ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Program Director Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Spectrum Human Services

Program Director

Westland, MI · On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Join Our Leadership Team as Program Director: Open-Residential Youth Services (Detroit, MI) Spectrum Child & Family Services is seeking a highly qualified, experienced professional to fill the ...

LifeWise Academy

Program Director

Carleton, MI · On-site

The Program Director will serve in a part-time 15-20 hours per week capacity. Hours may be greater than 20 hours per week initially and may vary during the summer months. Job Responsibilities:

LifeWise Academy

Program Director

Rochester, MI · On-site

The Program Director will serve in a part-time 15-20 hours per week capacity. Hours may be greater than 20 hours per week initially and may vary during the summer months. Job Responsibilities:

LifeWise Academy

Program Director

Livonia, MI · On-site

The Program Director will serve in a part-time 15-20 hours per week capacity. Hours may be greater than 20 hours per week initially and may vary during the summer months. Job Responsibilities:

Sevita

Program Director

Ypsilanti, MI

$85K - $100K/yr

Program Director Salary: $85,000 - $100,000/yr + Up to 5% Management Incentive Compensation (MIC) paid out quarterly Looking for rewarding work in an organization dedicated to making a positive ...

The Little Gym

Program Director

Bloomfield, MI · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

You'll report directly to the Gym Director and own what matters most: the quality of every class ... Programs offer children a Springboard to Life's Adventures by using movement-based learning and ...

Ford Motor Company

Vehicle Program Director

Dearborn, MI · Hybrid

$322K - $425K/yr

Vehicle Program Director - positions offered by Ford Motor Company (Dearborn, Michigan). Note, this is a hybrid position whereby the employee will work both from home and from the aforementioned ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProgram JobsProgram Director JobsProgram Director Jobs in Detroit, MI

Program Director information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$27.3K

$72.4K

$126.9K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Detroit, MI is $72,425.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,100.00 and $85,700.00 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 is a program director?

A program director is a professional responsible for overseeing the planning, implementation, and evaluation of specific programs within an organization. They coordinate staff, manage budgets, and ensure program goals are met, often requiring leadership skills and relevant certifications. The role typically involves strategic decision-making and compliance with organizational policies.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A Program Director can earn $10,000 or more per month, especially in large organizations or with extensive experience, strong leadership skills, and industry expertise. High-paying roles often require significant responsibility, strategic planning, and management skills, but may not always require a formal degree if supplemented by relevant experience and certifications.

What is the role of a program director?

A program director oversees the planning, implementation, and evaluation of specific programs within an organization. They coordinate teams, manage budgets, set goals, and ensure that program objectives are met efficiently and effectively, often requiring leadership, organizational skills, and relevant certifications.

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 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 higher, along with experience in leadership, project management, or the specific sector they oversee.
More about Program Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Detroit, MI? The most popular types of Program jobs in Detroit, MI are:
What are popular job titles related to Program Director jobs in Detroit, MI? For Program Director jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Director jobs in Detroit, MI look for? The top searched job categories for Program Director jobs in Detroit, MI are:
What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Program Director jobs? Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Program Director job openings:
Program Director jobs near you

Program Director

Spectrum Human Services

Westland, MI • On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Spectrum Human Services rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


Join Our Leadership Team as Program Director: Open-Residential Youth Services (Detroit, MI)


Spectrum Child & Family Services is seeking a highly qualified, experienced professional to fill the demanding, profoundly rewarding role of Program Director for our Valor Place (open residential) program in Detroit, Michigan.

We require a leader with a strong background in social work, criminal justice, or correctional administration and a proven track record of successful leadership in youth residential programs. The ideal candidate has a deep passion and expertise in guiding staff who work with youth who display challenging behaviors, including verbal and physical intimidation.

About the Role and Our Mission

The Program Director provides strategic oversight and leadership for the day-to-day operations of this open-residential youth childcare institution. This role is critical in ensuring the safety, well-being, and positive development of the youth under our care, many of whom may have experienced significant trauma associated with abuse, neglect, and lower socioeconomic levels.

Key Responsibilities

  • Operational Management & Compliance Excellence: Oversee all daily functions, ensuring strict adherence to all relevant regulations, policies, and procedures. This includes maintaining 100% compliance with State of Michigan DHHS Licensing and Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) standards.
  • Strategic Staff Leadership & Retention: Ensure staff are effectively trained and provide decisive leadership and mentorship. The Program Director must champion initiatives to support, develop, and retain high-quality, resilient staff who work effectively with youth displaying challenging, aggressive, or crisis behaviors, thereby minimizing turnover.
  • Behavioral & Safety Oversight: Drive the implementation of trauma-informed practices and evidence-based behavior management strategies to maintain a secure environment and facilitate youth accountability and growth.
  • External Collaboration: Collaborate with external stakeholders, including DHHS Licensing, Wayne County, Care Management Organizations, and community partners, often acting as the lead point of contact for audits and accreditation efforts.
  • Relationship Building: Develop and maintain positive, professional relationships with youth, families, and staff, emphasizing a culture of respect and therapeutic intervention.

Our Treatment Approach

Our approach is deeply rooted in trauma-informed care and is designed to prevent recurring legal involvement, promote prosocial development, and lead to successful life outcomes.

Therapeutic Services include weekly individual therapy, group therapy, trauma-focused services, family therapy, and robust reentry planning.

Qualifications:

Qualified candidates must meet one of the following combinations of education and experience to qualify under MDHHS licensing requirements

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and 2 years of work experience in a child-caring institution.
  • Two years of college from an accredited college or university and 3 years of work experience in a child-caring institution.
  • A high school diploma and 4 years of work experience in a child-caring institution.

Candidates must complete and return a record of no findings on the DHHS Central Registry Clearance, a criminal history background check free of felony convictions, a physical examination that indicates satisfactory health status free from communicable diseases, including TB, and the physical ability to perform the functions of this job description with or without accommodation. Must have reliable transportation and a valid State of Michigan Driver’s License.

What we offer:

Join a team committed to transforming young lives. We offer a comprehensive package for this vital leadership role:

  • Compensation commensurate with experience
  • 31 Days of Paid Time Off Annually
  • BCN Medical
  • BCBS Dental
  • BCBS Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • 403(b) with employer match
  • $25,000 Life Insurance

Join the team today!

Affiliations: Social Current, American Correctional Association (ACA), National Juvenile Detention Association, Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).