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

Safran Cabin

Program Manager

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$88K - $140K/yr

The Program Manager will report to a Business Unit, Division leader or Director of Programs. The Program Manager serves as the Customer(s) primary Point of Contact (POC). * Responsibility, Authority ...

Safran Cabin

Associate Program Manager

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$70K - $113K/yr

Supports Program Manager with all aspects of Program Management: * Comprehends contractual ... directors. * Ability to apply principles of logical or scientific thinking to a wide range of ...

Xerces Society Inc

Executive Director

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$90 - $140/hr

The Executive Director serves as chief administrative officer, responsible for managing and ... Oversee day-to-day operations, including program adherence, staff, budgets, hiring, terminations ...

New

YMCA

Site Director

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

May be responsible for overall program development, growth, evaluation, and expansion. May be ... Direct experience working withchildren in an active recreational and developmental atmosphere.

Balfour Beatty

Facility Director

Lompoc, CA · On-site

$130K - $138K/yr

Responsible for forecasting maintenance needs and instituting an effective time management program ... Director and Community Manager/Director to ensure maintenance team is within budget and on task ...

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Showing results 21-40

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

Program Director information

See Santa Maria, CA salary details

$30.2K

$80.2K

$140.4K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Santa Maria, CA is $80,153.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,300.00 and $94,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.
More about Program Director jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Santa Maria, CA? The most popular types of Program jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:
What cities near Santa Maria, CA are hiring for Program Director jobs? Cities near Santa Maria, CA with the most Program Director job openings:
Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Director job openings in Santa Maria, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,153 per year, or $38.5 per hour.

Family Child Care Program Coordinator

Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo County, Inc.

San Luis Obispo, CA • On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 hours ago

Job description

Helping People. Changing Lives.
Must be fluent in two or more languages, including one that supports the needs of the program and community.
Under the direct supervision of the Family Child Care Manager (FCCM), the Family Child Care Program Coordinator (FCCPC) assists in developing, implementing, and monitoring Family Child Care services for families enrolled in Child, Youth and Family Services (CYFS) programs. The FCCPC coordinates, assists and provides training and technical assistance to staff as defined by federal performance regulations, state requirements, and evidenced-based practices. This position supports CAPSLO's mission by coordinating the family child care program option serving children and families.
What you bring to the table:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education (ECE), Child Development (CD), or related field.
  • Must have three years of experience in a related field. One of the years must be working with family child care.
  • One-year supervisory, administrative, or training/monitoring experience in early childhood education preferred.
  • Must have dependable, insured transportation and valid California Driver License (mileage to be reimbursed) and acceptable driving record. A DMV printout and proof of insurance will be required.

As a Family Child Care Program Coordinator:
  • Collaborate with the Program Director and leadership teams to develop, implement, and update FCC program plans, policies, and procedures aligned with all regulations.
  • Support compliance by monitoring provider files, child files, children's attendance, and overall adherence to performance standards.
  • Coordinate and deliver training for FCC staff and contracted providers on program requirements and curriculum use.
  • Work with Area Managers, Coordinators, and other program staff to integrate education, health, disabilities, nutrition, and family engagement services into FCC programming.
  • Participate in annual reviews, self-assessments, community needs assessments, and data collection to drive program improvement.
  • Strengthen family communication, support parent engagement, and ensure cultural traditions and beliefs are respected.
  • Assist with recruiting FCC providers, representing the program at community events, and building supportive partnerships.
  • Mentor and support Family Child Care Coordinators and participate in CYFS meetings to maintain consistent division-wide practices.
  • Uphold CAPSLO's mission, safety expectations, and organizational standards while carrying out additional responsibilities as needed.

Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
To view the full job description click HERE
#TCHRS
For a comprehensive list of employee perks and benefits, please visit capslo.org/careers.
For questions regarding the application process or open positions, contact the Recruiting Department at 805-544-4355 or email us at recruitment@capslo.org.
EOE/V/ADA/Drug Free Workplace/Asset Infused Organization. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo County, Inc. will consider all qualified applicants without attention to race, sex, age religion, disability, national origin, veteran status, socioeconomic class, or any other protected characteristic.

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