams such as marketing, finance, and operations to align program objectives and resources. They often facilitate meetings, gather feedback, and coordinate project timelines to ensure all stakeholders are informed and engaged throughout the development process. Effective collaboration helps to identify potential challenges early and leverage the expertise of various departments, resulting in smoother program rollouts and better outcomes. Strong communication and project management skills are essential for fostering these interdepartmental relationships.

What does a program development specialist do?

A Program Development Specialist is responsible for designing, implementing, and evaluating programs within an organization. They assess needs, develop program plans, coordinate resources, and monitor progress to ensure objectives are met. Their work often involves collaborating with stakeholders, analyzing data, and making recommendations for program improvement. This role is common in educational, nonprofit, and governmental organizations and requires strong organizational and communication skills.

What is the difference between Program Development Specialist vs Program Coordinator?

AspectProgram Development SpecialistProgram Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in related field, certifications in program management or development often preferredBachelor's degree, experience in administrative or program support roles
Work EnvironmentDesigning, planning, and developing programs, often in office settings or project sitesOverseeing program logistics, coordinating activities, and supporting implementation
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, government agencies, educational institutionsNonprofits, government, healthcare, educational institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in program creation and developmentLearning about program support and coordination tasks

The Program Development Specialist focuses on designing and developing new programs, requiring strategic planning skills and relevant certifications. In contrast, the Program Coordinator handles the day-to-day logistics and support for existing programs. Both roles are vital in program management but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a Program Development Specialist, you need expertise in program design, project management, and data analysis, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and experience in program evaluation. Familiarity with project management software (like Asana or Trello), data analysis tools (such as Excel or SPSS), and sometimes certifications in project management (e.g., PMP) are commonly required. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and the ability to collaborate across teams set top professionals apart in this role. These skills ensure effective development, implementation, and continuous improvement of programs to meet organizational goals.
What are popular job titles related to Program Development Specialist jobs in Chicago, IL? For Program Development Specialist jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Development Specialist jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Program Development Specialist jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Program Development Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Development Specialist job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 72% In-person, 14% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,919 per year, or $50.9 per hour.

Leadership Development Program Specialist

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois

Des Plaines, IL • On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI), is a leading not-for-profit organization providing healing, justice and wholeness to people and communities. For over 150 years, LSSI has made a difference in the lives of children and families, and we're still a strong, viable presence in the State of Illinois, continuing that commitment to making a difference.
LSSI is hiring a full-time Leadership Development Program Specialist. Responsible for executing comprehensive leadership development initiatives across various leader levels as well as coordinating program implementation, analyzing talent and HR data to refine offerings, and facilitating classroom and new employee orientation sessions. Also responsible for focusing on designing competency-based programs, coordinating program logistics, and ensuring effective communication through planning and execution phases.
Benefits and Perks:
LSSI is growing! Come be a part of this rewarding environment, and enjoy the knowledge that you're helping make a positive difference in the lives of others, as well as these career advantages:
  • On Demand Flexible Paydays for earned wages through an app called Dayforce Wallet.
  • Competitive salary based upon relevant education, experience, and licensure.
  • Salary $70,000-$80,000 Annually.
  • Opportunity for advancement.
  • Comprehensive benefits package for Full-Time employees includes healthcare insurance, up to 26 days of paid time off per calendar year, 11 paid holidays, sick time, 403(b) plan, Employee Assistance Program, and flexible hours.
  • The paid training you need to learn, grow, and succeed!

Essential Functions:
  • Coordinate and support the implementation of Leadership development programs e.g., leader onboarding, mentoring program, and leader rotational assignment program.
  • Analyze talent data (Openings, Exit Interviews, HRIS data, etc.) to evaluate program offerings and identify development opportunities.
  • Facilitate assigned leadership development courses and new employee orientation (NEO).
  • Evaluate course and program effectiveness using established frameworks, such as Kirkpatrick's levels, supporting leader onboarding with a focus on cultural integration, and fostering a positive learning environment.
  • Collaborate with staff to build support for initiatives, develop training materials, and ensure accurate tracking of participation and completion via the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Demonstrate professional, positive behavior and carry out responsibilities with integrity, treating clients, families, other LSSI workforce members, and collaborative organizations and/or individual in a dignified, respectful, honest, and fair manner.

Position Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in human resource management, talent development, organization development, or related field required.
  • Master's degree preferred.
  • Background check clearance required.
  • Associate Professional in Talent Development (APTD) or Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) preferred.
  • Minimum of four (4) years of experience in program, project, and stakeholder management.
  • Certification and experience incorporating and debriefing assessments preferred. (e.g. Gallup Strengths, FIRO-B, MBTI)
  • Highly skilled in developing and designing content and programs grounded in adult learning, experiential learning, and social learning theories.
  • Proficient in utilizing an LMS to track participation and measure program effectiveness.
  • Experienced in incorporating competency models to develop methods and techniques for defining learning and behavioral outcomes.
  • Demonstrated ability to assess quality and evaluate instructional content in relation to desired learning or behavioral outcomes.
  • Demonstrated ability to onboard and coach leaders for successful assimilation.
  • Demonstrated ability to apply knowledge of adult learning instructional methods and techniques for self-directed and action learning.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate in a clear, comprehensible manner, verbally and written required.
  • Excellent technical, project management, and presentation skills, including expertise using an LMS, instructional design authoring tools (e.g., Storyline), and Microsoft Office (e.g., Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, MS Project) along with other related software.
  • Valid driver's license, in good standing for the state of residency required.
  • Access to reliable transportation required.
  • Valid IL statutory minimum liability insurance coverage, bodily injury, and property damage required.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, pregnancy, any other characteristic protected by law.

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