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Program Director Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

VQ

Program Director (QRTP)

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

The Program Director (QRTP, Qualified Residential Treatment program) plays a pivotal role in steering the day-to-day operations, strategy, financial management, and administrative tasks of the ...

Sevita

Program Management Program Director

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$51K/yr

Monday thru Friday 8am-5pm, on call 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 ...

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Program Director information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$28.3K

$75K

$131.4K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in Tucson, AZ is $74,988.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,800.00 and $88,700.00 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 Tucson, AZ? The most popular types of Program jobs in Tucson, AZ are:
What job categories do people searching Program Director jobs in Tucson, AZ look for? The top searched job categories for Program Director jobs in Tucson, AZ are:
What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Program Director jobs? Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Program Director job openings:
Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Director job openings in Tucson, AZ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,988 per year, or $36.1 per hour.
Program Director (QRTP)

Program Director (QRTP)

VQ

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Work That Matters. Support That Lasts.
At VisionQuest (VQ), we serve children, youth, and families during some of the most critical moments of their lives. Our teams help young people overcome challenges, build resilience, and move toward brighter futures.
VQ is a national child, youth, and family services organization providing residential programming, community-based services, and in-home support across the United States. We partner with state and federal agencies to deliver services where the need is greatest and to strengthen the communities we serve.
Every role at VQ contributes to meaningful impact. Whether working directly with youth or supporting the professionals who serve them, your work helps create opportunity and stability for the next generation.
Why build your career at VQ?
Purpose-driven work
Every role contributes to helping children and families succeed.
Fair and responsible compensation
We are committed to transparent and equitable pay practices.
Career growth opportunities
Internal promotions and leadership development pathways.
Professional leadership culture
Accountable, supportive leadership focused on long-term success.
Comprehensive Benefits
• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Company-paid Life and Short-Term Disability
• 401(k) with employer match
At VQ, we are building more than programs.
We are building careers that make a difference.
The Program Director (QRTP, Qualified Residential Treatment program) plays a pivotal role in steering the day-to-day operations, strategy, financial management, and administrative tasks of the program. This role is the main point of contact in emergencies, acting as a dynamic leader to uphold program standards and safety, while also being the primary connection to external agencies, funders, and stakeholders. The Program Director is tasked with implementing policies & procedures and overseeing a trauma-informed, results-focused service delivery. Additionally, the Program Director excels in team building, conflict resolution, and fostering an environment conducive to innovation, problem-solving, and teamwork. This position not only demands flexibility, with a schedule that extends beyond the typical workday to include evenings, weekends, holidays, and on-call duties, but also a commitment to personal leadership growth. The ideal candidate will actively pursue self-improvement and professional development to enhance their leadership skills, ensuring they remain at the forefront of effective program management and team leadership.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Strategic Planning and Innovation:
    • Develop and implement the strategic plan and vision for the program.
    • Proactively improve program performance and quality of services through quality assurance and continuous quality improvement practices.
    • Innovative approach to problem-solving, employee development, and ensuring compliance.
    • Adapt to changes and additional duties with a productive and growth mindset.
  • Leadership and Workforce Development:
    • Take ownership of building a positive culture that supports growth, teamwork and collaboration with an emphasis on trauma informed care.
    • Establish open communication by facilitating a strength-based, feedback-rich environment with clear expectations.
    • Maximize team performance by ensuring high-quality training, supervision, and regular performance evaluations.
    • Oversee and optimize the entire recruitment process and the full span of the employee lifecycle.
    • Direct the development and enhancement of systems, focusing on leveraging technology.
    • Continued growth and development as a leader, leading by example with commitment to self awareness and skill development.
    • Flexible schedule to accommodate staff meetings, unannounced visits, and other program needs to accommodate all shifts.
    • Engage in continuous learning through organizational training and external professional development opportunities, including off site training and meetings.
  • Partnerships and Communication:
    • Functions as the primary liaison with contract, funding, and licensing entities.
    • Cultivate and sustain constructive relationships with stakeholders at local and state levels, thereby amplifying the program's scope and effectiveness.
    • Participate in and facilitate meetings with external stakeholders, effectively managing concerns and conflict with professionalism and openness.
    • Works in collaboration with VisionQuest leadership and other sister programs to ensure continuity and consistency across programs.
    • Willingness to fill vacant roles as needed.
    • Assist with after hours on call responsibilities and unannounced visits.
  • Compliance, Quality Assurance and Continuous Quality Improvement
    • Develop and submit regular reports to both internal and external stakeholders, ensuring transparency and accountability.
    • Guarantee compliance with all relevant organizational, licensing, and funding standards, proactively staying informed of policy and procedure changes.
    • Review findings from the departmental monthly audits, ensuring action plans are developed and completed as needed.
    • Take responsibility for and lead change, risk, and resource management initiatives in order to enhance quality of services and process improvement.
  • Operations Management:
    • Manage financial oversight, adhering to budgetary constraints and operational requirements.
    • Supervises and manages the daily operations of the entire program to ensure a safe therapeutic environment.
    • Directly supervise department leads as assigned or depending on the needs of the program.
  • Other tasks and responsibilities as assigned

SKILLS & ABILITIES:
  • Leadership, Supervision and Conflict Management
  • Excellent interpersonal communication skills with ability to listen actively
  • Knowledge in implementing and ensuring compliance with policies and procedures
  • Budget Management
  • Application of change, risk and resource management principles
  • Adaptability and continuous learning for program improvement and staff development
  • Commitment to professional development and proactive research
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Excellent writing and technical proficiency

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
  • Bachelor's degree plus a minimum of 2 years of experience in child welfare administration, child protective services or a related field

OR
  • Associate's Degree and a minimum of 5 years experience in child welfare administration, child protective services or a related field.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Must be 21 years of age or older.
  • Flexible schedule (evening, weekends, holidays) to facilitate program services.
  • Cleared background checks from appropriate entities, including Child Abuse and Neglect and FBI criminal background.
  • Must have a valid driver's license and be eligible to drive to facilitate program services as required.
  • May be required to obtain and maintain CPR/First Aid and Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) certification.
  • May be required to provide cleared tuberculosis test results.
  • May be required to pass a drug test.

The pay range for this role is:
80,000 - 85,000 USD per year (Tucson, AZ)
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About VQ

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Individual, family and community social assistance

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Tucson, AZ, US

Year founded

1973

Social media

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