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Programs Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$63K/yr

This knowledge is necessary to provide oversight and direct involvement in the Youth Activities Program, which maintains and improves the physical, social, and mental wellbeing of young children and ...

Horizons Youth Services, through innovative leadership and job training programs, provides today ... In collaboration with the Center Director, assumes responsibilities for planning, organizing ...

Director, Strategic Programs

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Improving the Lives of Families through Child Care Services, Research, and Advocacy Director, Strategic Programs Location: Los Angeles, California 100% On-site Position Job Summary: Crystal Stairs ...

Program Director

Lebanon, PA · On-site

$60K/yr

Direct Deposit Youth Advocate Programs, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified ... applicants will receive consideration for employment based on individual merit, skills, and ...

Program Director

Harrisburg, PA · On-site

$60K/yr

The Program Director is responsible for the overall administration of the Dauphin County Program ... Competitive Weekly Pay Youth Advocate Programs, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All ...

Program Director EMPLOYER: Path2Freedom, Inc. DEPARTMENT: Programs REPORTS TO: President & Founder EFFECTIVE DATE: 1/15/2026 SUMMARY: The Program Director provides strategic leadership and ...

Director Of Programs

Mukilteo, WA · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

SUMMARY The Program Director provides strategic leadership for a Division composed of Integrated Product Teams (IPTs), ensuring excellence in program execution across cost, schedule, and technical ...

Director Programs

Germantown, MD · On-site

$168K - $261K/yr

Responsible for co-leading a program management team for our fast growing business. This includes full life cycle management (development, production, and sustainment) at our Germantown, Maryland ...

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Programs Director information

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$29.5K

$78.2K

$137K

How much do programs director jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for programs director in the United States is $78,196.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,000.00 and $92,500.00 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.
More about Programs Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Programs Director jobs? Cities with the most Programs Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Programs jobs? The most popular types of Programs jobs are:
What states have the most Programs Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Programs Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Programs Director job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 83% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,196 per year, or $37.6 per hour.
SUPERVISORY YOUTH PROGRAMS SPECIALIST / YOUTH PROGRAMS DIRECTOR

SUPERVISORY YOUTH PROGRAMS SPECIALIST / YOUTH PROGRAMS DIRECTOR

US Department of the Air Force

On-site

$63K/yr

Other

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.
The primary purpose of this position is: To exercise supervisory and managerial authorities over the Installation Youth Programs. Provide a comprehensive, professional youth program consisting of a balance of well-rounded positive experiences for youth 5-18 years of age. Focus is on Youth Activities, Youth Sports and School-Age Care programs as defined in AFI 34-144.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Professional and Scientific Positions.
BASIC REQUIREMENT OR INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT:
Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree that included or was supplemented by major study in youth development, psychology, youth studies, recreation, physical education, or an equivalent field of study
OR
Combination of education and experience
-- Courses equivalent to a major in youth development, psychology, youth studies, recreation, physical education, or an equivalent field of study, plus appropriate experience or additional course work that provided knowledge comparable to that normally acquired through the successful completion of the 4-year course of study in one of the related fields referenced above.
AND
In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:
FOR CONSIDERATION AT THE GS-11 LEVEL:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-09, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes professional knowledge of the theories, principles, and techniques and methodology of education and training of child and youth growth and development. This knowledge is necessary to provide oversight and direct involvement in the Youth Activities Program, which maintains and improves the physical, social, and mental wellbeing of young children and youth. Knowledge of learning and recreational activities and services, of participant's interests and needs, and of the methods and management policies, practices and procedures which enable the employee to conduct or adjust program operations and production effectively within available resources. Knowledge of food service regulations, design criteria, and equipment requirements. Knowledge of how to plan and conduct subject matter related staff training and parent information programs. Knowledge of budgetary, financial and resource management practices and procedures which is necessary to meeting program goals and objectives.
OR
EDUCATION:
Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work of the position. NOTE: You MUST submit a copy of your transcripts.
OR
COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:
A combination of progressively higher-level graduate education and experience may be used to satisfy the specialized experience requirement for this position if the computed percentage of the education and experience is at least 100%. NOTE: You MUST submit a copy of your transcripts.
FOR CONSIDERATION AT THE GS-12 LEVEL:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-11, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes professional knowledge of the theories, principles, and techniques and methodology of education and training of child and youth growth and development. This knowledge is necessary to provide oversight and direct involvement in the Youth Activities Program, which maintains and improves the physical, social, and mental wellbeing of young children and youth. Knowledge of learning and recreational activities and services, of participant's interests and needs, and of the methods and management policies, practices and procedures which enable the employee to conduct or adjust program operations and production effectively within available resources. Knowledge of food service regulations, design criteria, and equipment requirements. Knowledge of how to plan and conduct subject matter related staff training and parent information programs. Knowledge of budgetary, financial and resource management practices and procedures which is necessary to meeting program goals and objectives.
FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements to be considered eligible. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks. NOTE: Applicants applying as VEOA candidates who are current GS civil service employees or are prior GS civil service employees within the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements.
  • One year at the GS-09 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-11 level.
  • One year at the GS-11 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-12 level.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
GS-11:
  1. Professional knowledge of youth development and school age principles practices, philosophy and techniques, including health and safety requirements and child abuse identification reporting and prevention methods.
  2. Professional knowledge of the significant physical, emotional, social, creative, and cognitive needs of youth and teens typically present at each developmental stage and within different program environments.
  3. Knowledge of Air Force policies and procedures and their implications on youth development.
  4. Knowledge of financial, budget, resource management practices and principles, and analytical and evaluative methods and techniques.
  5. Ability to plan, organize, and direct the functions and mentor, motivate, and appraise the staff of an organization through subordinate supervisors.
  6. Ability to communicate both orally and in writing to promote and report on the program, train staff, resolve problems, and answer questions related to the developmental processes.
GS-12:
  1. Professional knowledge of youth development, education and recreation principals, concepts and methods and techniques to oversee a diversified Youth Activity Program that is carried out at the Youth Centers, Teen Center, School Age Program, and a host of playing fields, and shared space throughout the installation.
  2. Knowledge of safety and security regulations, practices, and procedures.
  3. Knowledge of budget, financial and resource management practices and program procedures.
  4. Ability to plan, organize, and direct the functions and mentor, motivate, and appraise the staff of an organization through subordinate supervisors.
  5. Ability to analyze, plan, and adjust work operations of one or more organizational segments to meet program requirements and objectives within available resources.
  6. Ability to communicate both orally and in writing.

PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience, transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.Employment Type: OTHER