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Program Director Jobs in Independence, MO (NOW HIRING)

Embark Behavioral Health

Program Director

Independence, MO · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Embark Independence is hiring a Program Director to lead a residential program serving adolescents. In this role, you'll coach and develop frontline leaders, partner with families and clinicians, and ...

Embark Behavioral Health

Program Director

Independence, MO · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Embark Independence is hiring a Program Director to lead a residential program serving adolescents. In this role, you'll coach and develop frontline leaders, partner with families and clinicians, and ...

Embark Behavioral Health

Program Director

Independence, MO · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Embark Independence is hiring a Program Director to lead a residential program serving adolescents. In this role, you'll coach and develop frontline leaders, partner with families and clinicians, and ...

Sevita

Program Director

Kansas City, KS · On-site

Program Director, IDD Services Have you been looking for a fantastic role to continue your career path in Social and Human Services? Look no further. This role is critical to our success and ...

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All JobsProgram JobsProgram Director JobsProgram Director Jobs in Independence, MO

Program Director information

See Independence, MO salary details

$26.9K

$71.3K

$124.9K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Independence, MO is $71,295.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,300.00 and $84,300.00 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 jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Program Directors in certain industries, such as healthcare, technology, or large nonprofit organizations, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities. High-level executive roles like CEOs or CFOs often surpass this threshold, but they are not specific to the Program Director position. Compensation varies widely based on industry, organization size, and geographic location.

Is a Program Director higher than a program manager?

A Program Director typically holds a higher-level leadership role than a program manager, overseeing multiple projects or programs and setting strategic goals. Program managers focus on managing individual projects within a program, executing plans, and ensuring deliverables. The hierarchy can vary by organization, but generally, Program Directors have broader responsibilities and authority than program managers.

What is the role of a Program Director?

A Program Director oversees the planning, implementation, and management of multiple related projects within an organization to achieve strategic goals. They coordinate teams, allocate resources, monitor progress, and ensure programs meet deadlines and budgets, often requiring strong leadership and communication skills. The role may also involve reporting to stakeholders and ensuring compliance with policies and standards.

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 area. Many roles also prefer or require a master's degree or relevant certifications, along with experience in leadership, project management, or the specific program area.
More about Program Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Independence, MO? The most popular types of Program jobs in Independence, MO are:
What job categories do people searching Program Director jobs in Independence, MO look for? The top searched job categories for Program Director jobs in Independence, MO are:
What cities near Independence, MO are hiring for Program Director jobs? Cities near Independence, MO with the most Program Director job openings:
Program Director jobs near you
Program Director

Program Director

Embark Behavioral Health

Independence, MO • On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Embark Behavioral Health rating

5.1

Company rating: 5.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview
Full-Time, On-Site
Location: 3205 N Twyman Rd, Independence, MO 64058
Annual Salary: $80,000 to $90,000, depending on experience
Looking for a leadership role where you can make a real impact? Embark Independence is hiring a Program Director to lead a residential program serving adolescents. In this role, you'll coach and develop frontline leaders, partner with families and clinicians, and ensure a safe, consistent, and well-run structured environment where both teens and staff can grow and succeed.
Responsibilities
  • Partner with the Operations Director and leadership team to guide daily operations and program performance
  • Supervise, coach, and develop residential leaders, including team supervisors and house managers
  • Design and deliver ongoing training for frontline leaders, building consistency and accountability across shifts
  • Create and maintain a structured leadership training program to strengthen team effectiveness
  • Collaborate with families, clinicians, and internal teams to support a consistent residential experience
  • Ensure compliance with state licensing, accreditation, and safety standards
  • Manage staffing coverage, schedules, budgets, and program metrics
  • Lead crisis response and operational risk management, participating in on-call coverage as needed

Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Education, or related field
  • At least 3 years of leadership experience in residential treatment, behavioral health, or similar setting
  • Strong understanding of adolescent development and trauma-informed care
  • Proven ability to lead and develop teams with accountability and consistency
  • Clear communication, sound judgment, and strong organizational skills
  • Proven ability to plan, implement, and adjust in a fast-paced residential environment
  • Valid Missouri driver's license
  • CPR/First Aid and CPI certification (or ability to obtain)

Benefits
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance - Multiple plan options including PPO and HDHPs with HSA eligibility and company contributions.
  • Paid Parental Leave - Up to 6 weeks fully paid for exempt employees
  • Life & Disability Coverage - Company-paid life, AD&D, and long-term disability; voluntary life and optional short-term disability available.
  • 401(k) with Company Match - Retirement savings with matching contributions after eligibility period.
  • PTO & Holidays - Competitive PTO accrual plans and paid holidays throughout the year.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - Free, confidential support for life's challenges.

Embark is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to enriching the therapeutic and healing experience we offer through the diversity of our employees and community. We actively seek to recruit and support a broadly diverse staff who contribute to our excellence, diversity of viewpoints and experiences, and relevance in a global society.
Embark does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws. Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities.
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