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Program Manager Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Lutheran Services Carolinas

PROGRAM MANAGER

Columbia, SC · On-site

$55K/yr

Additionally, the Assistant Program Director may provide case management as determined by the Program Director. Essential Functions: Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with ...

State of South Carolina

Research Program Manager

Columbia, SC · On-site

$58K - $64K/yr

Job Responsibilities Research Program Manager Department: CON College of Nursing Advertised Salary Range: Part/Full Time: Full Time About UofSC From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of ...

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All JobsProgram JobsProgram Manager JobsProgram Manager Jobs in Columbia, SC

Program Manager information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$35.6K

$99.4K

$145.2K

How much do program manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for program manager in Columbia, SC is $99,416.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,500.00 and $122,600.00 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 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 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 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.

More about Program Manager jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Program jobs in Columbia, SC? The most popular types of Program jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What job categories do people searching Program Manager jobs in Columbia, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Program Manager jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Program Manager jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Program Manager job openings:
Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Manager job openings in Columbia, SC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,416 per year, or $47.8 per hour.
PROGRAM MANAGER

PROGRAM MANAGER

Lutheran Services Carolinas

Columbia, SC

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Reporting to the Program Director, the Assistant Director is primarily responsible for providing support to the Program Director. The Assistant Director is responsible for providing supervision to Direct Service Professionals and in the absence of the Program Director provides guidance to all program staff. Additionally, the Assistant Program Director may provide case management as determined by the Program Director.

Essential Functions: Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

1. Recruit, hire, train, evaluate and supervise the Direct Service Professionals. Promote teamwork, coordinate the workload of staff, delegate responsibilities and maintain positive staff morale. Complete 90 day and annual evaluations on staff; including supervision as specified by program standards.

  1. Administer the Department of Social Services policy and procedure related to the scope of work.
  2. Attend staff meetings to ensure effective and efficient service coordination.
  3. Conduct weekly meetings/follow-up with program lead to being acted on clients' needs.
  4. Ensure program operations and services are consistent with established agencies, state, federal and licensing standards and requirements.
  5. Maintain, enhance, and develop positive relationships with referral sources, state and federal agencies, volunteer and community agencies, employers and individuals.
  6. Coordinate vacation schedules to ensure adequate coverage and availability of services.
  1. Perform other duties as requested.

Education: Master's degree in social work or equivalent degree in education, psychology, sociology or other relevant behavioral science degree with two years' experience in program management or as director of a licensed childcare program, bachelor’s degree in social work or equivalent in in education, psychology, sociology or other relevant behavioral science degree with five years in child welfare acclimatation, child protective services or program management.

Experience: Previous experience with case management and social services required. Two years' experience in supervisory management and administration.

Specific skills/abilities: Awareness and sensitivity to the service population's cultural and socioeconomic characteristics are required. Excellent interpersonal communication skills are necessary, as is the ability to work cooperatively with a wide range of organizations, including local, state and federal government agencies

Specialized knowledge. licenses. etc: High level of computer literacy is required, with proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Power Point) as well as Internet and e-mail applications. Valid SC driver's license.

Working Conditions/Physical Requirements: Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions).

  1. Usual office conditions apply, sitting at a desk in front of a computer for extended periods.
  2. Ability to bend, stoop (to floor), reach overhead.
  3. Ability to lift and carry a minimum of 10 pounds.
  4. Driving clients in personal vehicle may be required.
  5. Ambulatory throughout all locations.

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