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Program Director Jobs in Bakersfield, CA (NOW HIRING)

Sevita

Program Director

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

Program Director Have you been looking for a fantastic role to continue your career path in Social and Human Services? Look no further. This role is critical to our success and exemplifies the ...

Sevita

Program Director

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$70K/yr

Program Director, IDD Services $70,304/yr Have you been looking for a fantastic role to continue your career path in Social and Human Services? Look no further. This role is critical to our success ...

Amity Foundation

Associate Program Director (WSP)

Wasco, CA · On-site

$81.17 - $99.21/hr

The Associate Program Director supports the Program Director and provides direct supervision to the Supervising Counselor(s) on-site. What You Will DoEssential Duties: * Be on-site during programming ...

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Program Director information

See Bakersfield, CA salary details

$30.5K

$80.9K

$141.7K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Bakersfield, CA is $80,868.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,800.00 and $95,700.00 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 Bakersfield, CA?

The most popular types of Program jobs in Bakersfield, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Program Director jobs in Bakersfield, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Director jobs in Bakersfield, CA are:

What cities near Bakersfield, CA are hiring for Program Director jobs?

Cities near Bakersfield, CA with the most Program Director job openings:

Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Director job openings in Bakersfield, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,868 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

Program Director

Sevita

Bakersfield, CA • On-site

$70K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago

Sevita Health rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 285 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

787th of 889 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Mentor Community Services, a part of the Sevita family, provides community-based services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Here we believe every person has the right to live well, and everyone deserves to have a fulfilling career. You’ll join a mission-driven team and create relationships that motivate us all every day. Join us today, and experience a career well lived.

Program Director
Have you been looking for a fantastic role to continue your career path in Social and Human Services? Look no further. This role is critical to our success and exemplifies the wonderful mission driven work we do here every day.

  • Manage the day-to-day operations of one to four programs in a community including organization and implementation of direct supports, person-centered planning, and implementation, health care, advocacy, stakeholder relations, regulatory compliance, recruiting, retention, staffing, training, safety, financial management, and maintenance of the physical environment. 
  • Manage program staff members including performance evaluations, scheduling, and orientation. 
  • Make recommendations and/or decisions on employee hires, transfers, promotions, salary changes, corrective action, and terminations. 
  • Manage the implementation of program planning; monitor delivery of services and supports; ensure services are consistent, engaging, and relevant to the individuals served. 
  • Must be available on-call to support staff, find coverage or cover shifts as needed.

Annual Salary: $70,304.00

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree and two to three years of related experience in the Human Services Industry preferred.
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Other education, experience, training, licensure, or certification per state requirements or as required by applicable regulations.
  • Current driver's license, car registration, and auto insurance.
  • Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to multi-task to meet deadlines.
  • Effective communication skills to manage relationships.
  • A reliable, responsible attitude and a compassionate approach.

Why Join Us?

  • Full-time
  • Full compensation/benefits package for full-time employees.
  • 401(k) with a 3% company match.
  • Paid time off and holiday pay.
  • Rewarding work, impacting the lives of those you serve, working alongside a great team of coworkers.
  • Enjoy job security with nationwide career development and advancement opportunities.

We have a rewarding work environment with awesome co-workers – come join our team – Apply Today!


Sevita is a leading provider of home and community-based specialized health care. We believe that everyone deserves to live a full, more independent life. We provide people with quality services and individualized supports that lead to growth and independence, regardless of the physical, intellectual, or behavioral challenges they face.
We’ve made this our mission for more than 50 years. And today, our 40,000 team members continue to innovate and enhance care for the 50,000 individuals we serve all over the U.S.


As an equal opportunity employer, we do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

What Sevita Health employees say

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About Sevita

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sevita is a leading provider of home and community-based specialized health care. We believe that everyone deserves to live a full, more independent life. We provide people with quality services and individualized support that leads to growth and independence, regardless of the physical, intellectual, or behavioral challenges they face. We've made this our mission for more than 50 years. And today, our 40,000 team members continue to innovate and enhance care for the 50,000 individuals we serve. We're an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. Sevita is a leading provider of home and community-based specialized health care, similar companies include Brookedale Senior Living, A New Hope, and North Star.

Industry

Nursing and residential care facilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Boston, MA, US

Year founded

1980

Social media

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