1

Software Program Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Engineering Program Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$132K/yr

You bring an AI-first Technical Program Management lens to everything you do, embedding ... Ability tofind opportunities to embed AI across the software delivery lifecycle. * Working ...

Senior Program Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$129K - $258K/yr

Senior Program Manager, Strategic Programs Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people ... You will drive execution across modern software development efforts, reduce technical debt, and ...

Client Program Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Experience with CRM software and client success tools. * Demonstrates a high level of responsiveness and commitment to client program success. Preferred Skills: * Familiarity with client success ...

Senior Program Manager

Chicago, IL

$119K - $120K/yr

Our robust suite of fintech software enables us to support clients such as Stash, Betterment, SoFi ... This role involves managing project portfolios and ensuring the successful delivery of program ...

Senior Program Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$129K - $258K/yr

Senior Program Manager, Strategic Programs Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people ... You will drive execution across modern software development efforts, reduce technical debt, and ...

Principal Program Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$157K - $205K/yr

As a Principal Program Manager, you will deliver large projects or programs and drive new service ... Unique opportunity to work on a truly disruptive software product * Get unique, hands-on experience ...

Deputy Program Manager

Bolingbrook, IL ยท On-site

$114K/yr

... controls & execution software, robotics, Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS ... Job Summary The (Client) Deputy Program Manager supports the (Client) Program Manager and Sales ...

Technical Program Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site +1

$89K - $110K/hr

This role will lead complex hardware and software development programs from concept through ... Manage program risks, dependencies, action items, and escalation paths proactively * Track project ...

Technical Program Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$85K - $92K/yr

This role will lead complex hardware and software development programs from concept through ... Manage program risks, dependencies, action items, and escalation paths proactively * Track project ...

Senior Program Manager

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$119K - $120K/yr

As the Senior Program Manager, Strategic Programs, you will lead enterprisescale digital ... You will drive execution across modern software development efforts, reduce technical debt, and ...

Senior Program Manager

Waukegan, IL ยท On-site

$110K - $110K/yr

As the Senior Program Manager, Strategic Programs, you will lead enterprisescale digital ... You will drive execution across modern software development efforts, reduce technical debt, and ...

Senior Program Manager

Waukegan, IL ยท On-site

$110K - $110K/yr

As the Senior Program Manager, Strategic Programs, you will lead enterprisescale digital ... You will drive execution across modern software development efforts, reduce technical debt, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Software Program Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39

$63

$81

How much do software program manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for software program manager in Chicago, IL is $63.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58.17 and $70.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software program manager?

Software Program Managers are professionals who oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of software projects within an organization. They coordinate cross-functional teams, manage project timelines and budgets, and ensure that software products meet business goals and quality standards. Their role involves risk management, stakeholder communication, and resolving any issues that could impact project success. Software Program Managers act as a bridge between technical teams and business leaders to ensure alignment throughout the software development lifecycle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software program manager?

To thrive as a Software Program Manager, you need expertise in project management, software development life cycles, and a relevant degree, often complemented by experience in leading technical teams. Familiarity with tools such as Jira, Microsoft Project, and Agile or Scrum certifications is typically required for planning and tracking progress. Strong communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for aligning teams and managing expectations. These competencies are vital to deliver projects on time, within scope, and to ensure effective collaboration among cross-functional teams.

How does a software program manager typically collaborate with development and QA teams to ensure project success?

A Software Program Manager works closely with both development and QA teams to align project timelines, clarify requirements, and address roadblocks as they arise. They facilitate regular meetings, such as stand-ups or sprint reviews, to ensure everyone is on the same page and that priorities are being met. By acting as a bridge between technical and non-technical stakeholders, Program Managers help ensure that quality standards are maintained while deadlines are achieved. Effective communication and proactive issue resolution are key aspects of their collaboration with these teams.

What is the difference between Software Program Manager vs Software Project Manager?

AspectSoftware Program ManagerSoftware Project Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple related projects, aligns them with business goals, manages interdependenciesManages individual software projects, focuses on scope, schedule, and deliverables
CertificationsPMI-ACP, PMP, Agile certifications often preferredPMP, Scrum Master, Agile certifications
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, cross-project coordination, stakeholder communicationDay-to-day project execution, team management, task tracking
Industry UsageCommon in large organizations managing multiple projectsCommon in both small and large teams focusing on specific projects

While both roles involve project management skills, a Software Program Manager oversees multiple related projects to ensure strategic alignment, whereas a Software Project Manager focuses on the successful delivery of individual projects. The Program Manager handles broader coordination and stakeholder communication, often requiring similar certifications but with a focus on program-level objectives.

Are software program managers in high demand?

Software program managers are in high demand due to the growth of technology companies and the need for effective project coordination. They often require strong leadership, technical knowledge, and experience with project management tools like Agile or Scrum. The role is expected to grow as organizations increasingly rely on software development and digital transformation.

What does a software program manager do?

A software program manager oversees the planning, execution, and delivery of software projects, coordinating teams, managing schedules, and ensuring project goals are met. They often work with cross-functional teams, utilize project management tools, and require strong communication and organizational skills.

What are popular job titles related to Software Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Software Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Software Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Program Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Software Program Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Software Program Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Software Program Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,383 per year, or $63.6 per hour.

Program Manager - Manufacturing

Lapmaster Wolters

Mount Prospect, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Oversee the execution of high precision machine tool projects, ensuring timelines, budgets, and production targets are met.

  • Coordinate cross-functional teams and communicate with stakeholders to identify and resolve project issues promptly.

  • Manage project documentation, including scope, design requirements, and transition to production, while tracking progress and performance metrics.


Job description

Company Description:
Lapmaster Wolters is a leading global supplier of precision machine tools and semiconductor wafer processing equipment headquartered in Chicago’s Northwest suburbs near O’Hare Airport. Our diverse team works with a broad variety of industries and technologies. Our technical expertise includes Precision Machining, Motion Control, Robotics, Automation, Machine Design, and Process Expertise on a wide range of materials. Our customers include small, mid-sized and Fortune 100 companies in a spectrum of industries including Semiconductor, Electronics, Automotive, Aerospace, Precision Bearings, Optics/Electro-optics, Industrial Equipment, and Medical Devices. Our business model is to utilize leading technologies and exceptional engineering talent coupled with outstanding customer service to solve manufacturing and precision machining problems. With over 60 years of experience, Lapmaster Wolters has a proven history of successfully developing cost effective solutions for virtually any application requiring precision machining, flatness, parallelism, roundness, or surface finish. 
Job Description:
Lapmaster is seeking an experienced Program Manager to oversee successful execution of various projects primarily high precision machine tools. These projects are generally fast-paced and challenging with significant impact on the future of the company.
The Program Manager will oversee successful execution of projects with emphasis on customer management, ensuring that engineering, supply chain, and production targets align. The Program Manger must bridge the gap between design and factory floors, managing timelines, budgets, and production scaling while tracking performance via metrics.
Responsibilities include:
 
  • Work with sales and marketing team to gather and compile inputs from internal experts, market studies, strategic customers, and external consultants when appropriate.
  • Work with management and engineering staff to clearly document the scope, features, design requirements, budget, and timeline for each major project utilizing Stage-Gate methodology to drive efficiency in new product development efforts.
  • Define resource requirements and skills needed for successful project execution with particular emphasis on identifying resource gaps at the beginning of each project and at periodic checkpoints during execution.
  • Compile project plans using Microsoft Project (or other preferred project management software) and define dependencies, milestones, specific tasks, deadlines, etc. then track execution and provide regular updates to management.
 
  • Communicate directly with key stakeholders and project participants from Management, Sales, Engineering, Procurement, and Manufacturing to identify and resolve issues quickly with the goal of adhering to the project timeline.
  • Coordinate cross functional teams including engineering, quality assurance, supply chain, procurement, and operations which may include external specialists or consultants and will likely be distributed across multiple locations and time zones
  • Resource Management: Manage budgets, balance resources across multiple projects, and ensure capacities meet demand spikes.
  • Risk & Issue Mitigation: Identify blockers—such as material shortages or equipment failures—and develop rapid-response solutions to keep projects on track
  • Drive documentation efforts through all phases of project execution to enable smooth transition from prototype build to production release, including assembly procedures, quality metrics, installation and maintenance manuals, etc.
  • Coordinate crating, rigging and shipment of machine to customer location
    Experience and Qualifications:
    The Program Manager will report to the General Manager and have at least the following qualifications.
  • Bachelor’s Degree in a technical field with 5+ years of program management experience.
  • Computer skills in Microsoft Office and Microsoft Project.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and manage changing priorities.
  • Strong working knowledge of manufacturing methods, preferably in high precision automated machine tools.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills including effective use of Teams or similar web-based meeting software.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently.
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship, now or at any time in the future.
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer (EEO)
 

Powered by JazzHR

xObH86WVyA