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Senior Program Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

philaymca

Senior Program Director

Spring Valley, PA

We are looking for a Senior Program Director to help lead the daily operations and success of one of our YMCA branches. Working closely with the Branch Executive, you'll provide strategic leadership ...

philaymca

Senior Program Director

Spring Valley, PA

We are looking for a Senior Program Director to help lead the daily operations and success of one of our YMCA branches. Working closely with the Branch Executive, you'll provide strategic leadership ...

YMCA

Senior Program Director

Greenfield, WI · On-site

$58K - $61K/yr

The Senior Program Director is responsible for the planning, development, supervision, and oversight of all Before and After School Care (Y BASE), camp, preschool, and 4K programs. The Senior Program ...

Holyoke YMCA

Senior Program Director

Holyoke, MA · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Senior Program Director, Youth Services FLSA Status: Exempt Date Prepared: 06/04/2026 Reports to: CEO/Associate Executive Director Leadership Level: Multi-Team Leader Department: Early Education ...

Clarity Recruiting

Senior Program Director

New York, NY · Remote

$126K - $127K/yr

Our client is seeking a Senior Program Director to curate, develop, and execute high-impact event programs. This role requires 10+ years of experience in event programming, with a proven background ...

Greater Holyoke YMCA

Senior Program Director

Holyoke, MA · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Senior Program Director, Youth Services FLSA Status: Exempt Date Prepared: 06/04/2026 Reports to: CEO/Associate Executive Director Leadership Level: Multi-Team Leader Department: Early Education ...

Holyoke YMCA

Senior Program Director

Holyoke, MA · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Senior Program Director, Youth Services FLSA Status: Exempt Date Prepared: 06/04/2026 Reports to: CEO/Associate Executive Director Leadership Level: Multi-Team Leader Department: Early Education ...

YMCA

Senior Program Director - Childwatch

Cedar Park, TX · On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

The YMCA of Central Texas is seeking a Senior Program Director in charge of ChildWatch in Cedar Park, TX at the Twin Lakes Family YMCA. Under the direction of the Twin Lakes Family YMCA Associate ...

CESO, Inc.

Senior Program Director

Brentwood, TN · On-site

$109K - $110K/yr

The Sr Program Director is responsible for the growth of client accounts. They will develop and execute strategies to grow client accounts by fulfilling other client needs and bringing in other ...

CESO, Inc.

Senior Program Director

Brentwood, TN

$109K - $110K/yr

The Sr Program Director is responsible for the growth of client accounts. They will develop and execute strategies to grow client accounts by fulfilling other client needs and bringing in other ...

CESO, Inc.

Senior Program Director

Brentwood, TN

$109K - $110K/yr

The Sr Program Director is responsible for the growth of client accounts. They will develop and execute strategies to grow client accounts by fulfilling other client needs and bringing in other ...

Eliassen Group

Sr. Program Director

Washington, DC · On-site

They are seeking a Sr. Program Director to lead a Security Operations Center program, ensuring the delivery of mission-critical cybersecurity services and managing stakeholder relationships.

Eliassen Group

Sr. Program Director

Washington, DC · On-site

$170K - $220K/yr

On-site in Washington, DC Our client seeks a Sr. Program Director to lead a Security Operations Center program. The role shall ensure delivery of mission-critical cybersecurity services, drive ...

Eliassen Group

Sr. Program Director

Washington, DC · On-site

$170K - $220K/yr

On-site in Washington, DC Our client seeks a Sr. Program Director to lead a Security Operations Center program. The role shall ensure delivery of mission-critical cybersecurity services, drive ...

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Senior Program Director information

See salary details

$39K

$115.2K

$155.5K

How much do senior program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior program director in the United States is $115,154.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Program Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Program Director, you need extensive experience in program management, strategic planning, and leadership, typically supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with project management tools (such as MS Project or Asana), budgeting software, and sometimes certifications like PMP or PgMP are highly valued. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and team-building skills set standout leaders apart in this role. These capabilities are crucial for effectively overseeing complex programs, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, and leading cross-functional teams to achieve successful outcomes.

What are Senior Program Directors?

Senior Program Directors are high-level managers responsible for overseeing multiple projects or programs within an organization. They provide strategic direction, ensure alignment with organizational goals, and manage teams of project managers or program coordinators. Their duties include budgeting, stakeholder communication, performance monitoring, and risk management. Senior Program Directors play a critical role in ensuring that programs are delivered on time, within scope, and meet the expected outcomes.

What is the difference between Senior Program Director vs Program Manager?

AspectSenior Program DirectorProgram Manager
CredentialsOften requires advanced degrees (e.g., MBA, PMP) and extensive experienceTypically requires a bachelor's degree; PMP or related certifications are common
Work EnvironmentStrategic leadership, overseeing multiple programs or departmentsOperational focus, managing specific projects or programs
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in large organizations, nonprofits, government agenciesCommon across various industries, including corporate, tech, and healthcare
Search & Comparison IntentHigh-level strategic roles, leadership responsibilitiesProject execution, day-to-day management

The main difference between a Senior Program Director and a Program Manager lies in scope and responsibility. Senior Program Directors focus on strategic oversight and leadership across multiple programs, often requiring advanced credentials and extensive experience. Program Managers handle specific projects, focusing on execution and operational management. Both roles are vital but differ in their level of strategic involvement and organizational impact.

How does a Senior Program Director typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure program success?

Senior Program Directors play a crucial role in aligning multiple departments—such as product development, marketing, finance, and operations—toward common program goals. They facilitate regular meetings, set clear expectations, and coordinate resources to address challenges and keep projects on track. Effective communication and relationship-building are essential, as the director must balance the needs and perspectives of various stakeholders while maintaining focus on overarching objectives. By fostering collaboration, they help ensure that projects are delivered on time, within scope, and to a high standard.
More about Senior Program Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Program Director jobs? Cities with the most Senior Program Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Senior Program jobs? The most popular types of Senior Program jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Senior Program Director jobs? The top employers for Senior Program Director jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Senior Program Director jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Program Director jobs are:
Senior Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Program Director job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,154 per year, or $55.4 per hour.

Senior Program Director

philaymca

Spring Valley, PA

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

We believe that great people build great communities.

We are looking for a Senior Program Director to help lead the daily operations and success of one of our YMCA branches. Working closely with the Branch Executive, you'll provide strategic leadership for our Camp, Sports, and Programming departments while driving operational excellence, developing high-performing teams, and delivering exceptional experiences for members and participants.

Some rewards for joining our team:
  • Free YMCA membership - access to all branches!
  • Flexible work schedule
  • Sweet discounts on child care and summer camp programs
  • Planning for your future? Ask us how we do it at the Y - it's awesome!
What is needed for this job as our Senior Program Director:
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent leadership experience
  • Five or more years of leadership experience in recreation, hospitality, retail, nonprofit, fitness, or another customer-focused industry
  • Experience leading large teams in a fast-paced environment
  • Experience managing departmental or branch budgets and financial performance
  • Demonstrated success improving customer experience, program participation, or operational performance
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends, based on business needs
  • CPR, First Aid, and other required YMCA certifications, or the ability to obtain
The responsibilities we will trust you with as our Senior Program Director:
  • Partner with the Branch Executive to lead daily branch operations and achieve organizational goals
  • Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for Camp, Sports, and Programming, ensuring high-quality experiences and strong program performance
  • Develop, expand, and evaluate programs that increase participation, engagement, retention, and community impact
  • Recruit, hire, train, supervise, and develop department leaders, staff, and volunteers across assigned program areas
  • Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and exceptional member service
  • Manage departmental budgets and monitor financial performance to achieve revenue and operational goals
  • Coordinate branch-wide communication, special events, and cross-functional initiatives
  • Ensure compliance with YMCA policies, safety standards, risk management practices, licensing requirements, and applicable regulations
  • Support volunteer engagement, fundraising efforts, and the YMCA Annual Campaign
  • Serve as a visible leader within the branch, helping create a welcoming, inclusive, and mission-driven environment
What you can expect:
  • Support from an experienced branch leadership team
  • Opportunities to grow your leadership career within one of the nation's largest YMCA associations
  • A collaborative environment where your ideas and leadership make a lasting impact
  • Meaningful work that strengthens individuals, families, and communities every day

YMCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected status.

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