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Program Director Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

LifeWise Academy

Program Director

Bondurant, IA · On-site

What You'll Do As program director, you'll help lead and grow your community's LifeWise program by: Building Community Relationships * Develop positive partnerships with school leaders, parents ...

LifeWise Academy

Volunteer Elementary Teacher

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$41K - $56K/yr

Take attendance in each class and provide attendance records to LifeWise program director and/or school officials as needed * Maintain accurate class rosters including health concerns, special needs ...

LifeWise Academy

Elementary Teacher

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$41K - $56K/yr

Take attendance in each class and provide attendance records to LifeWise program director and/or school officials as needed * Maintain accurate class rosters including health concerns, special needs ...

LifeWise Academy

Secondary Teacher

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Attend events as available or requested by the program director * Maintain ongoing dialogue with school personnel to stay apprised of class schedule changes and ensure student well-being * Build ...

LifeWise Academy

Elementary Teacher

Johnston, IA · On-site

$41K - $56K/yr

Take attendance in each class and provide attendance records to LifeWise program director and/or school officials as needed * Maintain accurate class rosters including health concerns, special needs ...

LifeWise Academy

Leadership Board Member

Bondurant, IA · On-site

Providing input and direction to the program director as he/she manages the day-to-day operations of the program * Assisting with the 5 L's of operations: * Leadership: Recruit and onboard program ...

LifeWise Academy

Leadership Board Member

Bondurant, IA · On-site

Providing input and direction to the program director as he/she manages the day-to-day operations of the program * Assisting with the 5 L's of operations: * Leadership: Recruit and onboard program ...

LifeWise Academy

Leadership Board Member

Johnston, IA · On-site

Providing input and direction to the program director as he/she manages the day-to-day operations of the program * Assisting with the 5 L's of operations: * Leadership: Recruit and onboard program ...

LifeWise Academy

Leadership Board Member

Johnston, IA · On-site

Providing input and direction to the program director as he/she manages the day-to-day operations of the program * Assisting with the 5 L's of operations: * Leadership: Recruit and onboard program ...

LifeWise Academy

Leadership Board Member

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Providing input and direction to the program director as he/she manages the day-to-day operations of the program * Assisting with the 5 L's of operations: * Leadership: Recruit and onboard program ...

LifeWise Academy

Leadership Board Member

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Providing input and direction to the program director as he/she manages the day-to-day operations of the program * Assisting with the 5 L's of operations: * Leadership: Recruit and onboard program ...

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Program Director information

See Ames, IA salary details

$28.9K

$76.5K

$134K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Ames, IA is $76,490.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,800.00 and $90,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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-related area. Many roles also prefer or require a master's degree or relevant certifications, along with strong leadership and organizational skills.
More about Program Director jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Ames, IA?

The most popular types of Program jobs in Ames, IA are:

What job categories do people searching Program Director jobs in Ames, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Director jobs in Ames, IA are:

What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Program Director jobs?

Cities near Ames, IA with the most Program Director job openings:

Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Director job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,490 per year, or $36.8 per hour.

Program Director

LifeWise Academy

Bondurant, IA • On-site

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

What You'll Do
As program director, you'll help lead and grow your community's LifeWise program by:
Building Community Relationships
  • Develop positive partnerships with school leaders, parents, churches and community
    members
  • Serve as a trusted representative of LifeWise Academy in the local community
  • Communicate the vision and impact of the program

Leading Fundraising and Community Support
  • Coordinate local fundraising efforts and community giving campaigns
  • Lead donor communication, appreciation and stewardship
  • Conduct church presentations, fundraising events, sponsorship opportunities and
    community outreach initiatives
  • Encourage ongoing financial partnerships to help sustain and grow the program
  • Utilize the LifeWise Academy fundraising strategies

Leading and Supporting Team Members
  • Recruit, train, encourage and support team members
  • Foster a safe, welcoming, Christ-centered culture for students and families
  • Coordinate teams to ensure classes run smoothly and safely

Managing Program Operations
  • Oversee communication, scheduling, enrollment and basic administrative tasks
  • Assist with budgeting, fundraising coordination and stewardship ofresources
  • Maintain compliance with school policies and LifeWise Academy procedures

What Success Looks Like
  • Students receive excellent biblical instruction and experience the gospel as part of every class
  • Families are supported and are connected to the local church
  • Team members feel equipped and valued
  • Donors and community partners feel connected to the mission and impact
  • Schools experience professionalism and partnership
  • Churches unite around a mission that impacts the next generation
  • The program operates sustainably, with the funding,resources, systems and partnerships needed to grow and serve students for years to come

You Might Be a Great Fit If You:
  • Love building relationships and bringing people together
  • Are passionate aboutreaching public school students with the gospel
  • Enjoy leadership, organization and community engagement
  • Are comfortable inviting others to financially support a meaningful mission
  • Communicate clearly and professionally
  • Can manage details while keeping sight of the bigger mission
  • Thrive in ministry, nonprofit, education or community leadership settings
  • Are self-motivated, dependable and flexible

Experience in ministry, education, fundraising, administration, volunteer coordination or community
engagement is helpful, but a heart forthe mission is essential.
Why People Love This Role
  • Meaningful Impact: You'll help bring Bible education to students who may never otherwise hear the gospel
  • Flexible Part-Time Work: This role is ideal for someone seeking meaningful, mission-driven work while balancing family, ministry or other professional commitments
  • Strong Support and Training: You won't do this alone. LifeWise Academy provides systems,
    resources, coaching and ongoing support to help you succeed.
  • Be Part of a Growing Movement: LifeWise Academy is expanding rapidly across the country as
    more communities seek to bring released time religious instruction to local students

Position Details
  • Part-time position (approximately 15-20 hours per week)
  • Some daytime availability required during school hours
  • Occasional weekend, evening or community events

If you're excited about building something meaningful in your community and helping impact the next
generation, we'd love to talk with you. Apply today to learn more about joining the LifeWise Academy
mission.
Benefits
  • Retirement plan, including employer match

LifeWise Academy's hiring practices and EEO Statement are fully in compliance with both federal and state law. Federal law creates an exception to the "religion"section of employment discrimination laws for religious
organizations and permitsthem to give employment preference to members of their own religion. LifeWise
Academy is in that category.
Classification: Non-Exempt (Hourly)
Employment Type: Part-Time
Grid Level: 2a

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