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Technical Program Director Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

VML

Freelance Program Director

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

Freelance Program Director (open to remote EST or CST) Who we are looking for: VML is seeking a ... You consider yourself a team captain - someone who can manage scopes of work, complex technical ...

Vizient, Inc.

Technical Program Manager, Spend

Chicago, IL · On-site

$77K - $135K/yr

Lead technical programs involving cloud platform modernization, enterprise SaaS applications, data ... Influence cross-functional teams and executive leadership without direct authority to achieve ...

Vizient

Technical Program Manager, Spend

Chicago, IL

$77K - $135K/yr

Lead technical programs involving cloud platform modernization, enterprise SaaS applications, data ... Influence cross-functional teams and executive leadership without direct authority to achieve ...

VML

Freelance Program Director

Chicago, IL · On-site

Freelance Program Director (open to remote EST or CST) Who we are looking for: VML is seeking a ... You consider yourself a team captain - someone who can manage scopes of work, complex technical ...

Rivian

Staff Technical Program Manager - Paint

Normal, IL · On-site

$126K - $163K/yr

... Director, Manufacturing Engineering. Responsibilities * Program Management: Own and develop ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, or a related technical field. * 7+ years' experience managing ...

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All JobsTechnical Program JobsTechnical Program Director JobsTechnical Program Director Jobs in Illinois

Technical Program Director information

See Illinois salary details

$86.2K

$141.1K

$163.3K

How much do technical program director jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for technical program director in Illinois is $141,136.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,000.00 and $161,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a technical program director?

To thrive as a Technical Program Director, you need expertise in program management, a strong technical background (often in computer science or engineering), and experience leading large-scale projects. Familiarity with project management tools (like Jira or Asana), agile methodologies, and certifications such as PMP or Scrum Master are commonly required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and strategic thinking skills help you manage cross-functional teams and stakeholders effectively. These skills ensure programs are delivered on time, within scope, and aligned with organizational goals in complex technical environments.

How does a technical program director typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to drive project success?

A Technical Program Director works closely with engineering, product management, design, and business teams to align project goals and technical requirements. They facilitate regular meetings to ensure clear communication, resolve roadblocks, and keep all stakeholders informed of progress and changes. By fostering a collaborative environment, they help teams anticipate challenges early and maintain momentum toward shared objectives. This role often acts as a bridge between technical and non-technical departments, ensuring alignment and smooth project execution.

What is the difference between Technical Program Director vs Technical Project Manager?

AspectTechnical Program DirectorTechnical Project Manager
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering, computer science, or related fields; certifications like PMP or PgMP are commonUsually holds a bachelor's degree in a technical field; PMP or similar certifications are often preferred
Work EnvironmentLeads multiple projects across departments, focusing on strategic alignment and long-term goalsManages individual projects, ensuring timely delivery and scope management
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in tech companies, large corporations, and organizations with complex product portfoliosWidely used in IT, software development, and engineering firms for project execution

The Technical Program Director focuses on overseeing multiple interconnected projects and aligning them with strategic business objectives, while the Technical Project Manager handles the day-to-day management of specific projects. Both roles require technical expertise and certifications, but their scope and responsibilities differ significantly.

How do I become a technical program director?

To become a technical program director, candidates typically need a strong background in engineering, computer science, or related fields, along with extensive experience managing complex technical projects and teams. Relevant skills include leadership, strategic planning, and familiarity with project management tools like Agile or Scrum. Earning certifications such as PMP or PgMP can also enhance qualifications for this role.

Is being a technical program director a good career?

A technical program director is a senior role responsible for overseeing complex projects, coordinating teams, and aligning technical initiatives with business goals. It typically requires strong leadership, project management skills, and technical knowledge, often supported by certifications like PMP or Agile. The role offers high responsibility, competitive compensation, and opportunities for advancement in technology-driven organizations.

What does a technical program director do?

A technical program director oversees the planning, execution, and delivery of complex technical projects within an organization. They coordinate cross-functional teams, manage budgets and timelines, and ensure technical goals align with business objectives, often requiring strong leadership, communication skills, and familiarity with project management tools like Agile or Scrum.

What are the most commonly searched types of Technical Program jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Technical Program jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Technical Program Director jobs in Illinois?

For Technical Program Director jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Technical Program Director jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Technical Program Director jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Technical Program Director jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Technical Program Director job openings:

Technical Program Director jobs near you
Infographic showing various Technical Program Director job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 62% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,136 per year, or $67.9 per hour.

Freelance Program Director

VML

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Freelance Program Director

(open to remote EST or CST)

Who we are looking for:

VML is seeking a Freelance Program Director, who will be responsible for overseeing the overall delivery stack, all related processes, software and hardware for a dedicated client in the Automotive space, and act as a primary point of contact with client leadership, all stakeholders and serve as the "connective tissue" between internal resources and external connections.  This role will serve as part Project Leader, Management Consultant and Delivery Manager both for our client stakeholders and internal production teams.

The ideal candidate will have experience leading in and thriving in an agile and collaborative work environment. You will have worked on complex production delivery projects/campaigns, inclusive of all project elements and phases from inception to completion while remaining cool under pressure. You are familiar with the complexities and regulations within marketing content and its production. You consider yourself a team captain - someone who can manage scopes of work, complex technical roll outs and workstreams across different interagency teams and agency partners with ease. You have your finger on the pulse on the latest technology trends. You are a leader, able to convey strategic insights and offer consultation to internal and external stakeholders.

What you will do:

  • You will work with internal Process and Project Management teams to drive innovative initiatives, analyze, plan and implement the technological solutions that are part of our roadmap and drive cross-brand projects acting as the primary point of contact for clients.
  • Consult and support and serve as a key pillar to our internal production and account teams as you identify opportunities for streamlining, automating or implementing efficient processes within VML and for our clients.
  • Own and grow the relationship with the counterparts at our clients, such as internal creative and social media groups, Business Technology Leaders and License Owners and you will have an active role within VML, with visibility and involvement in the development of new proposals, products and services.

Who you are:

  • A Builder, possessing an entrepreneurial attitude coupled with strong business acumen. You possess the gravitas and appetite to bring people together, while marshaling people and building consensus to drive ideas and launch solutions.
  • Open and collaborative: Our team is close-knit and supportive and we're working with a lot of unknowns. You must be a champion of team environments that are comfortable and encouraging.
  • Optimistic and resilient: Dig in and figure out how to work around problems. Exemplify a "Yes and why not?" posture. Takes care of self and team. Balance needed to maintain stamina and positivity.
  • Ego-less: We all wear the hats that need wearing, it's a mentality that makes the team successful.

What You'll Need:

  • Ideally 5+ years of project and delivery management experience in advertising or marketing communications; a minimum of 3+ years of hands-on experience managing technical, digital projects and other 360 campaigns (digital, CLM, CRM, etc.)
  • PMP certification is nice to have and successful implementation of Agile a plus
  • Experience of working in (preferably large) agencies on large global accounts
  • Self-driven with proven experience working with multi-disciplinary teams (CX, UX, Tech, Creative, PM/AM) across remote offices
  • Good understanding of emerging web standards, user-centered design, optimization and search practices
  • Experience with SalesForce Marketing Cloud a plus
  • High EQ and the ability to read what a team needs to help motivate them
  • Proficiency in MS Office products
  • Availability to travel within the US and to other VML offices

Apply