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Program Director Jobs in Champaign, IL (NOW HIRING)

Program Manager

Champaign, IL · On-site

$147K/yr

Serves as an ERDC-level Program Officer for research in the Programs Office.Qualifications: Who May Apply: Only applicants who meet one of the employment authority categories below are eligible to ...

New

Key Responsibilities Program Development & Oversight * Design, implement, and continuously update ... Partner with Directors, Clinical Supervisors, and HR to streamline onboarding and ongoing training ...

Key Responsibilities Program Development & Oversight * Design, implement, and continuously update ... Partner with Directors, Clinical Supervisors, and HR to streamline onboarding and ongoing training ...

Key Responsibilities Program Development & Oversight * Design, implement, and continuously update ... Partner with Directors, Clinical Supervisors, and HR to streamline onboarding and ongoing training ...

The Finance Director plays a critical role in mergers and acquisitions, capital planning, captive ... Coordinate with captive managers, actuaries, and legal counsel on program structure, compliance ...

Finance Director

Champaign, IL · On-site

$175K - $215K/yr

The Finance Director plays a critical role in mergers and acquisitions, capital planning, captive ... Coordinate with captive managers, actuaries, and legal counsel on program structure, compliance ...

Showing results 21-40

Program Director information

See Champaign, IL salary details

$29.5K

$78.3K

$137.2K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Champaign, IL is $78,310.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,100.00 and $92,600.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Champaign, IL?

The most popular types of Program jobs in Champaign, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Program Director jobs in Champaign, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Director jobs in Champaign, IL are:

What cities near Champaign, IL are hiring for Program Director jobs?

Cities near Champaign, IL with the most Program Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Program Director job openings in Champaign, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,310 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Associate Director for Student Programs & Activities

University of Illinois

Urbana, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Duties & Responsibilities
  • Leadership
    • Lead, advise and support the Illini Union Board, including leadership development, governance, and operational effectiveness.
    • Direct and oversee professional and student employee performance, leave, and professional development.
    • Direct the day-to-day operations of the department, ensuring compliance and adherence to campus and Illini Union related policies and procedures.
    • Delegate and assign operation and college student advising responsibilities.
    • Coordinate and direct hiring, training, evaluation, and supervision of professional staff and student leaders. Provide coaching, development opportunities, and performance management support.
    • Serve as a member of the Illini Union senior leadership team, representing and advocating for the Illini Union Board and Illini Union Programming.
    • Represent and advocate on behalf of the Illini Union, on campus with student affairs and academic colleagues.
    • Advise campus partners, student leaders, and internal stakeholders on programming strategy and engagement priorities.
    • Lead the strategic direction of programming efforts, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and student learning outcomes.
    • Serve on committees and represent the Illini Union in campus initiatives.
  • Program Leadership & Administration
    • Lead and advise on the planning and execution of major programs and events, including Illini Union signature programs (e.g., LateNighter, Showcase Week, Spring Jam, Winter Showcase Week).
    • Direct and oversee negotiation and execution of performance/entertainment/art contracts and risk/compliance processes for events.
    • Develop and oversee program budgets; ensure responsible stewardship of funds and compliance with policies. Research and apply for programming related grants and funding where appropriate.
    • Lead annual planning, goal setting, and assessment of programming outcomes. Lead organizational development initiatives that enhance program quality and operational effectiveness.
    • Ensure adherence to institutional policies, procedures, and documentation standards.
    • Other responsibilities/duties as assigned.
  • Student Engagement & Campus Partnerships
    • Develop and implement programs that support college student engagement, sense of belonging, and personal and professional development.
    • Establish and maintain partnerships with registered student organizations, campus departments, and community partners and expand program reach through collaboration, co-sponsorship, and innovation.
    • Lead assessment of college student needs and incorporate feedback to continuously improve programming.
  • Organizational Development, Assessment & Innovation
    • Research, design, and implement assessment strategies to evaluate program outcomes.
    • Drive innovation and continuous improvement across programming efforts based on assessment.
    • Identify trends and emerging practices in student engagement and campus programming.

University of Illinois logo

About University of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Illinois, located in Urbana, Illinois, US, is a prominent entity in the higher education sector. Operating its official functions through its website uillinois.edu, the institution provides a range of educational programs and services. The University was founded in 1867 and has since grown dramatically both in size and reputation. Its core values are embodied in its mission to enhance the lives of its students and citizens in the state, nation, and world through leadership in learning, discovery, engagement, and economic development. The university boasts several notable achievements including producing Nobel laureates and Pulitzer prize winners. It is renowned for its research programs and is known for significant advancements across various fields including engineering, science, and humanities.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Urbana, IL, US

Year founded

1974

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