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Programs Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Program Director identifies and recommends new research opportunities related to the key ... Develop and manage research programs by conducting research activities, including outreach to ...

The Program Director identifies and recommends new research opportunities related to the key ... Develop and manage research programs by conducting research activities, including outreach to ...

... DIRECTOR, SPECIAL PROGRAMS Join us in pioneering cutting-edge, innovative space-based capabilities that redefine National Security. Build revolutionary technologies to protect and advance our nation ...

As the Director, Partner Programs, you will lead the Global Partner Program Center of Excellence as well as the team responsible for the resale, managed service, and distribution routes-to-market ...

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Programs Director information

See California salary details

$29.1K

$77.2K

$135.2K

How much do programs director jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for programs director in California is $77,172.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $91,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Programs Director, you need strong leadership abilities, strategic planning skills, and experience managing multiple projects or initiatives, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with project management software, budgeting tools, and reporting systems is typically required, along with certifications like PMP being advantageous. Exceptional communication, decision-making, and team-building skills help a Programs Director lead diverse teams and engage stakeholders effectively. These skills and qualities are essential for driving organizational goals, ensuring program success, and maintaining alignment between teams and strategic objectives.

What are some common challenges a Programs Director faces when overseeing multiple projects simultaneously?

Programs Directors often manage several projects at once, which can make balancing competing priorities and resources a major challenge. Coordinating cross-functional teams, ensuring consistent communication, and aligning project goals with organizational strategy require strong leadership and adaptability. It’s important to implement effective project management systems, delegate tasks appropriately, and foster collaboration to keep all programs on track and within budget. Regularly reviewing progress and being proactive in addressing issues can help mitigate these challenges and ensure overall program success.

What does a Programs Director do?

A Programs Director is responsible for overseeing the planning, implementation, and evaluation of an organization's programs and initiatives. They ensure programs align with the organization’s mission and goals, manage budgets, supervise program staff, and track program outcomes. Programs Directors often collaborate with stakeholders, secure funding, and report on program effectiveness to leadership or funders. Their leadership is crucial for delivering impactful services and achieving organizational objectives.

What is the difference between Programs Director vs Program Coordinator?

AspectPrograms Director
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in a related field; some roles prefer a master's degree or certifications in program management
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple programs or departments, often in nonprofit, education, or government sectors
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly found in organizations managing large-scale initiatives, overseeing program staff and budgets
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare Programs Director with Program Coordinator to understand differences in responsibilities and seniority

The Programs Director typically holds a higher-level leadership role, overseeing multiple programs and strategic planning, while a Program Coordinator handles day-to-day program operations. The comparison helps job seekers and employers distinguish between strategic oversight and operational roles within organizations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Programs jobs in California? The most popular types of Programs jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Programs Director jobs? Cities in California with the most Programs Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Programs Director job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,172 per year, or $37.1 per hour.
Assistant Program Director

Assistant Program Director

Turning Point Community Programs

Vacaville, CA

$32 - $34.64/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Turning Point Community Programs rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

GENERAL PURPOSE

Under the administrative supervision of the Program Director, this position is responsible for the supervision of Personal Service Coordinators and assisting the Program Director in the functioning of the program.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is an at-will leadership position within a program. Additionally, this position is responsible for the day-to-day supervision of assigned staff who perform the established duties of the program. This is a management position responsible for all phases of the management process within the assigned program.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES – (ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY)

The duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that could be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to this class.

  1. Responsible for all coverage scheduling, including unexpected absences.
  2. Makes recommendations for program improvement and design.
  3. Ensures staff compliance with productivity standards to ensure the fiscal viability of the program.
  4. Works closely with the Program Director in the coordination of duties.
  5. Covers for absent staff to cover open shifts if no other coverage is possible.
  6. Maintains petty cash account.
  7. Conducts internal record audits and is responsible for maintaining staff personnel files in compliance with licensing requirements; conducts resident satisfaction interviews.
  8. Ensures that site safety coordinator maintains monthly site inspections and safety records.
  9. Oversees medication distribution and related charting.
  10. Records in the log significant events of the shift and observations of individual clients which may be relevant to the client’s treatment and/or success or failure at Turning Point.
  11. Completes Denial of Rights forms every month.
  12. Provides prompt intervention in the event of a crisis, both to stop the crisis and to notify, when indicated, persons and agencies necessary for the resolution of the crisis; provides “on-the-spot” counseling that is both helpful to the residents and consistent with the philosophy of the program.
  13. Ensures the safety, health, and well-being of staff and residents.
  14. Ensures program meets staffing/documentation requirements of CCL Title 22 or Title 17 as appropriate to program license at all times, including particular sensitivity to such issues as requests for time off or scheduling of off-site trainings when the site is short-staffed by more than one person per shift at any given time.
  15. Provides all necessary reports to the County and Administration in a timely fashion

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES

Education, Training, and Experience

A typical way of obtaining the knowledge, skills, and abilities outlined above is through graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor’s degree in social work, Psychology, or a related field; four (4) years of full-time work experience in a community program that served clients with mental illness, and at least one (1) year of managerial/supervisory experience.

Licenses; Certificates; Special Requirements:

  • California driver’s license & current vehicle insurance/registration
  • Reliable means of transportation capable of passing vehicle safety inspection if more than five years old, excluding all modes of two-wheeled transport, including bicycles, mopeds, and motorcycles.

Schedule: Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM.
Compensation: $32.00 - $34.64 an hour.

Interested? Join us at our open interviews on Wednesdays from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, located at 10850 Gold Center Drive, Suite 325, Rancho Cordova, CA 95670