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Program Director Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Direct Support Program Supervisor _2845

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Assists the Program Director in development of individual program plans; trains and monitors implementation of plans each day across all shifts. * Team Meetings: Attends and assists with routine ...

Direct Support Program Supervisor _2845

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$13 - $15.75/hr

Assists the Program Director in development of individual program plans; trains and monitors implementation of plans each day across all shifts. * Team Meetings: Attends and assists with routine ...

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Program Director information

See Arizona salary details

$27.5K

$72.9K

$127.7K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Arizona is $72,869.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,400.00 and $86,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Program Directors?

Program Directors are professionals responsible for planning, implementing, and overseeing specific programs within an organization. They manage budgets, coordinate staff, evaluate program effectiveness, and ensure goals align with the organization’s mission. Program Directors often work in fields such as education, healthcare, nonprofit, and media. Their leadership ensures that programs run smoothly, meet objectives, and deliver value to stakeholders.

What are some common challenges Program Directors face when overseeing multiple projects or initiatives?

Program Directors often encounter the challenge of balancing competing priorities across several projects, while ensuring alignment with the organization’s strategic goals. Managing diverse teams, coordinating resources, and addressing unexpected obstacles—such as shifting stakeholder requirements or budget constraints—are common aspects of the role. Effective communication, adaptability, and strong organizational skills are essential for navigating these complexities and ensuring successful program delivery. Collaboration with senior leadership and cross-functional teams is also crucial for resolving issues promptly and maintaining program momentum.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Program Directors in certain industries, such as healthcare, technology, or large nonprofit organizations, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities. High-level executive roles like CEOs or CFOs often surpass this threshold, but they are not specific to the Program Director position. Compensation varies widely based on industry, organization size, and geographic location.

Is a Program Director higher than a program manager?

A Program Director typically holds a higher-level leadership role than a program manager, overseeing multiple projects or programs and setting strategic goals. Program managers focus on managing individual projects within a program, executing plans, and ensuring deliverables. The hierarchy can vary by organization, but generally, Program Directors have broader responsibilities and authority than program managers.

What is the role of a Program Director?

A Program Director oversees the planning, implementation, and management of multiple related projects within an organization to achieve strategic goals. They coordinate teams, allocate resources, monitor progress, and ensure programs meet deadlines and budgets, often requiring strong leadership and communication skills. The role may also involve reporting to stakeholders and ensuring compliance with policies and standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Program Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Program Director, you need strong leadership, project management, and strategic planning skills, usually supported by a relevant degree and several years of management experience. Experience with budgeting software, project management tools like Asana or MS Project, and familiarity with compliance standards are often necessary. Exceptional communication, decision-making, and conflict resolution abilities are critical soft skills that set top Program Directors apart. These skills are crucial for aligning teams, driving program success, and ensuring organizational goals are consistently met.

What Is a Program Director?

A program director is an upper-management position found within organizations across almost all industries. Your primary job duties include coordinating, implementing, and overseeing all details of a company’s operation and programs. You monitor the budget, create community programs, supervise other managers, and develop better business practices. The exact job duties vary widely depending on industry and employer. Some program directors oversee the entire organization while others oversee specific departments. Though almost all industries utilize program directors, the two most commonly seen are business and healthcare.

What is the difference between Program Director vs Project Manager?

AspectProgram DirectorProject Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree; often prefers PMP or similar certificationsRequires a bachelor’s degree; PMP or CAPM certifications are common
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects within a program, strategic focusManages individual projects, tactical focus
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in nonprofits, corporate, government sectors for large initiativesCommon across industries for specific project execution

The Program Director focuses on overseeing multiple related projects to achieve strategic goals, while the Project Manager handles the planning and execution of a single project. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What degree do you need to be a Program Director?

A Program Director typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as business, management, or a specific industry area. Many roles also prefer or require a master's degree or relevant certifications, along with experience in leadership, project management, or the specific program area.
What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Arizona? The most popular types of Program jobs in Arizona are:
What are popular job titles related to Program Director jobs in Arizona? For Program Director jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Program Director jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Program Director job openings:
Program Director of Healthy Living - Desert Foothills Family YMCA

Program Director of Healthy Living - Desert Foothills Family YMCA

Valley of the Sun YMCA

Scottsdale, AZ • On-site

$18.88 - $20.77/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Description
The Valley of the Sun YMCA is honored to be among the top 50 YMCA associations in the United States, recognized for transforming our culture, vision, and operations. With 12 branches across the Valley and Northern Arizona, along with a thriving overnight camp in Prescott, we are a rapidly growing, cause-driven organization. Our mission is to enhance the nation's health and well-being while creating opportunities to give back and support our communities. If you are dedicated to being part of a greater movement, a career with the YMCA is for you.
RESPONSIBILITIES OF A PROGRAM DIRECTOR OF HEALTHY LIVING:
  • Supervise and oversee group fitness, personal training, aquatics staff/volunteers and all operations of the healthy living
  • Develop and implement innovative approaches to promoting healthy living
  • Impact the lives and health of each member each day

*This is not an exhaustive list of job duties. Other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned.
REQUIREMENTS TO BE A PROGRAM DIRECTOR OF HEALTHY LIVING:
  • A passion for health and fitness
  • Current certifications in YMCA Healthy Lifestyle Principles, Foundations of YMCA Group Exercise and/or YMCA Personal Training Instructor, CPR, First Aid
  • Minimum two years of supervisory experience in health and fitness
  • Bachelor's degree in physical education, recreation or equivalent experience

FULL TIME BENEFITS:
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Free YMCA Family Membership
  • Employee Program Rewards and Discounts
  • Paid Vacation & Sick Leave (Once Accrued)
  • 403b Retirement Savings Account Upon Hire
  • Professional Development Opportunities & Trainings
  • 12% Employer Funded Retirement Plan (Once Eligible)
  • Health Benefits Including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability Insurance

OUR YMCA CULTURE:
The Valley of the Sun YMCA has been a trusted place of belonging, growth, and opportunity. We are for strengthening families, and creating opportunities for every child, teen, adult and senior to thrive. Guided by our call to Be Well. Do Good. Lead Change. Our goal is to expand access, deepen impact and secure a sustainable future for the Y across Arizona.
Valley of the Sun YMCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for this opening. Unless explicitly authorized by law, selection will be made without regard to, and there will be no discrimination because of, color, race, religion, national origin, marital status, parental status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, age (40 or over), sex (including pregnancy and related conditions, gender identity, and sexual orientation), or on the basis of personal favoritism, or any other non-merit factors.
Our YMCA promotes a safe environment that is free from abuse. No form of abuse will be tolerated. All allegations of abuse will be taken seriously and responded to in accordance with our Abuse Response Process.
This job announcement is not intended to be inclusive of all functions, responsibilities and qualifications associated with the position, however, representative of the essential job functions and typical criteria considered necessary to successfully perform the position.