ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Sports Program Director Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Little Gym

Program Director

San Jose, CA · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

As our Program Director , you'll lead and develop our team, bring our curriculum to life, and ... dance and sports prep, plus enjoyable extras like camps, Parents' Survival Nights and Awesome ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsSports Program JobsSports Program Director JobsSports Program Director Jobs in California

Sports Program Director information

See California salary details

$29.1K

$77.2K

$135.2K

How much do sports program director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for sports program director in California is $77,172.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $91,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a sports program director do?

A Sports Program Director is responsible for overseeing and coordinating sports programs and activities within an organization, such as a community center, school, or athletic club. Their duties typically include planning sports events, managing staff and coaches, ensuring safety protocols, and evaluating program effectiveness. They also handle budgeting, scheduling, and communication with participants and stakeholders to ensure the smooth operation of sports programs.

What are some typical challenges sports program directors face when managing multiple teams or events simultaneously?

Sports Program Directors often juggle various responsibilities, such as coordinating schedules, managing staff, and ensuring the smooth execution of multiple events or team activities. Balancing the needs of athletes, coaches, and parents can be challenging, especially during peak seasons. Effective time management, strong communication skills, and the ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances are crucial for success in this dynamic role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sports program director, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sports Program Director, you need strong leadership, program management, and knowledge of sports administration, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in sports management or a related field. Familiarity with scheduling software, budgeting tools, and program evaluation systems is common, and some roles may require certification in CPR or coaching. Excellent communication, organizational skills, and the ability to motivate staff and participants are standout soft skills. These skills and qualities are important because they ensure effective program delivery, participant safety, and the overall success and growth of sports initiatives.

What is the difference between Sports Program Director vs Sports Coach?

AspectSports Program DirectorSports Coach
Primary RoleOversees entire sports programs, manages staff, develops policiesTrains and mentors athletes, develops training plans, provides direct coaching
Required CredentialsOften requires a degree in sports management or related field, certifications may varyTypically requires coaching certifications, relevant experience, sometimes a degree
Work EnvironmentAdministrative offices, sports facilities, community centersPlaying fields, gyms, sports venues
FocusProgram management, administration, strategic planningAthlete development, skill improvement, game strategy

The main difference between a Sports Program Director and a Sports Coach lies in their scope of responsibilities. The Sports Program Director manages entire sports programs, focusing on administration and strategic planning, while the Sports Coach works directly with athletes to improve their skills and performance. Both roles require relevant certifications and experience, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sports Program jobs in California?

The most popular types of Sports Program jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Sports Program Director jobs in California?

For Sports Program Director jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Sports Program Director jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Sports Program Director jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Sports Program Director jobs?

Cities in California with the most Sports Program Director job openings:

Sports Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sports Program Director job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,172 per year, or $37.1 per hour.

Sports Program Coordinator II - Encinitas

YMCA of San Diego County

Encinitas, CA • On-site

$22.64 - $27.17/hr

Part-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Overview

The Sports Program Coordinator II provides outstanding customer service, guidance, and leadership to all members and participants within the scope of the program of oversight. The Coordinator is reserved for a large branch with oversight to multiple programs/departments simultaneously. The Coordinator supervises a minimum of (20) twenty program staff and performs administrative duties to assist leadership in smooth operation of the department.

This is for the Sports Director to work part-time as needed to support Sports

For information on Y Employee Perks, click on this link: Employee Benefits | YMCA of San Diego County (ymcasd.org)

Schedule

  • Part time, Weekdays 
Responsibilities
  • Coordinates the organization and implementation of program details  
  • Assist in purchasing and reconciliation of program expenses
  • Assists with the recruitment and hiring of program staff and volunteers
  • Provide office support and perform other related duties, as needed
  • Help maintain participant data and oversee program registration
  • Follow and maintain standards, guidelines, objectives, and goals of the assigned YMCA
  • Manage staff schedules and reconciliation of timecards for program staff
  • Ability to adequately observe participant and member activities, enforce safety regulations, and apply appropriate policies and procedures
  • Address program concerns and ensure safety of program participants and staff
  • Participate as a team player to ensure that the YMCA image and mission statement are upheld
  • Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
  • Minimum 5+ years' of experience in customer service
  • Previous supervisor experience, including hiring, training, scheduling, evaluating, coaching, and monitoring
  • Must obtain and maintain all applicable certifications for the position, if needed
  • Proficient in computer and office administration skills
  • Licensing, state law and our government funders require that staff within YMCA of San Diego County be fingerprinted, prior to reporting to work, and include subsequent arrest notifications 
  • CPR/AED, and First Aid Certification, must include Adult and Child/Infant, obtained within 30 days of hire and must be from one of the following certifying organizations: 
    • American Red Cross
    • American Heart Association
    • American Safety & Health Institute

YMCA will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the San Diego County Fair Chance Ordinance and the California Fair Chance Act. You do not need to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if the YMCA is concerned about conviction that is directly related to the job, you will be given the opportunity to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report. Find out more about the Fair Chance Ordinance by visiting the San Diego County Office of Labor Standards and Enforcement.

Pay RangeUSD $22.64 - USD $27.17 /Hr.Employment Type: PART_TIME

Apply