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Program Director Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

The Program Director serves as a key partner to the Vice Chair and operations team leaders, convening stakeholders, coordinating across the vertical, and ensuring the successful execution of ...

Program Supervisor

Kasson, MN · On-site

$21.89/hr

Duties are split between providing direct support, professional or program activities, and supervision. * Facilitate community involvement by accompanying individuals on outings in the community or ...

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Program Director information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$30K

$79.5K

$139.3K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Rochester, MN is $79,485.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,900.00 and $94,000.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Rochester, MN? The most popular types of Program jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What job categories do people searching Program Director jobs in Rochester, MN look for? The top searched job categories for Program Director jobs in Rochester, MN are:
What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Program Director jobs? Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Program Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Program Director job openings in Rochester, MN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,485 per year, or $38.2 per hour.
Program Director, Rochester Residential Group Homes

Program Director, Rochester Residential Group Homes

Cardinal of Minnesota, Ltd.

Rochester, MN • On-site

$52K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Cardinal Of Minnesota rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Cardinal is searching for a Program Director to join our culture-driven leadership team in Rochester!
Cardinal of Minnesota is currently seeking a Program Director responsible for the overall operation of their designated program sites in the Rochester region! This is an exempt position, responsible for the oversight of 5 programs. Although this position does enjoy a Monday-Friday schedule, flexibility is required based on the needs of designated program sites and on-call responsibilities. Base wage starting at $52,000/year.
We're looking for a compassionate individual to:
  • Establish a working knowledge of all required licensing procedures according to County, State, and Federal regulations
  • Review, update and manage Cardinal of Minnesota's audit procedures for each designated program site
  • Participate in hiring key staff and assist Residential Supervisors, conduct training, and work closely with Residential Supervisors to ensure all aspects of their duties are completed
  • Assist with the management of personnel and payroll records
  • Assist in the development, writing, and monitoring of all client programs; attend client medical appointments as needed
  • Make recommendations to the organization for the addition, expansion, or change of services or service systems

Qualifications and Skills:
  • Ability to have FUN and motivated to make a difference in the lives of others!
  • 18 years of age or older and ability to pass a MN Criminal Background screen
  • Valid Driver's License and acceptable motor vehicle record
  • Past behavioral experience and minimum of one year supervisory experience working with individuals with disabilities or similar field; previous personnel management preferred
  • Due to the safety and regulatory requirements and the need to communicate and supervisor our clients, an applicant must have adequate vision, reading, writing, and documentation skills and comprehension of the English language; possess adequate computer skills
  • Be able to walk, squat, stoop/bend, kneel, climb stairs, be able to lift up to 50 pounds, push and pull against potential resistance and be able to implement non-physical and physical interventions with people supported when needed
  • Must demonstrate commitment to the mission and core values of COM and have the ability to actively participate in a team approach atmosphere

Compliments of the Nest:
  • Competitive starting wages
  • Vacation and sick time
  • FT Benefit eligible employees are offered medical plans through an ICHRA (Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement) and ancillary benefits that include dental, vision, hospital indemnity, accident, voluntary term life insurance and company paid term life insurance
  • Wellness Reimbursement Program
  • 22% Verizon Discount
  • 401(k) with a generous company match!
  • Clear career path with our Career Development plans which leads to greater opportunities for advancement
  • Company outings and events
  • FUN and rewarding work environment!

In keeping with our mission to provide a safe, happy, healthy living environment for our clients, Cardinal of Minnesota, Ltd. provides residential and support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Cardinal was founded in 1995 and operates 44 residential homes in Minnesota, serving 250 clients and is comprised of a workforce of approximately 425 employees. Cardinal operates in the following communities: Rochester, Winona, Austin, Red Wing, Spring Valley, Harmony, Chatfield, La Crescent, Mantorville, and Bemidji.
Cardinal of Minnesota is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are based on job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, or any other protected status. All applicants over the age of 18 are encouraged to apply.