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Program Manager Jobs in Champaign, IL (NOW HIRING)

PROGRAM REPRESENTATIVE

Champaign, IL

$37K - $43K/yr

Program Representative We continually strive for a workforce that reflects the growing diversity ... Any questions on Reasonable Accommodations can be directed to Central Management Services ...

Our Manager Trainee Position is a paid, full-time, hands-on training program designed to develop and prepare you for the world of Menards Management. As you progress through the Manager Trainee ...

Our Manager Trainee Position is a paid, full-time, hands-on training program designed to develop and prepare you for the world of Menards Management. As you progress through the Manager Trainee ...

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Program Manager information

See Champaign, IL salary details

$38.6K

$107.6K

$157.2K

How much do program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager in Champaign, IL is $107,618.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,600.00 and $132,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are program managers?

Program managers are professionals responsible for overseeing multiple related projects within an organization, ensuring they align with strategic goals and deliver expected outcomes. They coordinate the efforts of project managers, manage resources, set priorities, and address risks and issues that arise across the program. Unlike project managers who focus on individual projects, program managers take a broader view, ensuring that all projects within a program work together effectively to achieve long-term business objectives.

What jobs make $1,000,000 a year?

Program managers in large corporations or technology firms can earn over $1 million annually, especially with bonuses, stock options, and executive-level responsibilities. High-level executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions also frequently reach or exceed this income level, often requiring extensive experience, leadership skills, and advanced education. These roles typically involve strategic decision-making, significant accountability, and long working hours.

Can I be a PM without experience?

While some entry-level program management roles may accept candidates with limited experience, most Program Managers are expected to have several years of relevant experience, strong organizational skills, and knowledge of project management tools like MS Project or Jira. Gaining certifications such as PMP can also improve prospects for those new to the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Program Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Program Manager, you need strong project management skills, strategic planning abilities, and a relevant degree, often supported by certifications like PMP or Agile. Familiarity with tools such as Microsoft Project, Jira, or Asana is essential for tracking progress and managing resources. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help you motivate teams and navigate complex stakeholder environments. These competencies ensure that programs are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with organizational goals.

What jobs pay 200,000 a year in the USA?

Program Managers in large organizations or those with extensive experience, certifications, and specialized skills can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-paying roles often require leadership, strategic planning, and project management expertise, along with industry-specific knowledge and advanced certifications like PMP or PgMP.

What are some common challenges Program Managers face when coordinating cross-functional teams?

Program Managers often encounter challenges such as aligning priorities across diverse teams, managing conflicting stakeholder expectations, and ensuring clear communication among departments with different workflows. Navigating these challenges requires strong negotiation and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to build consensus and foster collaboration. Successful Program Managers proactively establish regular check-ins, promote transparency, and adapt strategies to keep projects on track and maintain team engagement.

What Is the Job of a Program Manager?

The job of a program manager is to plan, organize, and coordinate management programs or external programs for a business or institution. As a program manager, your duties vary depending on the type of organization for which you work, but many of the responsibilities for this role are similar or overlap. You typically supervise numerous associates and analysts who help prepare data and assessments about current programming and how it can be improved. You help to implement new programs for employees or customers and promote them through HR or outreach coordinators and marketing professionals. You also assess individual projects and how they interact with one another.

What is the role of the program manager?

A program manager oversees multiple related projects within an organization to ensure they align with strategic goals. They coordinate teams, manage budgets, and track progress, often using project management tools like MS Project or Jira. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Program Manager vs Project Coordinator?

AspectProgram ManagerProject Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree, PMP or similar certifications often preferredUsually requires a bachelor’s degree; certifications like CAPM are common
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects within a program, strategic focusSupports project teams, handles administrative tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries like IT, construction, healthcareCommon in similar industries, supporting project execution

The Program Manager focuses on managing multiple related projects to achieve strategic goals, while the Project Coordinator supports individual projects with administrative and logistical tasks. Both roles require coordination skills, but the Program Manager has a broader, strategic scope.

What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Champaign, IL? The most popular types of Program jobs in Champaign, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager jobs in Champaign, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager jobs in Champaign, IL are:
What cities near Champaign, IL are hiring for Program Manager jobs? Cities near Champaign, IL with the most Program Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Program Manager job openings in Champaign, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,618 per year, or $51.7 per hour.
Visiting Energy Research Program Specialist (Hybrid)

Visiting Energy Research Program Specialist (Hybrid)

University of Illinois

Urbana, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Visiting Energy Research Program Specialist (Hybrid)
Vice Pres Econ Dev and Innov
Sponsorship for Work authorization is not available for this position.
System Office positions, such as this position, are noteligible for the employee referral program.
Posting Category:
The EnergySense Resilience Center (EnergySense) is currently searching for a Visiting Energy Research Program Specialist to work with EnergySense's Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) Workforce Program. This position is based in Champaign, Illinois, with potential options for hybrid remote or remote work. EnergySense is sponsored and funded by federal and state agencies including the Illinois State Energy Office at the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Opportunity, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources; the US Environmental Protection Agency; local government agencies; and other funding sources. EnergySense is a center at the University of Illinois System with a mission to empower organizations with practical solutions for climate, energy, and sustainability. EnergySense achieves its mission through a wide range of programs in energy efficiency, renewable energy development, greenhouse gas reduction, sustainable business, and clean energy workforce development.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Technical and Research
  • Perform clean energy and sustainability research, including workforce program best practices, stakeholder engagement approaches to inform program implementation, and modeling alternative scenarios and sustainable solutions.
  • Produce research materials including literature reviews, manuscripts, reports, energy program manuals, training guides, and case studies.
  • Perform program development to support implementation of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) workforce and contractor development programs.
  • Support inter-office communication and coordination via CEJA website content development, periodic updates, and working group participation.F
  • acilitate external communication with CEJA stakeholders through DCEO email and other resources.

Outreach and Education
  • Promote awareness of EnergySense Resilience Center energy and sustainability programs and best practices through participation in workshops, webinars, professional conferences, and other related events on a regional scale.
  • Develop EnergySense Resilience Center's client base through network interactions and direct client contacts.
  • Research energy and sustainability practices and literature to produce educational materials.
  • Develop and revise outreach and reference materials, including fact sheets, presentations, program manuals, and digital media.
  • Develop and present slide decks, training content and educational materials for presentations, workshops, discussion groups, and asynchronous learning platforms for students and professional audiences.
  • Participate in workshop planning and implementation.

Operations
  • Track and report specific activities towards grants and project plans.
  • Follow up with clients to track implementation of sustainability solutions and to provide technical assistance.
  • Contribute to quarterly and annual progress reporting.
  • Other relevant duties as assigned to further the mission of Energy Sense Resilience Center.

QUALIFICATIONS
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree that includes a background in public administration, public policy, education, business administration, social work, urban planning, communications, management, or other related field.
  • 2 years of experience in any of the following areas: educational content development, public sector outreach & engagement, administrative experience within a public or business organization, or design and/or management of a workforce or human services grant program.
  • Experience developing and delivering public presentations in a variety of settings.

Preferred:
  • Experience working with or administering workforce and/or human service programs.
  • Experience developing program policies and procedures related to workforce or human services programs.
  • Experience with developing and/or revising grant programs, reviewing funding applications, or providing grantee technical assistance.
  • Experience working with underserved and environmental justice communities.

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE
  • Excellent analytical skills and communication skills (written and verbal). Ability to research and analyze information and data to make appropriate conclusions and recommendations.
  • Excellent organizational skills, such as time management, task prioritization, follow-through, and ability to meet deadlines.
  • Ability to work in teams.
  • Knowledge and interest within the clean energy industry including an awareness of industry trends and needs for workforce development in Illinois.
  • Ability to use software such as Microsoft Office Suite and web-based information management tools

APPOINTMENT INFORMATION
This is a Full Time academic professional position. The expected start date is 7/16/2026. Sponsorship for Work Authorization is not available for this position.
The budgeted salary range for the position is $63,000.00 - 72,000.00. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
APPLICATION PROCEDURES & DEADLINE INFORMATION
For full consideration, please click APPLY NOW on this page to submit an application, references and cover letter through our job board by 6 pm on 6/18/2026. Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
System HR Talent contact: Johanna Mayer at johannam@uillinois.edu is available for further information on this specific search.
System Human Resource Services
(217) 333-2600
erhr@uillinois.edu
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act to complete the application and/or interview process. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodations portal, or by contacting the System Human Resource Services, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at 217-333-2600, or by emailing ADAaccessibility@uillinois.edu.
Requisition ID: 9000980
Job Category: Academic Professional Extended Search
Campus Location: Urbana
LinkedIn Code: #LI-JM1

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About University of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Illinois, located in Urbana, Illinois, US, is a prominent entity in the higher education sector. Operating its official functions through its website uillinois.edu, the institution provides a range of educational programs and services. The University was founded in 1867 and has since grown dramatically both in size and reputation. Its core values are embodied in its mission to enhance the lives of its students and citizens in the state, nation, and world through leadership in learning, discovery, engagement, and economic development. The university boasts several notable achievements including producing Nobel laureates and Pulitzer prize winners. It is renowned for its research programs and is known for significant advancements across various fields including engineering, science, and humanities.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Urbana, IL, US

Year founded

1974

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