1

Programs Director Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Program Director

Nashville, TN

$107.54K - $227.96K/yr

With a diverse portfolio of residential, energy, commercial, light industrial and public programs ... The Program Director is responsible for the growth of client accounts. They will develop and ...

Program Director

Nashville, TN

$113.52K - $150.61K/yr

With a diverse portfolio of residential, energy, commercial, light industrial and public programs ... The Program Director is responsible for the growth of client accounts. They will develop and ...

Be Seen First

Program Director

Memphis, TN · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

... programs and point of view of the organization to agencies, organizations, and the general public in a strong, positive image. 7. Function as the Reportable Event Manager. 8. Attend any Circle of ...

Be Seen First

Program Director

Memphis, TN · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

... programs and point of view of the organization to agencies, organizations, and the general public in a strong, positive image. 7. Function as the Reportable Event Manager. 8. Attend any Circle of ...

... assigned programs under the supervision of the Divisional Director. In this leadership role, you will ensure services are delivered in alignment with Clarvida's values of Excellence, Integrity ...

... assigned programs under the supervision of the Divisional Director. In this leadership role, you will ensure services are delivered in alignment with Clarvida's values of Excellence, Integrity ...

... assigned programs under the supervision of the Divisional Director. In this leadership role, you will ensure services are delivered in alignment with Clarvida's values of Excellence, Integrity ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Programs Director information

See Tennessee salary details

$26.8K

$71K

$124.3K

How much do programs director jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for programs director in Tennessee is $70,972.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,100.00 and $84,000.00 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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Programs jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Programs Director jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Programs Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Programs Director job openings in Tennessee as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,972 per year, or $34.1 per hour.
Program Director

$107.54K - $227.96K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Are you seeking purpose, challenge, and talented colleagues?  With a diverse portfolio of residential, energy, commercial, light industrial and public programs, CESO has the opportunity for you to develop your career. We develop leaders and empower our associates to use their skills and talents to positively impact the world through service - to our coworkers, clients, and communities. We subscribe to the mission of "empowering our people to impact communities by bringing clients' visions to life," so if this speaks to you, let's connect!

At CESO, a Program Director is responsible for the execution of a portfolio-which may include a client program, a collection of related projects, or a regional operational area. The Program Director is responsible for the growth of client accounts.  They will develop and execute strategies to grow client accounts by fulfilling other client needs and bringing in other services not yet performed for the client. They will coordinate client activities, monitor & forecast overall portfolio performance, and ensure the delivery of client projects. They will train and develop team members and identify those who can grow into more advanced roles. 
Primary Responsibilities
  • Be accountable for the team's quality of work, productivity, and actions.
  • Assist team members by providing technical direction.
  • Directs and oversees the execution of complex, portfolio comprised of multiple, interrelated architecture and engineering projects.
  • Serves as the primary point of contact for clients at the portfolio level, ensuring high levels of client satisfaction and sustained relationships.
  • Leads planning, execution, and delivery, ensuring scope, schedule, budget, and quality objectives are met.
  • Coordinates project teams and resources in collaboration with project managers, discipline leads, and operations staff.
  • Identifies portfolio-level risks and issues; implements mitigation strategies and ensures timely resolution.
  • Oversees portfolio financials, including budgeting, forecasting, tracking project costs, monthly billing and ensuring portfolio profitability.
  • Ensures adherence to contractual obligations, applicable codes, design standards, and regulatory requirements.
  • Provides regular portfolio reporting and updates to internal leadership and client stakeholders.
  • Supports proposal development and participates in portfolio-related business development efforts.
  • Supervising direct reports is a key responsibility of this job.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Position Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, Surveying or related field, with a minimum of 15 years of experience directly managing projects in a design and construction related field is preferred;
  • Or 20 years related experience and/or training is required.
  • Experience leading a team and working with multiple projects.
  • Professional Licensure (RA, PE, PS, RLA) is preferred.
  • PMP certification is preferred.
  • Computer skills necessary to enter daily timesheet data and use Microsoft Outlook for email correspondence.
  • Proficient knowledge of Microsoft Suite products, Deltek, and Newforma.
  • Ability to travel.
Benefits and Perks
  • Flexible and Hybrid Work Schedule
  • Paid Time Off - Credited to You 100% Upfront
  • 401K with a Company Match
  • Rewards and Recognition Program
  • Training and Development to Foster Professional Growth
  • Paid Holidays
  • Medical / Dental / Vision Coverage
  • Welcome Box
  • Casual Dress Code
  • Reimbursement for Professional Licenses
  • Paid Time Off for Community Team Service Events
  • Voluntary or Supplemental Short-Term / Long-Term Disability
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Company Paid Bonding and Recovery
  • Employee Events such as Lunches and Outings to Foster a Positive Work Environment
$107,541 - $227,956 a year
CESO Compensation Transparency:
The pay band shown reflects the minimum and maximum base salary for this position at CESO. Actual pay is 
determined by several factors, including location, experience, education, skills, and internal equity. Our pay 
structures are benchmarked against industry and market data to stay competitive. Each offer is based on a full review 
of a candidate's background, qualifications, and fit for the role.

Below are the typical new hire pay ranges for this position based on location:
Columbus, OH: $113,515 - $150,607
Akron, OH: $107,541 - $142,681
Brentwood, TN: $119,490 - $158,534
Charlotte, NC: $119,490 - $158,534
Cincinnati, OH: $113,515 - $150,607
Dayton, OH: $113,515 - $150,607
CESO is a principle-centered organization that aligns with strong service values, integrity, and authenticity.  We develop and inspire through training and coaching on the job.  At CESO, we believe that work should be more rewarding than just a paycheck.  In addition to a comprehensive benefit and compensation program, we create memories and friendships through our employee and service events.

CESO, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This organization participates in E-Verify and is a drug-free workplace. Criminal background checks and drug/alcohol checks are required.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
apply for this job