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Program Director Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Ancora Education

AT - Program Director - CDL

Columbia, SC · On-site

$56K - $60K/yr

The CDL Program Director provides subject matter expertise and actively participates in curriculum development, revision, and implementation process. As the subject matter expert in a particular ...

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Program Director information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$24.1K

$63.9K

$111.9K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Columbia, SC is $63,850.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,300.00 and $75,500.00 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 Columbia, SC?

The most popular types of Program jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What job categories do people searching Program Director jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Director jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Program Director jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Program Director job openings:

Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Director job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,850 per year, or $30.7 per hour.

Program Director Nursing

Southeastern College

Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

SUMMARY: The Program Director shall oversee and manage the operations of the Practical Nursing program. The Program Director shall be proficient in program administration, curriculum design, instruction, evaluation, budget planning, faculty mentoring, and accreditation processes. The Program Director must possess strong leadership and communication skills to effectively meet the needs of students, faculty, and the healthcare community.QUALIFICATIONS:Masters in Nursing, minimumCurrent, unrestricted State RN LicenseAcademic leadership experience, minimum 2 yearsFull-time teaching experience, minimum 2 yearsFull-time nursing practice experience, minimum 4 yearsFamiliarity with accreditation processesESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:Work with faculty, Clinical Coordinator (if applicable), Dean of Academic Affairs, Regional Academics, Program Chair, and the Campus President to assure program effectivenessIdentify trends within the profession to include: best practices, industry changes, new technologies, and other significant factors indicative of curricula or course revision/updateParticipate in budget planning (maintain operational equipment, resources, and instructional/training tools)Provide input and updates to program section of the schools master planMaintain a systematic plan of evaluation, reflective of on-going faculty assessment of student learning outcomes and program outcomesConducts reviews with faculty to assess program textbooks, training materials, program evaluation tools, student projects, and assignmentsObserve, evaluate, and monitor faculty/staff performance and provide feedback in a timely mannerConduct regular departmental meetings to discuss program effectiveness and methods for improvementAttend regular curriculum meetings, College faculty meetings, and Advisory Board meetingsCultivate relationships with clinical sites, and evaluate and assure clinical education effectivenessReview Clinical scheduling and provide oversight of the Clinical Coordinator (if applicable) or act has Clinical CoordinatorWork with campus Librarian to maintain current books, periodicals, and electronic resources relevant to the professional disciplineMaintain current knowledge of the professional discipline and educational methodologies through continuing professional developmentUtilize the staffing model to proactively identify hiring needsBack-up of Nursing faculty, as needed.BUSINESS CONTRIBUTIONS:The Nurse Administrator/Program Director utilizes their professional expertise to enhance, develop, maintain, and deliver education experiences to students:Create inclusive process that engages faculty in curriculum enhancement and developmentFacilitate student engagement and enhance participation in student governanceAssess student's academic progress and assist faculty in providing developmental feedback and/or customized remediation plansWork with faculty to prepare budget and equipment requestsWork collaboratively with other departments.PHYSICAL DEMANDS:The physical demands are those required in a professional office setting and higher education, demonstrating procedures and techniques, and getting to and from appropriate classes and offices.WORK ENVIRONMENT:Professional office setting: moderate noise levels and controlled indoor climate.Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.LOCATION:This position is an onsite position located at your campus unless otherwise determined by the Office of the Executive Director. Any changes must be reviewed by the Campus President and all final approvals must come from the Office of the Executive Director.BENEFITS401(k) 401(k) matchingDental InsuranceHealth InsuranceVision InsurancePaid time off

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