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Program Planner Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Turner Industries

Planner

Whiting, IN · On-site

... MS programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)Preferred experience in planning software applications. (Turner Applications WinTake ® , QuickPlan ® and Win PCS ® is an additional benefit)Ability to ...

Walker-Miller Energy

Senior Program Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$119K - $120K/yr

The Senior Program Manager, Strategy & Planning is responsible for leading program planning, forecasting, performance management, and continuous improvement activities that support successful program ...

New

Empowered Staffing

Program Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

Documented education or experience in instructional methodology, curriculum design, and program planning. * Strong understanding of Surgical Technology education, clinical practices, certification ...

Perkins & Will

Lab Planner

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

A Lab Planner will be responsible for assisting the laboratory project planning effort toward the ... Develops a comprehensive understanding of clients' program requirements and standards and policies ...

Aspen Guard LLC

Planner

Chicago, IL · On-site

$57K - $66K/yr

The Production Planner will play a pivotal role in optimizing our manufacturing operations by ... Employee recognition and development programs * Comprehensive benefits package including: * Medical:

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All JobsProgram Planner JobsProgram Planner Jobs in Chicago, IL

Program Planner information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$40.2K

$87K

$169.5K

How much do program planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for program planner in Chicago, IL is $87,005.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,200.00 and $104,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a program planner?

A program planner’s job entails obtaining knowledge about the company’s overall goals and using that information to develop or manage specific programs or projects that further those goals. As a program planner, your duties are to provide support to various team members who carry out daily, weekly, or monthly tasks to streamline their workflows. To succeed in improving the quality and efficacy of programs, you provide support when it comes to operating budgets, overseeing the schedule for projects, and identifying areas for improvement. This job requires excellent communication, multitasking, and organizational skills. Qualifications for this career typically include a bachelor’s degree in business administration and prior experience in a relevant role.

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

To thrive as a Program Planner, you need strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills, typically backed by a relevant degree such as business administration or project management. Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, ERP systems, and certification such as PMP or CAPM is often required. Outstanding communication, attention to detail, and adaptability are essential soft skills for coordinating teams and managing shifting priorities. These skills are crucial for ensuring programs are delivered on time, within budget, and meet organizational objectives.

What are some common challenges faced by program planners when coordinating multiple projects simultaneously?

Program Planners often manage several projects at once, which can present challenges such as balancing competing priorities, ensuring clear communication among diverse teams, and adapting to shifting deadlines. Effective time management and strong organizational skills are essential to keep projects on track and aligned with overall organizational goals. Additionally, Program Planners regularly collaborate with project managers, stakeholders, and team members, requiring a proactive approach to problem-solving and conflict resolution.

What is the difference between Program Planner vs Project Coordinator?

AspectProgram PlannerProject Coordinator
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in planning, management, or related field; certifications like PMP are commonUsually needs a bachelor's degree; certifications like CAPM can be beneficial
Work EnvironmentWorks in government agencies, non-profits, or large organizations focusing on long-term program developmentWorks across various industries managing specific projects within larger programs
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in public sector, healthcare, education, and large corporate programsCommon in construction, IT, marketing, and event planning

Program Planners focus on designing and managing comprehensive programs with multiple projects, emphasizing strategic planning and long-term goals. Project Coordinators handle specific projects, ensuring tasks are completed on time and within scope. While both roles require organizational skills and certifications like PMP or CAPM, Program Planners have a broader scope involving program-level oversight, whereas Project Coordinators focus on individual project execution.

More about Program Planner jobs

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

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

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

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

Program Planner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Planner job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,005 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

Program Planner, Speakers Bureau

Citrus Health Group, Inc

Chicago, IL • On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Position Summary:

The Program Planner (Speakers Bureau) is responsible for the full-cycle planning and flawless execution of promotional pharmaceutical events. Acting as the primary liaison between pharmaceutical client field teams, healthcare professionals, and internal departments, this role demands a high degree of professionalism, emotional intelligence, and relationship-building skills.

Program Planners must demonstrate deep knowledge of client-specific business rules and compliance guidelines while delivering high-touch, seamless event execution. Success in this client-facing role requires exceptional communication, technical proficiency, and a collaborative mindset.

Essential Functions:

  • Logistically execute a high volume of promotional programs annually across one or two assigned client accounts
  • Serve as the key point of contact for sales representatives and speakers, providing proactive and responsive communication

Manage end-to-end program logistics, including:

  • Speaker confirmation, travel coordination, and honoraria processing
  • Venue sourcing, contracting, and AV coordination
  • Attendee communications and roster/data entry
  • Shipment of meeting materials, if applicable
  • Web platform setup and support (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, etc.)
  • Ensure timely program closeouts, budget reconciliation, and compliance with client financial and regulatory requirements
  • Respond professionally and efficiently to program-related inquiries or issues
  • Participate in internal team meetings and contribute to process optimization efforts
  • Consistently meet or exceed program KPIs
  • Create and deliver program reports and status updates as required
  • Anticipate potential issues and offer strategic, solution-oriented responses

Technical Skills:

  • Proficiency in Zoom and Microsoft Teams (including hosting, screen sharing, breakout rooms, and troubleshooting)
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook); intermediate PowerPoint skills
  • Proficient with survey tools, email platforms, and Adobe Acrobat PDF preferred
  • High level comfort learning and navigating event management platforms and CRM systems

Soft Skills:

  • Exceptional organizational and time management abilities
  • Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills
  • Clear and professional verbal and written communication
  • Calm, adaptable, and solution-oriented under pressure
  • Keen attention to detail and accuracy
  • Friendly and professional customer service mindset
  • Self-starter with strong accountability and ownership
  • Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment
  • Willingness to work flexible hours and provide after-hours support as needed

Experience:

  • Minimum of 3 years of experience managing pharmaceutical speaker bureau programs. Bachelor's degree highly preferred.
  • Proven ability to execute multiple concurrent programs with tight deadlines
  • Strong working knowledge of pharmaceutical compliance guidelines, including the Sunshine Act

The estimated salary for this position and similar roles Citrus may consider for applicants ranges from $55,000 to $70,000 per year. This is the approximate pay range that Citrus anticipates it will pay for this and similar positions at the time of this posting.  Citrus is committed to offering fair and competitive pay for all employees; consistent with applicable law, final compensation will be determined based on the applicant's skills, qualifications, and experience, along with the position's requirements. Citrus reserves the right to modify this pay range at any time. 

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