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Program Director Jobs in Alameda, CA (NOW HIRING)

Bright Future Early Learning Center

Be Seen First

Program Director

Oakland, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

The Program Director will support strong daily operations, guide teacher development, strengthen family communication, and ensure compliance with California childcare licensing regulations. Bright ...

READING PARTNERS

Program Director

Oakland, CA · Remote

The Program Director (PD) provides strategic leadership, development, and oversight of a national portfolio of regional programs and reading centers, ensuring the successful implementation of Reading ...

Steps Therapy Inc

Program Director

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$27 - $35/hr

We are always seeking qualified Program Directors who are dedicated to helping others and making a difference in a child's life. This position is non-exempt (hourly), with the pay range falling ...

Steps Therapy Inc

Program Director

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$27 - $35/hr

We are always seeking qualified Program Directors who are dedicated to helping others and making a difference in a child's life. This position is non-exempt (hourly), with the pay range falling ...

Touro University

Program Director - Radiologic

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$160K - $162K/yr

The Program Director will have full responsibility for the program's overall direction, including its organization, administration, periodic review, and continued development. This role is pivotal in ...

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Program Director information

See Alameda, CA salary details

$33.4K

$88.6K

$155.3K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Alameda, CA is $88,624.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,100.00 and $104,800.00 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 Alameda, CA? The most popular types of Program jobs in Alameda, CA are:
What job categories do people searching Program Director jobs in Alameda, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Program Director jobs in Alameda, CA are:
What cities near Alameda, CA are hiring for Program Director jobs? Cities near Alameda, CA with the most Program Director job openings:
Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Director job openings in Alameda, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,624 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Program Director

Bright Future Early Learning Center

Oakland, CA • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

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Job description

Bright Future Early Learning Center is seeking a full-time Program Director to provide daily leadership, supervision, and coordination for our early childhood education program. Bright Future is an inclusive, play-based learning community serving children ages 3 months to 5 years old.

The Program Director will support strong daily operations, guide teacher development, strengthen family communication, and ensure compliance with California childcare licensing regulations. Bright Future currently serves approximately 50 students and employs 12 teaching staff. The center is operated by Oakland State Building Kids Corporation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization overseen by a volunteer Board of Directors.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership:
Oversee daily implementation of infant, toddler, and preschool programs. Ensure classrooms follow developmentally appropriate practices and play-based learning. Support teachers with curriculum planning, classroom organization, assessments, parent-teacher conferences, and family resources.

Daily Operations:
Maintain staffing schedules and Title 22 ratio compliance. Coordinate substitute coverage when needed. Ensure smooth classroom flow, safe supervision, accurate attendance, incident reports, and proper documentation.

Center Operations:
Direct financial and fundraising matters. Develop and maintain the annual budget and monthly financial projections. Oversee bookkeeping, tax preparation, supply purchasing, vendor contracts, teacher payroll, and family invoicing.

Staff Supervision and Development:
Supervise teaching staff and support instructional growth. Observe classrooms and provide feedback. Support onboarding and training of new staff. Participate in staff evaluations, lead staff meetings, and promote a positive workplace culture.

Family Communication:
Ensure clear and consistent communication with families. Share updates about classroom activities, learning experiences, child development progress, program routines, policies, and expectations. Support teachers in responding to parent concerns and build strong family partnerships.

Program Culture:
Promote a respectful, collaborative, and professional environment. Ensure children feel safe, valued, and encouraged. Support community-building events and strengthen relationships between staff, children, and families.

Reporting Relationship:
The Program Director reports directly to the Board of Directors and works closely with staff, families, and community partners.

Hours and Location:
This is a full-time, on-site position. The center’s normal operating hours are Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. The center is located at 1515 Clay Street in downtown Oakland.

Physical Requirements:
Ability to sit, stand, walk, squat, and reach throughout the day. Ability to lift up to 20 pounds. Ability to move throughout classrooms and outdoor areas.

Minimum Qualifications:
Ability to obtain a Child Development Director Permit. CPR and First Aid certification. At least 3–5 years of experience in a licensed childcare program.

Desired Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Child Development, Early Childhood Education, or a related field. Strong knowledge of California Title 22 regulations. Supervisory or mentoring experience. Strong communication, organization, and conflict-resolution skills. Bilingual candidates preferred. Experience with childcare software systems. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite. Experience with budget development and management.

Compensation and Benefits:
Salary range is $80,000–$100,000, depending on education and experience. Excellent benefits are offered, including health, dental, vision, and retirement.

Please submit a Cover Letter. Your cover letter should explain why you are interested in the Program Director position and summarize your background and relevant experience.