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Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Maintain a safe, clean, and organized facility Requirements Program Directors must be at least 21 years of age and shall meet one of the following: * A graduate degree in a child-related field such ...

The Program Director provides management, oversight, and leadership in compliance with regulations and contractual relationships, as well as aligning with Community Services Group's (CSG) mission and ...

Program Director

Herndon, VA · Hybrid

$216K - $293K/yr

Yes PROGRAM DIRECTOR Oversee complex programs that drive impactful mission outcomes for our customers as a Program Director . Here, you'll see the bigger picture on mission initiatives and where your ...

Program Director

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$82.38 - $100.68/hr

Overview Program Director Salary: $91,529 A nationally recognized comprehensive Health and Human Services Agency, with over 60 programs across New York City and greater New York Area. Samaritan ...

New

NFI North has an opening for a Program Director for our 10-bed Adult Program, located at 60 Ohio Street in Bangor, Maine. This program serves adults living with mental illness. Miller Terraces is a ...

Program Director

Framingham, MA · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Program Director - Residential Services Campus - Framingham The Program Director will be responsible for all aspects of the overall operations for a Male Residential Unit on Wayside's Residential ...

The Program Director is the clinical and administrative leader and is responsible for ensuring compliance with all Progress Foundation policies and procedures and that services are provided in ...

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

Buxton, ME · On-site

$75K/yr

The Program Director is responsible for the oversite of all daily operations, managing a staff team of approximately 25, who in turn provide treatment and educational services for the youth served.

Program Director

Gallatin, TN · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Program Director Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Highpoint Health - Sumner with Ascension Saint Thomas , formerly Sumner Regional Medical Center, is part of Lifepoint Health, a diversified healthcare delivery ...

Program Director Unit: Congregate Housing -Castle III Report to: Senior Director of Transitional Housing Status: Full Time; Regular; Exempt Salary: $75,000 annually Location: East Harlem, NYC Days ...

Program Director Monday-Friday 8am-5pm Highpoint Health - Sumner with Ascension Saint Thomas , formerly Sumner Regional Medical Center, is part of Lifepoint Health, a diversified healthcare delivery ...

Program Director Unit: Congregate Housing -Castle III Report to: Senior Director of Transitional Housing Status: Full Time; Regular; Exempt Salary: $75,000 annually Location: East Harlem, NYC Days ...

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Program Director information

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$29.5K

$78.2K

$137K

How much do program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director in the United States is $78,196.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $92,500.00 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 relevant certifications, along with strong leadership and organizational skills.

What cities are hiring for Program Director jobs?

Cities with the most Program Director job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs?

The most popular types of Program jobs are:

What states have the most Program Director jobs?

States with the most job openings for Program Director jobs include:

Infographic showing various Program Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,196 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description


About This Role

The Director is responsible for the overall management, operation, and administration of the childcare center. The Director ensures the center operates in compliance with all state licensing regulations while maintaining a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for children, families, and staff.


What You'll Do
  • Oversee daily operations of the childcare center
  • Ensure compliance with all state licensing regulations and health and safety standards
  • Hire, train, supervise, and evaluate staff
  • Develop and implement policies and procedures
  • Manage enrollment and maintain accurate records
  • Communicate effectively with parents and families
  • Maintain staff schedules and classroom ratios
  • Ensure curriculum implementation and program quality
  • Oversee budgeting, purchasing, and financial management
  • Conduct staff meetings and professional development

  • Maintain a safe, clean, and organized facility

Requirements

Program Directors must be at least 21 years of age and shall meet one of the following:


  1. A graduate degree in a child-related field such as elementary education, nursing, or recreation from a college or university and six months of programmatic experience.
  2. An endorsement or bachelor's degree in a child-related field such as elementary education, nursing, or recreation from a college or university and one year of programmatic experience.
  3. Forty-eight semester hours or 72 quarter hours of college credit from a college or university of which 12 semester hours or 18 quarter hours are in child-related subjects and one year of programmatic experience.

Program Director without management experience* must have one college course in a business-related field, 10 hours of management training, or one childcare management course that satisfactorily covers the management functions of:


  1. Planning
  2. Budgeting
  3. Staffing; and
  4. Monitoring

Program Director must:

  • Demonstrate overall good health.
  • Demonstrate ability to communicate in clear, concise manner with others, both written and verbally.
  • Management experience is defined as at least six months of on-the-job training in an administrative position that requires supervising, orienting, training, and scheduling staff.

Nice To Haves
  • Previous childcare leadership or administrative experience
  • Knowledge of child development and licensing regulations
  • Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
  • Ability to pass a background check
  • CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)