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Public Programs Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Harvard University

Public Programs Coordinator

Cambridge, MA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Manages the communications needs of Public Programs, which includes creating, maintaining, reviewing, and updating relevant content for the GSD's website, e-newsletters, and email marketing. Conducts ...

Harvard University

Public Programs Coordinator

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$54/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Manages the communications needs of Public Programs, which includes creating, maintaining, reviewing, and updating relevant content for the GSD's website, e-newsletters, and email marketing. Conducts ...

Valid8 Financial, Inc.

Director, Public Programs

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$90 - $110/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Develop and manage event budgets, ensuring responsible stewardship of resources. * Identify ... Represent the public programs perspective in institutional planning conversations with the Chief ...

The Delaware Contemporary

Be Seen First

Education & Community Programs Manager

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$36K - $40K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Artistic & Public Programs Benefits: Yes Position Summary: The Education & Community Programs Manager leads The Delaware Contemporary's educational initiatives, community engagement, and external ...

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The Delaware Contemporary

Be Seen First

Education & Community Programs Manager

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$36K - $40K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Artistic & Public Programs Benefits: Yes Position Summary: The Education & Community Programs Manager leads The Delaware Contemporary's educational initiatives, community engagement, and external ...

New

The Delaware Contemporary

Be Seen First

Education & Community Programs Manager

Wilmington, DE · On-site

$36K - $40K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Artistic & Public Programs Benefits: Yes Position Summary: The Education & Community Programs Manager leads The Delaware Contemporary's educational initiatives, community engagement, and external ...

New

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Public Programs Manager information

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$11K

$48.6K

$60.5K

How much do public programs manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for public programs manager in the United States is $48,613.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $57,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public programs manager?

Public Programs Managers are professionals responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing educational or community-focused events and initiatives, often within museums, cultural organizations, nonprofits, or government agencies. They coordinate public outreach activities, manage budgets, and collaborate with various stakeholders to ensure programs meet organizational goals and serve the community effectively. Their work involves strategic planning, team leadership, and evaluating program success to enhance audience engagement.

What are some common challenges faced by public programs managers when planning community events?

Public Programs Managers often encounter challenges such as balancing diverse community interests, managing tight budgets, and ensuring logistical details run smoothly. They must coordinate with multiple stakeholders—including vendors, local officials, and partner organizations—to deliver engaging and accessible programs. Flexibility and strong problem-solving skills are crucial, as unforeseen issues like weather changes or last-minute cancellations may arise. Successful managers proactively communicate with their teams and adapt plans to meet both organizational goals and community needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public programs manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Programs Manager, you need expertise in program development, event planning, and community engagement, often supported by a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as public administration, education, or arts management. Familiarity with project management tools, CRM systems, and event management software is typically required. Outstanding communication, organizational, and leadership skills help you effectively collaborate with stakeholders and manage diverse teams. These competencies are vital for delivering impactful public programs that meet organizational goals and serve community needs.

What is the difference between Public Programs Manager vs Community Outreach Coordinator?

AspectPublic Programs ManagerCommunity Outreach Coordinator
CredentialsBachelor's degree in public administration, communications, or related field; experience in program managementBachelor's degree; experience in community engagement or outreach
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with fieldwork for community eventsPrimarily community-facing, organizing events and outreach activities
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, non-profits, educational institutionsNon-profits, government, social service organizations
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in public program managementComparing community engagement roles

The Public Programs Manager oversees the planning and execution of public initiatives, often managing teams and budgets. The Community Outreach Coordinator focuses on engaging with communities directly, organizing events, and building relationships. While both roles involve community interaction, the manager has broader program oversight, whereas the coordinator emphasizes grassroots engagement.

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Cities with the most Public Programs Manager job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Programs jobs?

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Who are the top companies hiring for Public Programs Manager jobs?

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What states have the most Public Programs Manager jobs?

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Public Programs Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Programs Manager job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,613 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

WORK STUDY - PUBLIC PROGRAMS ASSISTANT

International Center of Photography

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Department: Public Engagement
Supervisor: Marley Trigg Stewart, Public Programs Manager
Duration: Academic Term
Availability: Four hours weekly, preferably in one shift; days and times are flexible. Occassional evening hours may be required to support public programs.
Position Summary
The Public Programs Assistant supports the administrative, and at select times, on - site production of ICP's public programs, including book events, film screenings, lectures, and community programs. The ideal candidate is reliable, communicative, and comfortable engaging courteously with the public in both online and in-person settings. Students will gain hands-on experience in program production, research, and contemporary conversations surrounding photography and visual culture.
Requirements
Key Responsibilities
  • Research public programming at local and international institutions, contemporary issues in photography, and museum practices.
  • Prepare weekly visual and written materials for public programs, including updating signage, welcome slideshows, and the public programs schedule.
  • Support outreach efforts and maintain event listings for upcoming programs.
  • Attend at least one public program each month to assist with event set-up, and documentation.
  • Review footage from public programs and identify key talking points for post-event videos and marketing materials.

Ideal Qualifications
  • Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Comfort interacting with the public in a professional and welcoming manner.
  • Interest in public programming, contemporary photography, event production, or museum engagement.

Eligibility
Only currently enrolled One-Year Certificate (OYC) students are eligible to apply. All applicants will be reviewed by the OYC Program Coordinator to confirm enrollment and eligibility.
After submitting an application, students will be asked to rank their work-study preferences. This information will be used during the placement process.
The International Center of Photography is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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