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Program Director Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

Wisconsin

UW-Managed Program Director

Madison, WI · On-site

UW-Managed Program Director Job Category: Limited Employment Type: Regular Job Profile: Dsgn&Con Proj Dlvry Dir (Inst) Job Duties: The UW-Managed Program Director directs, administers, and manages ...

Ancora Education

AT - Program Director - CDL

Arcadia, WI · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

The CDL Program Director provides subject matter expertise and actively participates in curriculum development, revision, and implementation process. As the subject matter expert in a particular ...

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Program Director information

See Wisconsin salary details

$29.8K

$78.9K

$138.3K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Wisconsin is $78,927.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $93,400.00 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 Wisconsin? The most popular types of Program jobs in Wisconsin are:
What are popular job titles related to Program Director jobs in Wisconsin? For Program Director jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Director jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Program Director jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Program Director jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Program Director job openings:
Program Director jobs near you
Program Director (Government Programs)

Program Director (Government Programs)

Fincantieri Marine Group

Marinette, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Fincantieri Marine Group is hiring a Program Director in the Program Management Department at our Marinette, WI location.
Fincantieri Marine Group
Fincantieri Marine Group (FMG) is a subsidiary of Fincantieri S.p.A. with a mission to build, repair, and sustain maritime vessels that proudly supply, service, and defend our nation and the world. Fincantieri offers rewarding careers to more than 20,000 employees across 4 continents within 20 shipyards. We are a world leader and shipbuilder of choice, constantly evolving to meet global megatrends in tourism, energy, and defense through innovative and competitive maritime solutions.
Position Summary
The Program Director of Government Programs provides strategic leadership to our most critical government shipyard projects--from initial contract negotiations to final delivery. This role is responsible for program performance, financial management, contract compliance, risk mitigation, and customer relationships while leading program teams to ensure schedule, cost, and quality objectives are achieved. This position directly influences our reputation for excellence in the maritime sector in order to win repeat business and expand into new markets.
Domestic and international travel may be required.
Essential Functions
  • Monitor contract execution, negotiate changes, and assess impacts of engineering and scope changes
  • Oversee program financial performance, including budgeting, forecasting, EACs, margin analysis, and P&L responsibility, resolving discrepancies as needed
  • Working supervision over program teams to ensure cost, schedule, quality, and contract compliance objectives are achieved
  • Frequent communication with all levels of shipyard personnel, customers, regulatory bodies, and major suppliers, serving as the primary customer point-of-contact
  • Ownership of the risk management plan, determining risk areas and working to mitigate such risks
  • Other duties as assigned

Required Skills
  • Knowledge of Earned Value Management (EVMS) principles and practices (or a comparable program management methodology) and Integrated Master Schedule (IMS) as it relates
  • Strong negotiation skills and knowledge of DFAR and FAR preferred
  • Working knowledge of Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)
  • Familiarity with Design Software tools such as AutoCAD, ShipConstructor and NavisWorks
  • Must have strong Microsoft Office Suite computer skills
  • Must have strong organizational, time management, written and verbal communication skills
  • Must have ability to maintain confidentiality and a professional demeanor
  • Must adhere to ISO and OSHA policies established by FMG and have high values for safety awareness
  • Perform supervisory responsibilities in accordance with Company policies, procedures, and applicable laws, including interviewing, hiring, and training employees; planning, assigning, and directing work; evaluating performance; employee recognition and discipline; resolving employee concerns; and developing employees with the skills, competencies, and values needed to achieve Company goals.

Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree, or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
  • 5 Years of project leadership experience in the shipbuilding industry or major defense industry required
  • Proven track record of managing multi-million-dollar contracts from bid to delivery and experience with marine systems, including structural, outfitting, machinery, hydraulics, electrical, mechanical, electronics, HVAC, etc.

Competencies
Fincantieri's core competencies reflect our values and key behavioral expectations for all employees:
  • Open Mindset: Identify and solve problems, embrace change, and seek continuous learning
  • Strategic Leadership: Build trust, unity, and accountability while working toward shared goals
  • Accomplishment: Take ownership, deliver results, and ensure customer satisfaction
  • Social Connection: Collaborate, communicate, and value diversity and inclusion
  • Leadership Excellence: Fincantieri leaders lead by example, empower, and inspire success

Physical Demands and Work Environment
While performing job duties, the employee is frequently required to sit and occasionally stand or walk; use hands and arms to grasp, reach and type; stoop or kneel; and speak or hear. The employee may occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds. The position is primarily performed in a quiet, climate-controlled environment with minimal exposure to moving equipment, elements, or risk of injury. When entering the shipyard, there may be exposure to moving equipment, elements, or risk of injury.
Posting Disclaimer
This job description provides a summary of the work environment, knowledge, skill, ability, and physical demands required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities. Other duties may apply. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EEO Statement
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

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