ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Program Director Jobs in Santa Barbara, CA (NOW HIRING)

Channel Islands YMCA

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProgram JobsProgram Director JobsProgram Director Jobs in Santa Barbara, CA

Program Director information

See Santa Barbara, CA salary details

$32.8K

$87K

$152.4K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Santa Barbara, CA is $87,007.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $102,900.00 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 higher, along with experience in leadership, project management, or the specific sector they oversee.
More about Program Director jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Santa Barbara, CA?

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

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

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

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

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

Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Director job openings in Santa Barbara, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,007 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Channel Islands YMCA

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

$26 - $31/hr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 hours ago

Job description

BENEFITS THAT BENEFIT YOU

  • FREE YMCA Family Gym Membership and Program Discounts
  • FREE Medical HMO Plans Available, Long-term Disability, Employee Assistance Programs, Basic Life Insurance 
  • Affordable Medical PPO Option
  • 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 development including budgeting and meeting growth expectations
  • Management of financial controls including registration processing, implementation of accounting best practices, administration of grants and contracts, working with vendors, management of accounts receivable and payable, processing scholarships, and control of department wages
  • Develop and implement marketing plans for department growth (especially grass-roots). Work with the Marketing Department on collateral development and brand maintenance
  • Ensure compliance with established procedures, policies and standards related to health and safety. Complete routine risk assessments and correct deficiencies. Report incidents promptly.
  • Is a member of the branch safety team and is a first responder to emergency situations
  • Provide for supervision of a staff team including hiring, scheduling, enforcement of expectations, compliance with association standards, coordination with Human Resources, regular communication, and modeling of best practices
  • Responsible for providing growth and development opportunities for a staff team including goal setting, annual evaluation, coaching, and meeting/developing training plans
  • Meet program quality expectations outlined in association procedures, policies and standards for the department as evident on surveys, observations, and audits. This includes character education and Healthy Eating and Physical Activity (HEPA) standards
  • Provide for the routine management of programs such as developing program proposals, implementation of offerings, evaluating data, and communication of results
  • Lead an annual campaign team by meeting volunteer and financial goals. Additionally, support branch annual fundraising events
  • Work with volunteers in various capacities (i.e. committees, program support) by recruiting, screening, training, and evaluating
  • Provide general oversight to the branch environment including serving as a manager on duty, enforcing membership expectations, cross marketing, and working with peers on branch goals

Our Commitment to Belonging

At the Channel Islands YMCA, we are committed to building bridges within our communities. We aspire to create spaces, experiences, and a culture where all people belong and feel connected.

#CIYMCAHIGH

  • Must be at least 21 years old
  • Bachelor's degree in related field, related work experience may offset degree requirement
  • Childcare Program Director must meet Site Supervisor requirements
  • Aquatics Program Director must meet Lifeguard requirements
  • 2+ years previous work experience in related field
  • Complete required certifications within 60 days of hire
  • Complete all required Branch and Position specific trainings as required within two weeks of hire
  • Ability to obtain a criminal record clearance
  • Maintain a valid California driver's license, active participation in the California DMV Pull Program, an acceptable driving record and approval status as determined by the Channel Islands YMCA and/or its insurance carrier

Apply