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Programs Director Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Manage the day-to-day operations of one to four programs in a community including organization and implementation of direct supports, person-centered planning, and implementation, health care ...

Manage the day-to-day operations of one to four programs in a community including organization and implementation of direct supports, person-centered planning, and implementation, health care ...

Manage the day-to-day operations of one to four programs in a community including organization and implementation of direct supports, person-centered planning, and implementation, health care ...

Manage the day-to-day operations of one to four programs in a community including organization and implementation of direct supports, person-centered planning, and implementation, health care ...

Foundation Program Director

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$27.60 - $41.40/hr

As a Foundation Program Director at MercyOne, you will guide and direct Foundation activities including special events, planned giving, major gifts and annual appeals. Director works with Foundation ...

Foundation Program Director

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$27.60 - $41.40/hr

As a Foundation Program Director at MercyOne, you will guide and direct Foundation activities including special events, planned giving, major gifts and annual appeals. Director works with Foundation ...

Youth Sports Program Director

Waukee, IA · On-site

$57.50K - $70K/yr

The Program Director manages the day-to-day operation of the local sports franchise including ... programs. We offer youth sports leagues, camps and clinics for kids ages 3 and up in today's most ...

Dir II- Programs

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$173.02K - $294.14K/yr

The Navigation and Sensor Systems (NSS) Programs/Portfolio Director will lead one of four NSS product portfolios and continue to drive the growth and the success of the business. NSS is in Cedar ...

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Showing results 1-20

Programs Director information

See Iowa salary details

$27.7K

$73.4K

$128.7K

How much do programs director jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for programs director in Iowa is $73,446.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,800.00 and $86,900.00 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 Iowa? The most popular types of Programs jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Programs Director jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Programs Director job openings:

Program Director

tmn

Storm Lake, IA

$54K/yr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Program Director, IDD Services 

This position requires someone who has had a Drivers License for at least 1 year (post permit) and a clean driving record that meets Sevita's insurability policy.


Have you been looking for a fantastic role to continue your career path in Social and Human Services? Look no further. This role is critical to our success and exemplifies the wonderful mission driven work we do here every day.

  • Manage the day-to-day operations of one to four programs in a community including organization and implementation of direct supports, person-centered planning, and implementation, health care, advocacy, stakeholder relations, regulatory compliance, recruiting, retention, staffing, training, safety, financial management, and maintenance of the physical environment. 
  • Manage program staff members including performance evaluations, scheduling, and orientation. 
  • Make recommendations and/or decisions on employee hires, transfers, promotions, salary changes, corrective action, and terminations. 
  • Manage the implementation of program planning; monitor delivery of services and supports; ensure services are consistent, engaging, and relevant to the individuals served. 
  • Must be available on-call to support staff, find coverage or cover shifts as needed.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree and two to three years of related experience in the Human Services Industry preferred.
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Other education, experience, training, licensure, or certification per state requirements or as required by applicable regulations.
  • Current driver's license, car registration, and auto insurance.
  • Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to multi-task to meet deadlines.
  • Effective communication skills to manage relationships.
  • A reliable, responsible attitude and a compassionate approach.

Why Join Us? 

  • Salaried Opportunity: $54,000/annually
  • Full benefits package for full-time employees.
  • 401(k) with company match.
  • Paid time off and holiday pay.
  • Rewarding work, impacting the lives of those you serve, working alongside a great team of coworkers.
  • Enjoy job security with nationwide career development and advancement opportunities.

We have a rewarding work environment with awesome co-workers – come join our team – Apply Today!