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Program Officer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Navy

Chaplain Candidate Program Officer

Gary, IN · On-site

This program allows full-time seminary students (pursuing Master of Divinity (MDiv)) to be commissioned as a Navy Officer while completing theological studies at an accredited seminary or graduate ...

Youth Guidance

Chief Strategy Officer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$180 - $230/hr

Program Portfolio, Sustainability & Trade Off DecisionsIn partnership with the Chief Program Officer, who oversees program strategy, quality, clinical effectiveness, and participant outcomes, and the ...

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All JobsProgram Officer JobsProgram Officer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Program Officer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$34.5K

$103.5K

$160.3K

How much do program officer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for program officer in Chicago, IL is $103,472.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,700.00 and $136,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a program officer?

A program officer works for a non-profit organization or foundation to oversee the development of programs and learning activities and seek out grants to fund these programs. In this job, you oversee projects, manage budgets, and develop proposals to grantees as some of your duties. You need experience aligning these programs with the overall mission of the foundation or non-profit. Throughout your career, you work with a variety of people and organizations. Important qualifications include strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a program officer?

To thrive as a Program Officer, you need strong project management, analytical, and grant-writing skills, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with program evaluation tools, budgeting software, and donor management systems is often required. Exceptional communication, organizational abilities, and stakeholder engagement are key soft skills that distinguish top candidates. These skills are critical for effectively designing, implementing, and monitoring programs that meet organizational goals and deliver meaningful impact.

How does a program officer typically collaborate with stakeholders to ensure program success?

Program Officers work closely with a variety of stakeholders, including grantees, partner organizations, internal teams, and sometimes beneficiaries. Regular communication and relationship-building are crucial to understanding needs, monitoring progress, and addressing challenges as they arise. Program Officers often facilitate meetings, coordinate reporting, and provide technical assistance to ensure that all parties are aligned on program objectives and deliverables. This collaborative approach not only supports the successful implementation of programs but also fosters a learning environment for continuous improvement.

What is the difference between Program Officer vs Project Coordinator?

AspectProgram OfficerProject Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree; often a master's in a related fieldBachelor's degree; relevant certifications optional
Work EnvironmentNonprofit, government, or international organizations managing multiple projectsProject-specific tasks within organizations, supporting project execution
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in NGOs, government agencies, and foundationsCommon in corporate, nonprofit, and government sectors

While both roles involve managing projects, a Program Officer oversees multiple projects or programs, focusing on strategic goals and stakeholder engagement. A Project Coordinator handles specific project tasks, ensuring timely execution. The Program Officer's role is broader and more strategic, whereas the Project Coordinator's role is more operational and task-focused.

How much do program officers make in the US?

Program officers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, organization, and location. Senior or specialized program officers can earn over $100,000, especially in large nonprofits or government agencies. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What are the duties of a Program Officer?

A Program Officer manages and oversees specific projects or programs within an organization, ensuring they meet goals, stay within budget, and adhere to policies. They coordinate with stakeholders, monitor progress, evaluate outcomes, and prepare reports, often using project management tools. Strong organizational, communication, and analytical skills are essential for success in this role.
More about Program Officer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Program Officer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Program Officer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Program Officer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Program Officer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Program Officer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Officer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Program Officer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Program Officer job openings:

Program Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Officer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,472 per year, or $49.7 per hour.

Chief Program Officer

KEES/Alford Executive Search

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Concordia Place:
View the complete Opportunity Guide here: https://www.kees2success.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Opportunity-Guide-2025-Concordia-Place-Chief-Program-Officer.pdf
"Concordia Place disrupts social inequities through access to top-quality education, enrichment, and hands-on experiences that include all children, teens, and families-together."
Concordia Place seeks its first Chief Program Officer (CPO) to be a pivotal, executive role created to serve as the primary strategic partner to the CEO. This energetic leader will be the chief architect of Concordia Place's mission delivery, responsible for translating the organizational vision into tangible, high-quality, and scalable program strategies. The CPO provides executive oversight for the entire multi-site, intergenerational program portfolio, including Early Childhood Education, the School-Age 365 program, Teen Leadership initiatives, and Home Visiting services. The successful candidate will be responsible for implementing plans that drive efficiency, innovation, and impact in alignment with Concordia Place's mission to support children and families.
The CPO will be directly responsible for the daily leadership of the organization's programs. Reporting to the President and CEO, the CPO will initially manage 4 direct reports, including the Vice President of Program Services, the Director of Quality Assurance, the Director of Teen Programs, and the Home Visitor Manager.

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