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Program Operations Director Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

HIRE360

Assistant Program Director

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$75K - $85K/yr

This position is responsible for supporting fiscal oversight, operational planning, and data-informed decision making to enhance program impact. Additionally, the Assistant Program Director ensures ...

YMCA

Program Director

Crown Point, IN · On-site

$21/hr

The Program Director is responsible for but not limited to: managing program operation, development and growth, participant experience and satisfaction, member and staff retention and safety, staff ...

The Salvation Army

Program Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$72K/yr

Program Director LOCATION/DEPT: Adele and Robert Stern Red Shield Community Center PEOPLE MANAGER ... Program operational needs. * Purchasing, supply and equipment requirements. * Staffing needs.

AAR

Director, Global Warehouse Operations

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

Description The Warehouse Operations Director is responsible for the operational excellence of all ... Generous paid time off program * Professional development and career advancement opportunities ...

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All JobsProgram Operations JobsProgram Operations Director JobsProgram Operations Director Jobs in Chicago, IL

Program Operations Director information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$35K

$110.9K

$184.9K

How much do program operations director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for program operations director in Chicago, IL is $110,926.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,800.00 and $139,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Program Operations Director do?

A Program Operations Director oversees the daily operations and strategic management of programs within an organization. They ensure that programs are executed efficiently, meet organizational goals, and comply with relevant regulations and standards. Their responsibilities often include coordinating between departments, managing budgets, supervising staff, and evaluating program effectiveness. This role requires strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills to keep programs running smoothly and achieving desired outcomes.

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

To thrive as a Program Operations Director, you need strong leadership abilities, program management experience, and a background in business administration or a related field. Proficiency with project management software, data analysis tools, and relevant certifications like PMP are often important. Excellent communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills help you motivate teams and navigate complex operational challenges. These skills and qualities are critical for ensuring that programs run efficiently, achieve goals, and align with organizational strategy.

What are some common challenges a Program Operations Director faces in managing cross-functional teams?

A Program Operations Director often encounters challenges related to aligning priorities and communication across diverse departments such as finance, HR, and project management. Coordinating these groups requires strong organizational and interpersonal skills to ensure everyone is working towards shared objectives and deadlines. Additionally, adapting to shifting project scopes and managing resource constraints are frequent hurdles, making flexibility and problem-solving essential traits for success in this role.

What is the difference between Program Operations Director vs Program Manager?

AspectProgram Operations DirectorProgram Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple programs, strategic planning, and high-level operationsManages individual programs, project execution, and team coordination
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree, often a master’s, with experience in operations or managementUsually requires a bachelor’s degree, with project management experience
Work EnvironmentExecutive-level setting, strategic planning, cross-department collaborationProject teams, day-to-day program execution, stakeholder communication
Industry UsageCommon in nonprofit, government, and corporate sectors for overseeing multiple initiativesUsed across industries for managing specific projects within programs

The Program Operations Director focuses on strategic oversight and managing multiple programs at a high level, while the Program Manager handles the execution of individual programs. Both roles require relevant experience and credentials, but the Director operates at a broader, more strategic level.

What are popular job titles related to Program Operations Director jobs in Chicago, IL? For Program Operations Director jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Program Operations Director jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Program Operations Director jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Program Operations Director jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Program Operations Director job openings:
Program Operations Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Operations Director job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,926 per year, or $53.3 per hour.
Program Site Director

Program Site Director

NORTHBROOK PARK DISTRICT

Northbrook, IL

$20 - $26/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Join our amazing team as a Program Site Director. This position is responsible for supervising the day-to-day program operations of an assigned school, camp or youth recreation program. Provides supervisory oversight and direction to counselors or staff on duty to ensure the safety and engagement of participants and provides customer service and communication to program parents and guardians. Assigned areas include but are not limited to Before and after-school care programs, Adventure Campus, summer day camps, seasonal school break camps, school day off programs, special events, and other recreation programs as assigned. Assists with planning related programs as assigned. Demonstrates commitment to the Mission, Vision and Guiding Principles of the District.

Pay & Schedule:
Starting at $20.00 Per Hour

This is a IMRF part-time, non-exempt position.

Monday-Friday 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 2:15 PM - 6:00 PM (split shift), 8:00 AM - 3:15 PM during summer and days off school

Required to work occasional weekends and holidays 

Anticipated Start Date: 8/3/2026

Duties & Responsibilities:  

  • Responsible for oversight and planning of daily activities of an assigned school, camp or youth recreation program or event. Oversight includes daily program activities, snacks, homework, games, crafts, active play or quiet time.
  • Supervises children in a related program or event from arrival to dismissal. Supervises daily participant pick-up, ensuring only authorized persons transport the children/participants.
  • Ensures the safety of participants and staff and promotes an inclusive and caring environment.
  • Assists in developing program goals and coordinating implementation by planning activities required to achieve the desired results.
  • Creates, plans and implements activities for program participants.
  • Assists in establishing or improving operational procedures by making and implementing recommendations.
  • Tracks program participant attendance by accurately tracking attendance and conducting routine head counts routinely.
  • Plans and supervises engaging off-site activities for school day-off programs and other programs as directed.
  • Maintains open communication with parents regarding program updates and provides feedback on their child’s progress. Seeks guidance and support from supervisor when addressing challenges or concerns.
  • Collaborates positively with internal and external customers, acting as a liaison between camp counselors, instructors, parents, and children and the direct supervisor.
  • Keeps worksite and program locations neat and clean and ensures all equipment and supplies are put away in the proper place.
  • Maintains an updated inventory of complete and undamaged items, determines supplies needed and assists in securing them.
  • Supervises counselors and staff in leading the program activities and interacting with program participants in an appropriate and safe manner.
  • Conducts staff performance evaluations as directed.
  • Conducts, attends and/or participates in staff meetings and trainings as required.
  • Diligently follows and adheres to all safety policies and procedures, policies in the Employee Handbook and related operations manuals issued by the Northbrook Park District.
  • Follows safe work practices.
  • Performs related duties as assigned.

Benefits

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Group Life Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • AFLAC Indemnity Plans
  • Defined Pension IMRF (Retirement, Disability, Life)
  • Deferred Retirement 457 Plan 
  • Paid Holidays
  • PTO
  • Sick Days
  • Floating Holidays
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Employee Recreation Benefits

To view job description, click here.

Must be at least 18 years of age and have two (2) years of experience working hands-on with children. Two years of prior youth program or summer camp program experience as a camp counselor or childcare worker or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the following knowledge, ability and skills are desired. Enrollment in, or completion of, a college degree in education, recreation or related field is highly desirable. A valid Illinois Driver’s license is desired but not required.

Skills & Abilities

  • Plan, direct, and conduct activities (i.e., sports, games, arts/crafts, music and dance, and homework assistance) to meet program goals with or without staff assistance.
  • Communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Strong time management and organizational skills
  • Communicate with co-workers and the public in a professional manner during stressful situations.

Knowledge

  • Possesses leadership capabilities to create an inclusive environment for children and staff while implementing recreational activities, including sports, games, arts and crafts, music and dance.
  • Hands-on experience working with children.
  • District safety policies and procedures
  • Microsoft Office or similar business systems
  • Within one week of hire, employees are required to complete the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) online Mandated Reporter Training
  • Within one week of hire, employees are required to complete CDC Concussion Awareness Training.
  • CPR/AED Certification or ability to obtain within three (3) months of hire.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions will be implemented.

  • While performing the duties of this job the employee frequently is required to sit or stand for long periods of time.
  • The employee is required to talk or hear; use hands and fingers to handle, feel, or operate objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.
  • The employee is required to walk; sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, couch, or crawl; and smell.
  • The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Working in teams will also allow workers to have assistance with heavier activities at various sites. Lifting also requires bending, stooping, carrying, and twisting.
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job includes close vision and the ability to adjust focus.

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