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Program Director Jobs in Goleta, CA (NOW HIRING)

PURPOSE The Assistant Program Director assists the Program Director in all administrative functions and operations of the Father Virgil Cordano Center (the Center) by assisting Program Director to ...

PRESCHOOL DIRECTOR

Montecito, CA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

BENEFITS THAT BENEFIT YOUFREE YMCA Family Gym Membership and Program DiscountsFREE Medical HMO ... Director do?Accountable for financial development including budgeting and meeting growth ...

PRESCHOOL DIRECTOR

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$25.35 - $30.52/hr

Education Assistance Program Up To $1,500 per year * YMCA Retirement Fund * Paid Time Off, Sick Leave, and Holidays * Flexible Schedule What does a Program Director do? * Accountable for financial ...

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Program Director information

See Goleta, CA salary details

$31.8K

$84.4K

$147.8K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Goleta, CA is $84,370.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,200.00 and $99,800.00 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 Goleta, CA?

The most popular types of Program jobs in Goleta, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Program Director jobs in Goleta, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Director jobs in Goleta, CA are:

What cities near Goleta, CA are hiring for Program Director jobs?

Cities near Goleta, CA with the most Program Director job openings:

Infographic showing various Program Director job openings in Goleta, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,370 per year, or $40.6 per hour.

ASSISTANT PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

St. Vincent's
10K+ employees

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

PURPOSE

The Assistant Program Director assists the Program Director in all administrative functions and operations of the Father Virgil Cordano Center (the Center) by assisting Program Director to develop and implement program components to meet the goals set forth by the Program. The Assistant Program Director is responsible for assisting with the implementation of approved administrative policies and procedures, assisting clients through referrals, case management and other related services, networking with community agencies and organizations to promote collaboration, and non-duplication of services where services provided are adequate for the needs of the local community. 


THE ORGANIZATION

Fr. Virgil Cordano Center is a collaborative ministry of the Franciscan Friars at Old Mission Santa Barbara and the Daughters of Charity at St. Vincent’s that is rooted in the Gospel and the Social Teachings of the Catholic Church. Faithful to the traditions of St. Francis of Assisi and St. Vincent de Paul, we provide a place of welcome and support for the human and spiritual well-being of our sisters and brothers in need.


ACCOUNTABILITY

The Assistant Program Director reports directly to the FVCC Program Director.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Assist the Program Director with the day-to-day operations and administration of the Fr. Virgil Cordano Center.
  • Support client intake, orientation, referrals, case management, and related services.
  • Assist with Community Supports and Enhanced Care Management programs.
  • Help maintain a safe, welcoming, respectful, and professional environment for clients, staff, and volunteers.
  • Assist with grant applications, reporting requirements, program documentation, and required records.
  • Collaborate with community agencies and organizations to connect clients with appropriate resources and services.
  • Support the coordination of Center activities, meetings, supplies, and general operations.
  • Build positive relationships with clients while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.
  • Work collaboratively with the Program Director, staff, volunteers, and community partners.
  • Perform related duties, special assignments, and projects as needed.

 

QUALIFICATIONS

  • BA/BS in Social Work preferable; prior experience in lieu of degree considered.
  • Ability to read, write and communicate effectively in English.
  • Ability to solve problems and de-escalate conflict.
  • Commitment to working with underserved and homeless populations.
  • Ability to work independently with a strong level of organizational skills.
  • Must possess exceptional time management and detail-orientation skills.
  • Ability to work in a team environment with co-workers and volunteers.
  • Proficient with PC and Microsoft Office software such as Outlook, Word, Excel, and others as applicable.
  • Must possess a strong work ethic, honesty and flexibility.
  • Is conscientious in follow-through on job requirements with the ability to be a self-starter. 

 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position also requires adequate vision (close, distance, and peripheral) and the ability to adjust focus. Occasional driving may be required.

 

EXCELLENT BENEFITS

• Health Insurance

• Dental Insurance

• Vision Insurance

• Basic Life Insurance ($50,000) with voluntary options

• Retirement Plan – 403(b)

• 13 Paid Holidays Annually

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Paid Bereavement Leave

• Paid Jury Duty Leave

• Education Reimbursement up to $1,000 per quarter/semester

• Wellness Days – 4 Paid Wellness Days Annually

 

JOB DETAILS

• Job Type: Full-time, Exempt

• Location: Santa Barbara, CA

• Schedule: Monday – Friday, 7:30 AM – 3:30 PM

• Pay Range: $70,000 – $80,000 annually (DOE)

 

TO APPLY

Please submit a cover letter and resume to hr@sv-sb.org

No phone calls or walk-ins please.


For more information regarding St. Vincent’s and its mission, please visit:

https://www.stvincentssb.org/get-involved/careers/