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Program Director Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Shades of Development

Afterschool Director

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$42K - $45K/yr

This position is for Site Director of the SHADES Afterschool Program at Mill Creek Elementary School . At SHADES of Development, the Site Director is the heart of each SHADES of Development program.

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All JobsProgram JobsProgram Director JobsProgram Director Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN

Program Director information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$28.2K

$74.8K

$131K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Oak Ridge, TN is $74,759.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,700.00 and $88,400.00 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 Oak Ridge, TN? The most popular types of Program jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What job categories do people searching Program Director jobs in Oak Ridge, TN look for? The top searched job categories for Program Director jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Program Director jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Program Director job openings:
Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Director job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,759 per year, or $35.9 per hour.
Program Director

Program Director

Boston Government Services, LLC

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Boston Government Services, LLC. (BGS) is seeking a Program Director to join our team in Paducah, KY. This position is contingent upon contract award.


BGS is an engineering, technology, and security firm helping to advance missions of national importance for government programs, national laboratories, national security facilities, nuclear operations, and complex projects. We support clients at every stage, from strategic planning and program management to the execution of engineering and technical activities. We work to attract and retain the best talent because the best talent delivers the best results for our clients. Our capabilities are based on our experience in complex, secure, and highly regulated environments. We leverage our experience and capabilities to provide mission-driven solutions tuned to our client's mission needs and strategic direction.


Work that Matters. People that Matter More. At BGS, we believe meaningful work starts with great people. We foster a culture built on respect, collaboration, and accountability—where employees are empowered to contribute ideas, grow professionally, and make an impact. We care about our employees’ well-being through competitive benefits, clear expectations, and an environment that values both excellence and connection.


If you align with BGS’ company values and culture, we would love for you to explore opportunities to join our growing team by checking out the job description below!


Responsibilities:

  • Executive oversight, client interface, contractual authority.
  • Serve as the primary interface with project leadership.
  • Ensure program alignment with schedule, scope, and expectations.
  • Maintain independence and contractual integrity of AHJ Functions.
  • Other duties as assigned.


Requirements:

  • BA/BS Degree in engineering or related discipline plus 15 years of direct experience.
  • Experience with large-scale infrastructure, DOE/ commercial nuclear programs, program leadership.
  • Successful drug screening.
  • Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a security or clearance badge.


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Professional Engineering License (KY or equivalent by endorsement) along with multiple discipline exposure.


Location/Work Arrangement:

  • This position is a fully onsite position in Paducah, KY.
  • Schedule is full-time, Monday – Friday 40-hour week.


Benefits:

BGS offers a competitive total compensation package to eligible employees. Benefits include Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Paid Vacation, 401K, Long and Short-Term Disability.


EEO:

BGS is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.


Exclusive Agreement Disclaimer:

BGS has standing contracts with federal agencies throughout the United States. We require an affirmative exclusive agreement to represent all candidates to our clients. By submitting this application, you are consenting to allow BGS to represent you as a candidate for the role in which you are applying.


Schedule is full-time, Monday – Friday 40-hour week.

Apply