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Programs Director Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Director of Programs

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Director of Program Services Reports To: Executive Director Employment Type: Full-Time Location: Chicago, IL Organization Background: The Precious Blood Ministry of Reconciliation (PBMR) mission is:

Director of Programs

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Director of Program Services Reports To: Executive Director Employment Type: Full-Time Location: Chicago, IL Organization Background: The Precious Blood Ministry of Reconciliation (PBMR) mission is:

Program Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K/yr

Manage staff members across several programs, providing day-to-day operational oversight and ... Direct all HR functions including hiring, onboarding, payroll (ADP), benefits coordination ...

Assistant Program Director Department: Workforce Development Work Location: Chicago Reports to ... Demonstrated knowledge of workforce development and/or knowledge of implementing programs and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Programs Director information

See Illinois salary details

$28.6K

$75.8K

$132.8K

How much do programs director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for programs director in Illinois is $75,773.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,400.00 and $89,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Programs Directors in large organizations or corporations can earn around $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities. High-level executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions also often reach or exceed this salary level, typically requiring strong strategic skills, industry expertise, and a track record of success.

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 four major jobs of program directors?

Program directors are responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating programs to meet organizational goals. They oversee staff, manage budgets, coordinate activities, and ensure compliance with policies and regulations. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential for success in this role.

What is the role of a program director?

A program director oversees the planning, implementation, and evaluation of multiple projects within an organization or department. They coordinate teams, manage budgets, set goals, and ensure programs meet organizational objectives, often requiring strong leadership, communication skills, and familiarity with project management tools. The role may also involve reporting to stakeholders and ensuring compliance with policies and regulations.

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 oversees the planning, development, and implementation of programs within an organization. They coordinate teams, manage budgets, set goals, and ensure programs meet objectives and standards, often requiring strong leadership and project management skills.
What are the most commonly searched types of Programs jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Programs jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Programs Director jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Programs Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Programs Director job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,773 per year, or $36.4 per hour.
Programs Director

$80K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Management & Training Corporation rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

36th of 41 rated prisons


Job description

Wage - $80,000 - 85,000 annually, based on experience

Schedule – Full Time

Our staff also enjoy these benefits:

  • Health, dental, vision, prescription and life insurance
  • Short & long-term disability
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Paid time off and paid holidays
  • Professional development assistance 
  • Career advancement opportunities 

MTC is proud to operate the Joliet Job Corps Center in Joliet, IL where our staff provide quality services to our local youth. We value our professional and caring employees who are dedicated to improving people’s lives and we want YOU to join our team!

What you will be doing: Directly supervises the secretary II, scheduling clerk/TABE administrator, ACT/OTP coordinator, substitute instructors, academic manager, career technical training manager, and career support services manager. Responsible for the coordination and management of academic program, career technical training, and testing in compliance with government and management directives.

Essential Functions:

  • Plan, coordinate, and supervise the administrative and program functions of the academic, career technical training, and career support services departments
  • Evaluate staff performance, provide staff training, and recommend and implement department and personnel changes to the center director
  • Coordinate and achieve department goals for the performance year
  • Assist in the preparation of the departmental budget; monitor and control expenditures
  • Develop and implement procedures, systems and curricula for academics, Career Development Services System (CDSS) and career technical training departments
  •  Develop, implement and maintain a collaborative system of communication between academics, career tech, and center staff, and outside community services to facilitate student progress and performance
  • Provide oversight for the industry council for appropriate career technical training programs
  • Oversee the scheduling system to ensure adequate assignment of staff resources and balanced class loads
  • Monitor class absentee rates and take appropriate corrective action
  • Monitor center outcome measurement system (OMS) performance measures. Ensure all reports, records and documentation is maintained as required
  • Provide positive, quality customer services to students, staff and other center customers
  • Participate in student employability programs and activities
  • Support, promote, and enforce the Job Corps Zero-Tolerance Policy
  • Promote the development of Career Success Standards by modeling appropriate behaviors, mentoring students where necessary and monitoring both positive and negative behaviors through interventions
  • Maintain accountability of students and property; adhere to safety practices
  • Cultivate and maintain a climate on center which is free of harassment, intimidation, and disrespect to provide a safe place for staff and students to work and learn.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

  • Bachelor’s degree and three years related experience, two of which should be supervisory
  • Experience with youth, excellent written and verbal communications skills and computer proficiency required

Management & Training Corporation (MTC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, disabled status, veteran status, genetic information, national origin, or any other category protected by federal law. MTC participates in E-Verify. We strive to provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities, including disabled veterans, in our job application and hiring process. If you are interested in employment opportunities with Management & Training Corporation and need assistance, please contact our staffing department through customersupport@mtctrains.com or 801-693-2888.


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