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Special Programs Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SpaceX

Program Director, Special Programs

Hawthorne, CA

$185K - $260K/yr

... DIRECTOR, SPECIAL PROGRAMS Join us in pioneering cutting-edge, innovative space-based capabilities that redefine National Security. Build revolutionary technologies to protect and advance our nation ...

SpaceX

Program Director, Special Programs

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$185K - $260K/yr

... DIRECTOR, SPECIAL PROGRAMS Join us in pioneering cutting-edge, innovative space-based capabilities that redefine National Security. Build revolutionary technologies to protect and advance our nation ...

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How much do special programs director jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for special programs director in the United States is $115,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $107,500.00 and $122,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Special Programs Director, you need strong program management, strategic planning, and leadership skills, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with grant management software, data analysis tools, and compliance systems is typically required. Exceptional communication, problem-solving, and adaptability help you effectively lead teams and build partnerships. These skills ensure programs are executed successfully, meet objectives, and create meaningful organizational impact.

What are some common challenges faced by a Special Programs Director and how can they be addressed?

Special Programs Directors often face the challenge of coordinating multiple projects with diverse stakeholders and ensuring that program goals align with organizational priorities. Balancing limited resources and adapting to changing regulations or funding requirements can also be demanding. To address these challenges, successful directors prioritize clear communication, proactive planning, and strong relationship-building with team members and external partners. Regular evaluation and flexibility in adapting strategies are also key to keeping programs effective and impactful.

What is a Special Programs Director?

A Special Programs Director is responsible for planning, implementing, and overseeing specialized projects or initiatives within an organization, such as educational enrichment, grant-funded programs, or community outreach. They coordinate staff, manage budgets, and evaluate program effectiveness to ensure goals are met. This role often requires strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills to work with various stakeholders and adapt to changing needs. Special Programs Directors may work in schools, nonprofits, government agencies, or private companies, depending on the type of programs offered.

What is the difference between Special Programs Director vs Program Manager?

AspectSpecial Programs DirectorProgram Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree; certifications like PMP can be beneficialUsually requires a bachelor's degree; PMP certification is common
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple projects or initiatives, often at a strategic levelManages specific projects or programs, focusing on execution
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in nonprofit, government, and corporate sectors for specialized initiativesCommon across various industries for project execution

The Special Programs Director focuses on strategic oversight of multiple initiatives, often leading large or complex projects, while the Program Manager handles the day-to-day management of individual projects within a program. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in scope and responsibility.

What cities are hiring for Special Programs Director jobs? Cities with the most Special Programs Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Special Programs jobs? The most popular types of Special Programs jobs are:
What states have the most Special Programs Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Special Programs Director jobs include:
Special Programs Director jobs near you
Program Director, Special Programs

Program Director, Special Programs

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA

$185K - $260K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 142 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 59 rated aerospace companies

Job description

PROGRAM DIRECTOR, SPECIAL PROGRAMS 

Join us in pioneering cutting-edge, innovative space-based capabilities that redefine National Security. Build revolutionary technologies to protect and advance our nation's most critical missions.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

  • Build and manage a team that delivers spacecraft hardware through volume production and flight 
  • Drive multiple active programs simultaneously and ensure good architectural decisions are being made, execution timelines are appropriately met, and roadblocks are removed quickly to maintain rapid progress 
  • Personally dive into the hottest problems with the team to ensure the most program threatening issues are getting the right amount of attention and action 
  • Develop and maintain a technical roadmap that grows the engineering team's core capabilities and progresses the portfolio of Special Programs missions 
  • Coach and develop future leaders in running programs and leading teams 
  • Establish a strong engineering culture where individuals are willing to take healthy risks, and the environment is one where the best idea gets presented and wins
  • Pull together strong resource plans that ensure program success and inform credible hiring needs 
  • Develop accurate sales forecasts with a demonstrated track record of achieving revenue milestones on time; prepare comprehensive program and capital budgets to ensure optimal investment in technology and program development
  • Ensure production yields and on orbit performance are maintained at healthy levels 
  • Serve as the primary contact for assigned US Government customers
  • Work with multidisciplinary teams across the company to ensure timely submittal of high-quality mission deliverables and on-time execution of mission milestones

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or physics 
  • 10+ years of experience in the aerospace industry 
  • 5+ years of technical project management experience in an aerospace organization
  • Active Top-Secret SCI, or DOE Level Q clearance  

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE: 

  • Strong ability to partner with other engineering disciplines to achieve ambitious objectives 
  • 15+ years of professional experience in spacecraft engineering, test, and integration of payloads, ground systems, communications, and government systems, with in-depth knowledge of US Government spacecraft requirements
  • Demonstrated excellence in technical program management
  • Demonstrated success in negotiating, capturing, and executing large US Government contracts. 
  • Detail-oriented, diligent, and hard-working with excellent customer interface and leadership skills
  • Experience interacting with and presenting to the US Government 
  • Knowledge of US Government testing standards and specifications 
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Must be willing to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed to meet critical deliverable and launch/test schedule timelines
  • Able to travel for short and extended trips as needed (up to 25% travel)

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:

Pay Range:    

Program Director: $185,000.00- $260,000.00/per year.

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.

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