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Senior Program Director Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Program Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

$72K/yr

Program Director LOCATION/DEPT: Adele and Robert Stern Red Shield Community Center PEOPLE MANAGER ... Programming for pre-school, youth, teen, adult, senior, families, special needs. * Offer programs ...

Program Director LOCATION/DEPT: Adele and Robert Stern Red Shield Community Center PEOPLE MANAGER ... Programming for pre-school, youth, teen, adult, senior, families, special needs. * Offer programs ...

Program Manager, Senior

Chicago, IL · On-site

$119K - $120K/yr

The Sr Program Manager will play a critical role in advancing a future-ready insurance platform and ... Direct experience implementing EIS or other core insurance platforms. * Master's degree in Business ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Program Director information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$40.2K

$118.6K

$160.2K

How much do senior program director jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior program director in Chicago, IL is $118,625.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $119,500.00 and $120,000.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Senior Program jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Senior Program jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Program Director jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Senior Program Director jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Senior Program Director job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Program Director job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,625 per year, or $57 per hour.

Program Director

Union League Boys and Girls Clubs

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Description:

PRIMARY FUNCTION:

The Program Director position is a year-round management role responsible for overseeing the planning, development, implementation, and evaluation of the Clubhouse program for youth ages 5 to 18 within a designated Club. The Program Director supports our three priority outcome areas of Academic Success, Healthy Lifestyles, and Good Character and Citizenship. They will also provide leadership and supervision to the assigned program and volunteer staff. Additional responsibilities include, but are not limited to, helping manage member & grant databases; coaching, training, and developing program staff; managing budgets; and controlling expenses as assigned.

KEY ROLES (Essential Job Responsibilities):


Prepare for Youth Success

1. Plan and oversee the administration of designated Clubhouse programs and activities that support Youth Development Outcomes:

· Establish Clubhouse program objectives consistent with organizational goals and mission.

· Oversee the provision of day-to-day program activities in accordance with established standards and goals.

· Ensure that members are encouraged to participate in a variety of program areas/activities and receive instruction and constructive feedback to develop skills in program areas.

· Demonstrate leadership to assure conduct, safety, and development of members.

Program Development and Implementation

2. Establish and maintain Clubhouse program goals and settings that ensure the health and safety of members. Ensure that site staff understand and effectively communicate program standards; that they ensure program areas are safe, well-ventilated, and well-lit; and that club equipment is maintained in good working order.

3. Ensure the evaluation of Club programs on a continual basis and ensure programs/activities respond to member needs and address their gender and cultural diversity.

4. Control Clubhouse program and activity expenditures within the approved budget.

Supervision

5. Allocate and monitor work assigned to program volunteers and staff, providing ongoing feedback and regular appraisal. Identify and support training and development opportunities for assigned volunteers and staff.

6. Oversee proper record keeping and reporting, including activities and events conducted, breakdowns of daily participation figures, notable achievements, and any problems/issues.

7. Ensure productive and effective performance by all program staff and volunteers.

Marketing and Public Relations

8. Increase visibility of Club programs via posting of daily schedule, announcements of upcoming events, and the dissemination of timely information for the development of advertising and promotion through mailings, fliers, and media releases.

9. Assist Senior Director in establishing and maintaining a partnership with local schools to increase the membership/ADA of the designated Clubhouse.


ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. May oversee special programs and/or events (i.e., Keystone, Youth of the Year, and Awards Programs), and/or participate in the implementation of other unit activities as necessary.

2. May be required to drive the Club van periodically.

3. May consult with parents concerning member and branch issues.

4. Help to increase the development of front-line staff by completing NTI Tier 2 TOT, Weikart Methods TOT, and Weikart External Assessor Training.

5. Assist in the general upkeep of the site. Participating in regular walkthroughs of the site while working closely with the Senior Director to implement maintenance systems.

6. Volunteer Management and tracking.

7. Assume other duties as assigned.

8. Attend BGCA’s Club Directors Academy to ensure knowledge of the Continuous Quality Improvement Process.


RELATIONSHIPS:

Internal: Maintain close, daily contact with Club staff (professional and volunteer), Club members, and supervisor to receive/provide information, discuss issues, explain or interpret guidelines/instructions; instruct, and advise/counsel.

External: Maintain contact as needed with external community groups, schools, members' parents, and others to assist in resolving problems.

Requirements:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

SKILLS/KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:

• Four-year degree in related field from an accredited college or university, or equivalent experience.

• A minimum of five years’ work experience in a Boys or Girls Club or similar organization planning and supervising activities based on the developmental needs of young people.

• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.

• Group leadership skills, including an understanding of group dynamics.

• Demonstrated organizational, staff and project management abilities.

• Mandatory CPR and First Aid Certifications.


PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Valid driver’s license
  • Experience with budget management

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Able to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods of time
  • Able to lift up to 25 pounds for short periods of time