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Trio Program Director Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Trio Program Director information

See Austin, TX salary details

$31.7K

$108.1K

$181.4K

How much do trio program director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for trio program director in Austin, TX is $108,096.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,300.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Trio Program Directors, and how can they be effectively managed?

TRIO Program Directors often face challenges related to balancing compliance with federal regulations while also providing personalized support for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Managing grant requirements, documentation, and reporting can be demanding, especially when paired with the need to foster a supportive and engaging environment for both staff and participants. Effective strategies include implementing strong organizational systems, maintaining open communication with staff and stakeholders, and staying current with policy updates. Developing partnerships with other campus departments and community organizations can also help TRIO Directors address student needs more holistically.

What is a Trio Program Director?

TRIO Program Directors are professionals who oversee federally funded TRIO programs designed to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds in their pursuit of higher education. They manage program operations, supervise staff, ensure compliance with federal regulations, and work to achieve program goals such as increasing college access and retention. TRIO Program Directors also handle budgets, reporting, and outreach efforts to serve eligible students effectively. Their leadership is vital to the success of programs like Upward Bound, Talent Search, and Student Support Services.

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

To thrive as a TRIO Program Director, you need expertise in education administration, program management, and experience working with first-generation or underrepresented students, often supported by a master's degree in education or related fields. Familiarity with federal grant management systems, data reporting tools, and compliance regulations such as the U.S. Department of Education's guidelines is essential. Strong leadership, cultural competency, and communication skills help foster a supportive environment and manage diverse teams effectively. These skills ensure the program meets its goals, secures ongoing funding, and positively impacts student success.

What is the difference between Trio Program Director vs Trio Coordinator?

AspectTrio Program DirectorTrio Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, experience in program management, possibly certifications in education or social servicesAssociate or Bachelor's degree, relevant experience in program support or administration
Work EnvironmentLeads program planning, manages staff, oversees budgets, interacts with community partnersSupports program activities, assists with administrative tasks, coordinates participant services
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, government agencies, non-profits in education and social servicesSimilar settings, often within the same organizations as Program Directors

The Trio Program Director typically holds more advanced responsibilities, including leadership and strategic planning, while the Trio Coordinator focuses on supporting program activities and administrative tasks. Both roles are essential in the Trio program structure, but the Director oversees the entire program, whereas the Coordinator assists with day-to-day operations.

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Trio Program Director jobs? Cities near Austin, TX with the most Trio Program Director job openings:

Grant Director- McNair Scholars

Texas State University

San Marcos, TX • On-site

$5.0K - $6.2K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


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Job description

Posting Information
Posting Information
Posting Number
2026551
Posting/Functional Title
Grant Director- McNair Scholars
University Pay Plan Title
Grant Director, Non-Faculty
Location
San Marcos
Department
McNair Scholars
Recruitment Type
Open Recruiting
Job Type
Full-Time
Funding Source
Grant
Monthly Salary
$5,000.00 - $6,250.00
Job Category
Exempt
Required Qualifications: Applicants must specifically address how they meet these required qualifications to meet the requirements of the position.
  • Doctoral degree in higher education administration, student development, counseling, social work, or STEM-related field.
  • Experience in collegiate teaching, administration, scholarly activities, developing research materials, or working with academic support programs to promote graduate school enrollment and doctoral degree attainment.
  • Knowledge of higher education academic programs, research, and scholarly activities.
  • Experience with academic support programs, or other student support services;
  • Experience advising students on academics, financial aid, college and career preparation.
  • Experience planning, coordinating, and implementing services for college students.
  • Experience managing programs, budgets, staff, and processes.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge of TRIO or other higher education academic programs and support services and effective practices supporting student recruitment, retention, and development.
  • Three (3) years of experience in staff supervision, budget management, program development and evaluation, reporting, and compliance with federal regulations.
  • Five (5) years of experience in collegiate teaching, administration, scholarly activities, developing research materials, or working with academic support programs to promote graduate school enrollment and doctoral degree attainment.
  • 2 years program management experience including fiscal management, database management, and staff supervision.
  • Bilingual (Spanish) speaking/writing.
  • Experience working with SAP/Excel for budgets and financial processes.

Job Description
  • This is a grant funded position. Continuation of this position is contingent upon grant funding.
  • The Director is responsible for the daily operation and facilitation of the programmatic and administrative components of the McNair Scholars program.
  • The Director will be responsible for coordinating and providing administrative oversight for all phases of the Program.
  • Primary duties involve implementation of program activities and services to meet specific program objectives.
  • Main office location at the Texas State University Campus in San Marcos, Texas.
  • Evening and weekend work may be required.

Job Duties
  • Responsible for the daily operation of the program and all components associated with the program.
  • Conduct regularly scheduled group and individual meetings with program staff.
  • Prepare and administer program budget in accordance with federal and university budgetary policies and procedures.
  • Develop and implement strategies to meet program objectives.
  • Maintain relevant data and metrics on performance to measure and evaluate goals and objectives.
  • Develop and maintain processes for keeping accurate records. Monitor file/record keeping schedule in accordance with university guidelines. Conduct regularly schedule reviews of participant files and financial information.
  • Communicate and correspond with Department of Education Program officers on program performance (annual report), annual budgets, program needs, requests, progress updates and questions.
  • Work with university departments to resolve any issues that may arise as they pertain to budgets, financial analysis, reconciliations, procurement, travel, the hiring process, office maintenance or otherwise.
  • Attend State, Regional and National Conferences.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Additional Information to Applicants
Please include a cover letter that addresses how you meet the required and preferred qualifications in the order in which they are listed in this job posting.
Job Open Date
05/28/2026
Job Close Date (posting closes at midnight)
Open Until Filled
Yes
Normal Work Days
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
Normal Work Hours Start
8:00AM
Normal Work Hours End
5:00PM
Posting Notices
Applicant must have a valid Texas Driver's License and be a driver in good standing with less than ten (10) points deducted for driving infractions as determined by the employer driving standards system.
Legal and Required Notices
Texas State University is committed to a policy of non-discrimination and equal opportunity for all persons regardless of race, sex, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal or state law in employment, educational programs, and activities and admissions.
Employment with Texas State University is contingent upon the outcome of record checks and verifications including, but not limited to, criminal history, driving records, education records, employment verifications, reference checks, and employment eligibility verifications.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. The University will not sponsor or assume sponsorship of any candidate requiring a petition for a H1B employment visa.
Why Choose Texas State University?
Join the Texas State Bobcat team and experience a career that offers more than just a job-it's a path to a brighter future. As a Texas State employee, you'll enjoy:
Exceptional Benefits: Comprehensive health insurance with 100% premium coverage for employees and 50% for dependents, starting on your first day.
Generous Time Off: Enjoy vacation, holidays, sick leave, and more to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Wellness and Balance: Access a FREE wellness program, plus mother and family-friendly resources to support your personal well-being.
Professional Growth: Explore a wide range of training, development courses, certifications, and educational support programs.
Welcoming Campus: Become part of a vibrant Bobcat community with numerous social and professional networks.
Tuition Benefits: Take advantage of tuition support for yourself and for your dependent children, making higher education more accessible for your family.
Retirement Security: Secure your future with TRS pension, retirement plans, and voluntary savings options with strong employer contributions.
At Texas State University, you're not just an employee-you're a valued member of a thriving and beautiful campus community. Start your journey with us today. https://www.hr.txst.edu/benefits.html
Quick Link
https://jobs.hr.txstate.edu/postings/57139

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