Program Director Jobs in Evanston, IL (NOW HIRING)

This position is able to be based out of any of our offices in the USA, with preference to Chicago, Nashville, Atlanta, Tampa, and Denver.

Are you a data-driven problem solver who thrives on building structure and making things run better? Walker Consultants is looking for a proactive and organized Program Director to lead and grow our KapstoneVT™ platform within our Vertical Transportation practice.

We are seeking a hands‑on leader to drive the development and execution of a performance‑focused, data‑driven program that delivers measurable insight across elevator and escalator portfolios.

In this role, you will work closely with internal teams to manage KPI data, reporting, and program operations, while building scalable processes and leading a growing team. You’ll play a critical role in turning complex data into meaningful insights, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and efficiency across all aspects of the program.

This is more than just an operations role—it’s an opportunity to build, lead, and shape a key service offering within Walker. Your leadership, attention to detail, and ability to create structure will directly impact how we deliver value to our clients.

We offer a collaborative, growth‑focused environment, competitive salary and benefits, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. The ability to be a self‑starter, manage multiple priorities, communicate effectively, and lead with accountability will be key to success in this role.

• Lead the day‑to‑day operations of the KapstoneVT™ program, ensuring consistent, accurate, and timely delivery across all service areas.
• Manage large volumes of operational and client data, including intake, tracking, and organization.
• Oversee KPI data collection, validation, and reporting to support performance insights and decision‑making.
• Develop and deliver dashboards, analytics, and reports using tools like Power BI.
• Build, lead, and develop a growing team—assigning work, setting priorities, and driving accountability.
• Create and refine scalable processes, workflows, and standard operating procedures to support program growth.
• Identify gaps in data, workflows, and service delivery, and implement solutions to improve efficiency and accuracy.
• Partner with consultants and internal teams to support performance tracking, maintenance assessments, and client deliverables.
• Lead onboarding for new clients, establishing structured and repeat‑able processes.
• Oversee program‑related financial processes, documentation, and compliance requirements.

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Management, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
• 2+ years of experience in the vertical transportation industry
• Experience leading operational programs, data‑driven workflows, or service‑based teams
• Strong data management and reporting skills, including Power BI or similar tools
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and large datasets with a high level of accuracy
• Experience building and scaling teams, processes, or programs
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem‑solving skills
• Working knowledge of elevator and escalator systems preferred

$100,000 - $115,000 a year

At Walker Consultants, we are committed to maintaining fairness and equity in our pay practices. For this role, the estimated base salary range is $100,000 - $115,000 per year. The final salary offered may vary based on factors such as experience, qualifications, skills, location, internal equity, and other considerations permitted by law. We value open conversations about compensation and welcome the opportunity to discuss more about base salary and Walker’s total rewards philosophy during the recruiting process.

We offer a robust total compensation and rewards package designed to support our employees’ well‑being, growth, and diverse needs, including:

• Annual discretionary bonus program
• Opportunity to purchase Walker stock – Walker is 100% employee‑owned!
• Medical, dental, vision, company‑paid life insurance
• Mental wellness benefits
• Health Savings Account with company contribution
• 401(k) with company match
• Flexible Spending Accounts and Commuter Spending Accounts
• 529 college savings plan
• A minimum of 3 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
• 9 paid holidays per year, including 3 paid floating holidays
• 5 days of bereavement leave and PTO Donation Bank to help during difficult times
• 100% compensation replacement during short‑term disability leaves
• Paid parental leave that allows an additional week of paid time alongside short‑term disability leave and/or applicable state paid leave programs
• Paid community involvement hours
• Tuition and licensure reimbursement, and sponsorship of professional memberships
• Internal conferences and professional development opportunities
• Employee Resource Groups and Affinity Groups

At Walker Consultants, we understand that vertical transportation systems are more than just elevators and escalators—they’re essential to how people experience and move through buildings. That’s why clients turn to us for expert consulting, thoughtful design, and reliable solutions that prioritize safety, efficiency, and long‑term performance.

Our Vertical Transportation team brings deep industry knowledge and hands‑on experience across a wide range of building types—from high‑rise office towers to mixed‑use developments and transit facilities. We support every phase of the process, including layout design, code review, modernization planning, and construction oversight. Whether it’s new construction or a retrofit, we tailor our approach to meet each project’s specific needs and constraints.

With a national footprint and a collaborative, multi‑disciplinary team, Walker offers the responsiveness of a local partner backed by the strength of a nationally respected firm. We combine technical excellence with practical insight to deliver vertical transportation solutions that work—now and for decades to come.

We know that great talent comes in many forms. If you’re excited about this role but don’t meet every single requirement, we still encourage you to apply! You might just be the right person for this role—or another opportunity on our team.

At Walker Consultants, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We welcome and encourage applications from individuals of all abilities. If you require any accommodations during the application or interview process, or in the workplace, please let us know—we will work with you to ensure a fair and accessible experience.

Walker Consultants is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). We invite all qualified applicants to apply and do not discriminate against individuals because of their race, color, religion, national origin, gender, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or age.