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Programs Director Jobs in Park Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

Freelance Program Director (open to remote EST or CST) Who we are looking for: VML is seeking a Freelance Program Director, who will be responsible for overseeing the overall delivery stack, all ...

... 5. Programs run at the various school locations. We presently have school site Director openings for the 2026/2027 school year. Our part-time staff receive a free membership to our health club ...

Freelance Program Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$85 - $110/hr

Freelance Program Director (open to remote EST or CST) Who we are looking for: VML is seeking a Freelance Program Director, who will be responsible for overseeing the overall delivery stack, all ...

Program Director/Coach

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Background in gymnastics, tumbling, or movement-based programs * Positive, high-energy attitude and a passion for working with children * Excited about opportunities to grow with a fast-moving ...

Showing results 41-60

Programs Director information

See Park Ridge, IL salary details

$29K

$76.9K

$134.8K

How much do programs director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for programs director in Park Ridge, IL is $76,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,200.00 and $91,000.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Programs jobs in Park Ridge, IL?

The most popular types of Programs jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Programs Director job openings in Park Ridge, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,945 per year, or $37 per hour.

Assistant Program Director - North Suburbs - Northfield

Northfield, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

The Assistant Program Director reports to the Program Director and is a part of the management structure. The APD is responsible for the overall and day-to-day operation, administration, and evaluation of the program as well as the general welfare of the members and staff. The Assistant Program Director oversees all aspects of the Program in absence of the Program Director.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Ensures the delivery of all program and casework services align with agency objectives and promulgate agency traditions, practices and organizational goals.
  • Provides direct service to members and their families, functioning as the senior clinician or "player coach" of your team. This includes participation on the team in a manner consistent with team expectations and in a fashion which models the functioning expected of all team members.
  • Ensures the team functions optimally, in conjunction with other parts of the program, while meeting the community support and rehabilitation needs of our members, as well as commercial insurance standards. This is to be accomplished in a fashion which is consistent with the agency's mission statement, goals and objectives, formal and informal policies and procedures, as well as with the expectations and regulations of the various funding sources and with the highest professional standards. This may include but is not limited to the standards and documentation requirements as established by: CARF, Medicare, Medicaid, DMH, CILA, DOL, Social Security (PASS), DRS and/or DCFS.
  • Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring and training employees; planning, assigning and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.
  • Monitors all required paperwork and maintains the quality and validity of individual case records according to CARF, Medicare, Medicaid standards and agency traditions. Assure that all assigned paperwork is completed accurately and in a timely fashion.
  • Oversees income streams and programmatic expenditures for this program in accordance with the agency's accounting procedures and within the program's approved budget as assigned by the Program Director.
  • Assures that all Thresholds procedures regarding the handling of member’s funds are followed and that both the members and the Thresholds administration are assured that all safeguards, reports and accounting meets the highest standards.
  • Meets regularly with key staff of other Thresholds programs for the purpose of administration, coordination and development of agency programs. This shall include providing the Program Director with accurate and timely information on topics and issues related to the operation of the program and wellbeing of its members. As assigned, appropriately transmit such information to the staff of the program.
  • Assists with special tasks as assigned, including but not limited to: writing proposals, publications, annual reports, representing the agency at meetings, conferences, conducting research, consulting with and training outside visitors and trainees, supervising students, orienting and training new staff.
  • Oversees and manages the physical location(s) utilized as program space. Assumes responsibility for all aspects of staff and member safety relative to the operation of the program(s).
  • Participates in and attends special activities related to the program as assigned. 
  • Participates in the implementation of Thresholds emergency plans related to extreme weather or other emergency condition.
  • Performs and participates in crisis intervention when necessary.
  • Assures that all Thresholds records are organized in a systematic and organized fashion. Follows all appropriate safeguards with regard to the confidential files maintained at the Program. Follows all policies and procedures pertaining to all records including but not limited to restricting access to all records per agency policy.
  • Provides accurate and timely information to supervisor on all topics and issues related to the operation of the agency and the wellbeing of its members. As appropriate, transmits such information to subordinates.
  • Provides crisis interventions while in the community.
  • Represents Thresholds in the community partners and members of the community
  • Other duties as assigned.


MARGINAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Be on call as needed for 24/7 programs, work a flexible schedule, including weekends or evenings, as needed.
  • May be required to be available to the staff and members of the program on an oncall basis after regular business hours. Provides afterhours coverage as needed.
  • In the absence of the Program Director, provides leadership and modeling of evidencebased practices and recovery that ensures program implementation according to the fidelity scales.

EDUCATION:

  • Bachelors Degree Required
  • Master's Degree Preferred

EXPERIENCE:

  • Three (3) years of leadership experience is preferred.
  • Ability to synthesize and summarize information to make judgments regarding member care.
  • Computer proficiency, including the ability to use email, navigate and enter notes into electronic medical records.


SKILLS/CERTIFICATIONS:

  • Current and valid driver’s license required.
  • Daily access to a personal vehicle is required. Must obtain and maintain $100,000/$300,000/$100,000 liability insurance coverage. Subject to validation every 6 months.
  • May be required to provide transportation for members of the program using a Thresholds provided vehicle or personal vehicle. Must be 23 years of age and must meet all insurance carrier’s requirements. Subject to annual Department of Motor Vehicles license verification.

WHAT SETS THRESHOLDS APART

  • Competitive pay - Salary Range: $72,000.00 - $83,000.00 annually
    • Based on supervisory experience and licensure
  • Generous PTO (9 federal holidays, 8 days of sick leave, 15-22 days personal and vacation)
  • Dental insurance, vision insurance,choice of 4 medical insurance plans
  • 403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match
  • Robust employee assistance program (EAP)
  • Mileage reimbursement 
  • Cell phone reimbursement (up to $50/month)
  • Public service loan forgiveness
  • Supervision for clinical licensure at no cost (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC)
  • Reimbursement for professional licensure and license renewal 

Thresholds is a mission-driven agency with a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We foster an environment where all feel valued and respected, a place where every employee can be themselves, thrive, and support the agency’s mission. Click here to learn more.   

One of the oldest and largest community mental health organizations in Illinois, we pride ourselves in being a Chicago Tribune Top Workplace and one of Chicago’s 101 Best & Brightest Companies to Work For, several years in a row. Â