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Programs Director Jobs in Aurora, IL (NOW HIRING)

Outreach

Older Adults Program Director

Carol Stream, IL · On-site

$68K - $72K/yr

Outreach is hiring a Full-time Older Adults Program Director (with clinical licensure) at Outreach ... programs that promote healthy aging, lifelong learning, and meaningful community engagement.

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Programs Director information

See Aurora, IL salary details

$29.5K

$78.1K

$136.8K

How much do programs director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for programs director in Aurora, IL is $78,100.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,900.00 and $92,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a programs director?

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 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 does a programs director do?

A programs director oversees the planning, implementation, and evaluation of organizational programs to ensure they meet goals and standards. They coordinate teams, manage budgets, develop strategies, and often use project management tools to track progress. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential for success in this role.

What is the role of a programs director?

A programs director oversees the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs within an organization. They coordinate teams, manage budgets, develop strategies, and ensure program goals align with organizational objectives, often requiring strong leadership and project management skills.

What cities near Aurora, IL are hiring for Programs Director jobs?

Cities near Aurora, IL with the most Programs Director job openings:

Programs Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Programs Director job openings in Aurora, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,100 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

Program Director, Shady Oaks West

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois

Homer Glen, IL • On-site

$80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI), is a leading not-for-profit organization providing healing, justice and wholeness to people and communities. For over 150 years, LSSI has made a difference in the lives of children and families, and we're still a strong, viable presence in the State of Illinois, continuing that commitment to making a difference.
LSSI is hiring a full-time Program Director, Monday through Friday, on call. The Program Director will be responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating activities for the program in accordance with agency, licensing, and accrediting bodies' standards/rules.
Benefits and Perks:
LSSI is growing! Come be a part of this rewarding environment, and enjoy the knowledge that you're helping make a positive difference in the lives of others, as well as these career advantages:
  • On Demand Flexible Paydays for earned wages through an app called Dayforce Wallet.
  • Competitive salary based upon relevant education, experience, and licensure.
  • Salary $80,000/Annually.
  • Opportunity for advancement.
  • Comprehensive benefits package for Full-time employees includes healthcare insurance, up to 26 days of paid time off per calendar year, 11 paid holidays, sick time, 403(b) plan, Employee Assistance Program, and flexible hours.
  • The paid training you need to learn, grow, and succeed!

Essential Functions:
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable rules and licensure bodies, including but not limited to, DPA, DHS, IDPH, HBWS, and COA.
  • Define and maintain staffing requirements. Schedule staff in accordance with program requirements; respond to call-offs or other emergencies reported by staff.
  • Develop and monitor the implementation of each client's personal plan.
  • Facilitate integration and coordination of all client services.
  • Ensure compliance with all policies, systems, and procedures.
  • Evaluate effectiveness of the programs in relation to their objectives and budgets.
  • Develop, implement and be accountable for the program(s) budget.
  • Ensure the completion of all necessary reports and other documentation in a timely manner.
  • Provide direct supervision, training, support, review, and evaluation for assigned staff.
  • Demonstrate professional, positive behavior and carry out responsibilities with integrity, treating clients, families, other LSSI workforce members, and collaborative organizations and/or individual in a dignified, respectful, honest and fair manner.

Position Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Bachelor's degree in social work, occupational therapy, speech pathology, education, special education, registered nurse, or human service-related field preferred.
  • Nursing Home Administrator License or must obtain within 12 months from date of hire.
  • QDIP certification preferred.
  • Minimum of one (1) year of experience working with individuals with development disabilities required.
  • Minimum of two (2) years of managerial/supervisory experience required.
  • Experience developing and implementing policies, systems, and procedures required.
  • Demonstrated understanding of applicable rules and licensure requirements required.
  • Experience making decisions, planning, directing and/ controlling work required.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate in a clear, comprehensible manner, verbally and written.
  • Excellent organization, presentation and pc/computer skills, including experience using Microsoft Office (Outlook, Teams, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) along with other related software.
  • Background check clearance required.
  • Valid driver's license, in good standing for the state of residency required.
  • Access to reliable transportation required.
  • Valid IL statutory minimum liability insurance coverage, bodily injury and property damage required.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, pregnancy, any other characteristic protected by law.

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