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Programs Director Jobs in Elgin, IL (NOW HIRING)

Elevance Health

Technical Program Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$170K - $255K/yr

... programs made up of multiple projects. Manages projects of at least $20M+ in size or equal ... Director Equivalent Workshift: Job Family: IFT > IT Project Mgmt Please be advised that Elevance ...

JLL

Technical Program Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$132K - $172K/yr

Lead a team of technnology program and project managers (in a matrix environment, with some direct reports and others dotted in) to deliver the client's technology related scope in alignment with ...

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All JobsPrograms Director JobsPrograms Director Jobs in Elgin, IL

Programs Director information

See Elgin, IL salary details

$29.2K

$77.3K

$135.4K

How much do programs director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for programs director in Elgin, IL is $77,297.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,400.00 and $91,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 cities near Elgin, IL are hiring for Programs Director jobs? Cities near Elgin, IL with the most Programs Director job openings:
Programs Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Programs Director job openings in Elgin, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,297 per year, or $37.2 per hour.
Program Director- IL- Physician Assistant Studies

Program Director- IL- Physician Assistant Studies

Midwestern University

Downers Grove, IL

Full-time

Posted 2 hours ago

Midwestern University rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

315th of 541 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Midwestern University’s College of Health Sciences, Downers Grove, Illinois invites applications for the position of Program Director, Assistant or Associate Professor, Physician Assistant Studies. The Program Director provides leadership for academic, clinical, and research activities within the PA program, promoting high standards in teaching excellence, clinical experiences, student success, and research productivity. The position requires a forward-thinking, innovative leader who can build capacity and manage a high-capacity team. The position is predominantly administrative, so teaching is limited. The Program Director reports directly to the Dean of the College of Health Sciences (CHS). This is a 12-month, full-time, tenure-track faculty appointment. Academic rank is commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Responsibilities:

  • Perform all duties of the Program Director as described in the ARC-PA Standards.
  • Ensure the program is adhering to all ARC-PA accreditation standards, including preparing and submitting all required reports.
  • Provide supervision and mentorship to the medical director, faculty, and staff.
  • Oversee the curriculum, its delivery, and all assessments as governed by ARC-PA Standards.
  • Manage all resources and the annual operating budget.
  • Make recommendations annually to the CHS Dean regarding capital purchases and improvements.
  • Oversee the program’s marketing and admissions processes.
  • Align the program’s strategic priorities with the College and University’s strategic vision.
  • Prove oversight of the clinical team, nurture relationships with community partners, and foster new relationships with strategic outreach.
  • Support student success through the appropriate allocation of resources and services throughout the program.
  • Support faculty and staff development and ensure effective faculty and staff evaluations.
  • Engage in scholarship and maintain the program’s research agenda.
  • Review and approve all program-level grant applications.
  • Deliver high-quality teaching and learning experiences in the classroom.
  • Use effective communication skills to nurture relationships and facilitate change with faculty, staff, and students.
  • Promote a culture of collegiality and collaboration within the program and across the college.
  • Engage as an active member of the PA faculty, CHS Dean’s Council, and Midwestern University community.

Requirements:

  • Graduate-level degree in physician assistant studies.
  • Current or eligible for State of Illinois PA license.
  • At least three years of full-time higher education experience, with teaching responsibilities at the post-secondary level.
  • Demonstrated abilities in teaching, scholarship, service, and mentorship.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Doctoral degree in a related field.
  • Experience with ARC-PA, or other accreditation.
  • Evidence of visionary, dynamic leadership with high standards.
  • Demonstrated success in leading high-functioning teams through change.

Compensation:

The salary and benefits are commensurate with experience. Review of applications will begin February 15, 2026 and continue until the position is filled.

About Midwestern University:

Midwestern University is an independent institution of higher education committed to the education of health care professionals. The Illinois campus is located on a spacious 105-acre campus in Downers Grove, 25 miles west of Chicago, and is home to the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, College of Pharmacy-Downers Grove Campus, College of Dental Medicine-Illinois, Chicago College of Optometry, and College of Health Sciences-Downers Grove Campus. The PA program is housed in the College of Health Sciences along with Speech-Language Pathology, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Behavioral Sciences.

Please submit your application packet through MWU's online job board at www.midwestern.edu. Your online application should include:

  • Cover letter (upload as an attachment)
  • CV (upload as an attachment)

Questions should be directed to: Sarah Radtke, Dean of the College of Health Sciences. sradtk@midwestern.edu. 630-515-7435

Midwestern University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer that does not discriminate against an employee or applicant based upon race; color; religion; creed; national origin or ancestry; ethnicity; sex (including pregnancy); gender (including gender expressions, gender identity; and sexual orientation); marital status; age; disability; citizenship; past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services; genetic information; or any other protected class, in accord with all federal, state and local laws and regulations. Midwestern University complies with the Smoke-Free Arizona Act (A.R.S. 36-601.01) and the Smoke Free Illinois Act (410 ILCS 82/). Midwestern University complies with the Illinois Equal Pay Act of 2003 and Arizona Equal Pay Acts.

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