ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Program Director Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

WSP

Senior Program Director

Glastonbury, CT · On-site

$116K - $116K/yr

This Opportunity WSP is seeking a Senior Program Director for our Power & Energy Program Management Office. The successful candidate is preferred to be located Northeast region with the ability to ...

WSP

Senior Program Director

Glastonbury, CT

$116K - $116K/yr

This Opportunity WSP is seeking a Senior Program Director for our Power & Energy Program Management Office. The successful candidate is preferred to be located Northeast region with the ability to ...

oakhill

GILEAD - Program Director

Middletown, CT

Why This Role Matters Gilead I and II are Gilead's original programs. This is a unique opportunity to lead two highly valued, clinically rich coeducational adult programs thatdeliverhigh quality ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProgram JobsProgram Director JobsProgram Director Jobs in Connecticut

Program Director information

See Connecticut salary details

$28.1K

$74.4K

$130.3K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Connecticut is $74,386.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,400.00 and $88,000.00 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.
More about Program Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Connecticut? The most popular types of Program jobs in Connecticut are:
What are popular job titles related to Program Director jobs in Connecticut? For Program Director jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Director jobs in Connecticut look for? The top searched job categories for Program Director jobs in Connecticut are:
What cities in Connecticut are hiring for Program Director jobs? Cities in Connecticut with the most Program Director job openings:
Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Director job openings in Connecticut as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,386 per year, or $35.8 per hour.
Program Director - Norwalk Early Learning

Program Director - Norwalk Early Learning

CONNECTICUT INSTITUTE FOR COMMUNITIES INC

Norwalk, CT • On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Description:

Connecticut Institute For Communities, Inc. (CIFC)'s Early Learning Programs (ELP) seeks a full-time Program Director for our Norwalk Early Learning Program, providing Head Start and Early Head Start services to families in our Greater Norwalk Service areas. Under the direction of the CIFC Chief of Early Learning Programs, the Program Director is responsible for all Norwalk daily operations which include administrative, social service, classroom, and facilities staff. The Program Director has direct supervision of the management team, as well as responsibility for licensing our childcare facilities.


The Program Director is responsible to ensure full enrollment and to operate the Program in full compliance with CIFC Policies and Procedures and funding source (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services/Administration for Children and Families; State of Connecticut Office of Early Childhood and Department of Public Health; and local municipalities) rules and regulations. The Program Director is also expected to work closely with the Greater Norwalk Head Start Policy Council to enable their participation in the governance of the program, and, effectively collaborate with the City of Norwalk and other community partners.


Competitive compensation, plus comprehensive fringe benefits package including health care coverage, retirement program, paid-time off, 13 paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, and Public Student Loan Forgiveness eligibility.

Requirements:
  • BA in Early Childhood Education or closely related field, MA strongly preferred;
  • 2 years of related work experience, preferably including specific experience with Head Start;
  • Significant administrative and supervisory experience and/or qualifications required;
  • Excellent leadership, administrative, financial and writing skills required;
  • Computer literacy and competency with enrollment and lesson plan systems required; and
  • Fluency in Spanish, preferred.