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Program Director Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

NextGroup LLC

Program Director

Wilmette, IL

$75K - $85K/yr

About the Role Reporting to the President, the Program Director oversees all aspects of the residential program, including scholar development, staff leadership, operations, and external partnerships.

HIRE360

Assistant Program Director

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$75K - $85K/yr

CEJA Program Director Classification: Exempt Status: Full-time (Hybrid) Employee Type: W-2 Salary: $75,000 - $85,000 Who We Are: HIRE360 is an industry-led, workforce development nonprofit investing ...

VML

Program Director, Adobe

Chicago, IL · On-site

We are seeking an Adobe Program Director to lead client initiatives from planning through execution, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget. In this role, you will serve ...

VML

Program Director, Adobe

Chicago, IL · On-site

We are seeking an Adobe Program Director to lead client initiatives from planning through execution, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope, and on budget. In this role, you will serve ...

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All JobsProgram JobsProgram Director JobsProgram Director Jobs in Chicago, IL

Program Director information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.4K

$80.6K

$141.1K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Chicago, IL is $80,553.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,600.00 and $95,300.00 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 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 jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Program Directors typically require a degree and experience, but roles like sales representatives, administrative assistants, or certain skilled trades can earn around $3,000 monthly without a degree. These jobs often rely on skills, certifications, or on-the-job training rather than formal education.

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.

More about Program Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Program jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL? For Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Program Director jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Program Director job openings:
Program Director jobs near you

Program Director

NextGroup LLC

Wilmette, IL

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Position Highlights
  • This is a full-time position requiring 4 onsite days and 1 flexible day per week
  • Location:Evanston, IL (Scholar houses) & Wilmette, IL (office)
  • Compensation: $75K-$85K annually(commensurate with experience)
  • Reports to the President
  • Great opportunity to make a lasting difference for youth and their families
Lead Transformational Impact for Young People
Hope Ignites Chicago is seeking a dynamic, mission-driven Program Director to lead our residential program and help first-generation scholars unlock their full potential.
This is more than a leadership roleits an opportunity to shape lives. You will guide a dedicated team, foster a nurturing and structured home environment, and ensure scholars graduate high school, persist to and through college, and become engaged alumni and leaders in their communities.
About the Role
Reporting to the President, the Program Director oversees all aspects of the residential program, including scholar development, staff leadership, operations, and external partnerships. This role is ideal for a strong people leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about youth development, education, and equity.
What Youll Do
Lead Scholar Success
  • Champion the academic, personal, and social-emotional growth of scholars
  • Ensure a safe, structured, and supportive residential environment rooted in trauma-informed practices
  • Build strong, consistent relationships with scholars and serve as a visible leader
Drive Program Excellence
  • Oversee day-to-day residential operations, ensuring high-quality services and compliance with Hope Ignites Network Headquarters and DCFS standards
  • Manage scholar case records, data tracking, and reporting
  • Ensure effective systems for communication, scheduling, and accountability
  • Lead key program events and family engagement efforts
Build and Develop a High-Performing Team
  • Recruit, hire, and mentor residential staff
  • Provide ongoing coaching, training, and professional development
  • Create a positive, accountable team culture focused on excellence and growth
  • Manage performance, resolve conflicts, and support staff success
Strengthen Partnerships and Community Connections
  • Maintain strong relationships with families, partner schools, service providers, and community partners
  • Ensure compliance with licensing and network standards
  • Serve as liaison to the Program Committee and Governing Board
  • Support fundraising and donor engagement efforts
Support Recruitment & Admissions
  • Help build a strong pipeline of prospective scholars
  • Participate in candidate evaluation and admissions decisions
  • Ensure a smooth and effective onboarding process
Who You Are
You are a compassionate and strategic leader who combines strong operational skills with a deep commitment to youth development. You have high energy and can juggle multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously and effectively. You enjoy fast-paced environments and are passionate about college education as a key to success.
Required:
  • Masters degree in social work or related field
  • 510 years of experience working with youth, including 5+ years leading teams
  • Experience in residential or similar youth-serving environments strongly preferred
  • Valid drivers license and access to a reliable vehicle
  • Must live reasonably close to Scholar homes in Evanston for quick access in case of Scholar emergency
You bring:
  • Strong leadership and team-building skills
  • Exceptional communication and relationship management abilities
  • Sound judgment in high-pressure situations
  • A deep commitment to equity, inclusion, and serving first-generation students
  • The ability to manage multiple priorities with precision and accountability
Why Join Hope Ignites Chicago?
  • Mission-driven work: Make a lasting difference in the lives of young people
  • Leadership opportunity: Shape program strategy and team culture
  • Collaborative environment: Work alongside passionate, committed colleagues
  • Growth-focused: Ongoing professional development and leadership support
Working Conditions
  • Full-time leadership role with some evening/weekend responsibilities
  • On-call availability for occasional emergencies
  • Participation in ongoing training and annual evaluations
If youre ready to lead with purpose and create meaningful impact, we encourage you to apply.

How to Apply
Please submit your resume through the NextGroup website. The NextGroup search team will contact you regarding the next steps.

About Nextgroup
NextGroup is Chicagoland's leading executive search firm and nonprofit talent network connecting mission-driven organizations with exceptional leaders who drive impact. We customize talent solutions with our nonprofit partners, recruiting permanent, fractional, and interim professionals across executive leadership, finance, development, and operations.
We have a network of 10,000+ professionals in Chicagoland and beyond. We reject cookie-cutter approaches and instead partner with you to build human capital strategies that match your unique growth and capacity-building needs. NextGroup also provides career coaching and transition services to professionals advancing in the social impact sector.