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Public Programs Manager Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

Program Manager

Bridgeport, CT · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

... workforce development programs, ensuring compliance with all federal, state, local, and ... public forums as appropriate. * Prepares and submits accurate and timely program reports ...

... workforce development programs, ensuring compliance with all federal, state, local, and ... and public forums as appropriate. Prepares and submits accurate and timely program reports ...

Program Manager

Bridgeport, CT · On-site

$60 - $75/hr

... workforce development programs, ensuring compliance with all federal, state, local, and ... public forums as appropriate. * Prepares and submits accurate and timely program reports ...

Program Manager

Bridgeport, CT · On-site

$60K - $75K/yr

... workforce development programs, ensuring compliance with all federal, state, local, and ... public forums as appropriate. * Prepares and submits accurate and timely program reports ...

Showing results 41-60

Public Programs Manager information

See Connecticut salary details

$11K

$48.8K

$60.7K

How much do public programs manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for public programs manager in Connecticut is $48,788.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,144.00 and $57,707.00 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.

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

The most popular types of Public Programs jobs in Connecticut are:

What are popular job titles related to Public Programs Manager jobs in Connecticut?

For Public Programs Manager jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Public Programs Manager jobs in Connecticut look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Programs Manager jobs in Connecticut are:

What cities in Connecticut are hiring for Public Programs Manager jobs?

Cities in Connecticut with the most Public Programs Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Public Programs Manager job openings in Connecticut as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,788 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Program Manager, Democracy250

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT • On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Housed within the Allbritton Center for the Study of Public Life, the Program Manager leads the launch and implementation of DEMOCRACY250, a national, nonpartisan initiative designed to prepare college students to support democratic institutions during periods of civic strain.
The initiative reflects a growing recognition that colleges and universities can play a constructive role in strengthening democratic infrastructure by preparing students to work alongside election administrators, civic organizations, and community partners. Through advanced training in election processes, professional conduct, and ethical public service, students will be prepared for responsible roles such as poll workers, civic monitors, and other forms of civic engagement that reinforce public trust in democratic processes.
Reporting to the Executive Director of the Allbritton Center for the Study of Public Life, the Program Manager provides leadership for the initiative's first year, managing partnerships, coordinating student recruitment and training, and ensuring that program activities reflect the highest standards of nonpartisan civic engagement and institutional stewardship.
Responsibilities include:
Program Management and Implementation
  • Lead the planning, design, and implementation of DEMOCRACY250 programming and student engagement initiatives, translating program goals into structured plans, timelines and coordinated activities.
  • Develop and oversee the Democracy Stewards corps, including recruitment, selection, onboarding, and mentorship of participating students.
  • Collaborate with faculty leadership and external partners to design and develop training modules focused on democratic institutions, election processes, professional conduct, and ethical civic participation, ensuring consistent program delivery and alignment with initiative objectives.
  • Oversee program timelines, communications, and coordination across campus and partner institutions, and monitor program expenditures and support budget tracking to ensure responsible use of program resources.

Partnership Development and Stewardship
  • Cultivate and manage partnerships with universities and civic organizations participating in DEMOCRACY250, serving as a key liaison between Wesleyan and partner institutions.
  • Collaborate with partner campuses participating in the Democracy Stewards network to coordinate joint initiatives and programs.
  • Ensure partnerships align with the program's commitment to nonpartisan engagement and responsible institutional collaboration.

Student Placement and Program Oversight
  • Facilitate student placements with civic and election-adjacent organizations where appropriate.
  • Design and facilitate training sessions, workshops, and program convenings for participating students and partner institutions.
  • Educate participating students to understand and adhere to program standards of professional conduct and nonpartisan engagement.
  • Supervise and work closely with the Program Fellow to ensure efficient logistics, scheduling, and program operations, ensuring effective delivery of program activities.

Communication, Assessment, and Reporting
  • Monitor and track student participation, program outcomes, and institutional partnerships to support program evaluation and continuous improvement.
  • Prepare reports and evaluation materials for university leadership and external partners.
  • Document program activities and lessons learned to inform future program development and initiative growth.
  • Oversee program timelines, communications, and coordination across campus and partner institutions.

Staff Supervision
  • Supervise and provide guidance to the Program Fellow, supporting day-to-day program operations, project coordination, and student engagement activities.
  • Provide direction, feedback, and oversight to ensure effective completion of program tasks and alignment with DEMOCRACY250 program objectives.

Other Duties
  • Other duties as assigned.

This is a full-time, two-year term limited position. The position is based on campus. (Relocation assistance to CT is available for those who qualify).
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in public policy, political science, public administration, higher education, nonprofit management, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, experience, and/or training.
  • A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in program management, civic engagement, higher education administration, nonprofit organizations or a related field.
  • Experience planning, implementing, or evaluating programs, including tracking outcomes or preparing program reports.
  • Demonstrated ability to build and sustain collaborative relationships with colleagues, partner organizations, and external stakeholders.
  • Demonstrated effective communications skills, including experience preparing reports, program materials, and communication for diverse audiences.
  • Strong organizational, project management, and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, timelines and deliverables.
  • Demonstrated experience coordinating complex programs or initiatives involving multiple stakeholders, partner organizations, or institutions.
  • Demonstrated ability to work on multiple projects effectively and simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
  • Experience supervising, mentoring, or guiding staff, interns, or student workers or volunteers.
  • Demonstrated commitment to work within a diverse environment and interact openly with individuals of different backgrounds.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Master's degree in public policy, public administration, political science, higher education, or a related field.
  • Experience working with college students in leadership, public service, or civic engagement programs.
  • Familiarity with election administration, democratic institutions, or civic learning initiatives.
  • Experience managing multi-institutional programs or partnerships.

Position is open until filled. For full consideration please apply by July 16th when first review of applications will begin.
Compensation: $63,100-$80,125
Work Location: On Campus
All offers to external applicants are contingent on the candidate's completion of a pre-employment background check screening to the satisfaction of Wesleyan University.
Wesleyan University, located in Middletown, Connecticut, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, age, gender, gender identity or expression, national origin, marital status, ancestry, present or past history of mental disorder, learning disability or physical disability, political belief, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or non-position-related criminal record. We welcome applications from women and historically underrepresented minority groups. Inquiries regarding Title IX, Section 504 or any other non-discrimination policies should be directed to Vice President for Equity and Inclusion, Title IX and ADA/504 Coordinator.
Wesleyan University complies with the Clery Act and maintains records of campus crime statistics and security policies. Copies of Wesleyan University's Clery Act Report are available on request and online at https://www.wesleyan.edu/publicsafety/clery.html.
Experience is taken into consideration in the determination of salary offers. For more information visit https://www.wesleyan.edu/hr/handbook/compensation-practices/index.html
Wesleyan offers a broad range of employee benefits and development opportunities, including comprehensive group insurance plans, wellness programs and incentives, generous paid time off and retirement plans, flexible work schedules, employee and dependent tuition programs for those who qualify.
Detailed information on the benefits of working at Wesleyan is located at: https://wesleyan.edu/hr/careers/prospective-resources.html.