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If you’ve ever Googled “Program Director job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over again:
A wall of bullet points. Dry corporate jargon. No real context, no personality — and definitely no help if you’re trying to attract someone great.
The problem? Most job descriptions online aren’t written to attract top talent. They’re written to tick HR boxes. And that’s why they don’t work.
✅ A Program Director isn’t just a box-checker — they’re a high-impact leader responsible for aligning teams, driving outcomes, and translating strategy into real-world execution. But if your job post doesn’t communicate that clearly (and humanly), you’ll miss the mark with the people you actually want to hire.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to write a Program Director job description that does what most templates don’t:
- It connects with thoughtful, mission-driven candidates
- It sells the opportunity without sounding like marketing fluff
- And it respects the candidate’s time while elevating your brand
You’ll get two proven templates (one for experienced candidates, one for entry-level or up-and-coming leaders), a breakdown of what works, and a few bonus tips that separate forgettable posts from great ones.
But before we dive in—
If you haven’t read our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/, we strongly recommend checking it out. It covers the biggest mistakes hiring teams make—and how to fix them. Once you know what makes a great job description actually work, this template will be 10x more effective.
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results

What A Program Director Actually Is (Simple Breakdown)
A Program Director isn’t just managing timelines or juggling team schedules. They’re the strategic link between your organization’s mission and the outcomes you want to deliver.
In plain English?
They make big goals actually happen.
Program Directors oversee complex, cross-functional initiatives — often involving multiple teams, stakeholders, or departments. Their job is to ensure that programs stay aligned with the organization’s goals, run efficiently, and deliver meaningful impact.
That means managing more than just tasks — it includes:
- Setting the direction
- Aligning internal teams
- Resolving roadblocks
- Tracking results
- And communicating updates to leadership
But here’s the part that most job posts forget:
Great Program Directors don’t just manage projects — they build momentum.
They bring emotional intelligence, big-picture thinking, and leadership that inspires people to stay focused, even when challenges hit.
That’s why writing a job description that highlights your mission, culture, and expectations is so important. You’re not just filling a role — you’re inviting someone to help lead it.
Two Great Program Director Job Description Templates
✅ Option 1: Program Director (Experienced, Strategic Leader)
📌 Job Title: Program Director – Strategic Operations at RisePath Health
💼 Job Type: Full-Time | Hybrid (3 days in-office, 2 remote)
📍 Location: Atlanta, GA
💰 Salary: $105,000–$125,000/year (based on experience)
🎥 [Insert Loom video from the hiring manager introducing the company, the role, and what success looks like.]
Who We Are
RisePath Health is a patient-centered healthcare nonprofit working to improve care access for underserved communities. We operate statewide programs that support clinics, train staff, and help healthcare systems implement lasting improvements. We believe great leadership doesn’t just manage people — it drives real change.
Now, we’re looking for a Program Director who can help us scale our efforts, align internal teams, and deliver meaningful outcomes across multiple community-focused programs.
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You’re not just here to oversee deliverables. You’re here to lead—with intention. You’ll play a key role in guiding program strategy, improving team efficiency, and keeping initiatives aligned with our mission. You’ll have the trust and autonomy to shape the direction—and the support to do it well.
If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, love collaborating with smart, purpose-driven people, and want your work to create real impact—you’ll love this role.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead the planning, execution, and evaluation of 3–5 major healthcare programs
- Align program teams, internal ops, and external stakeholders around key milestones
- Monitor budgets, timelines, and impact metrics; adjust as needed to stay on track
- Work closely with the Executive Director and department leads on cross-functional goals
- Coach and mentor program managers; help remove roadblocks before they escalate
- Communicate program performance to leadership, funders, and community partners
What We’re Looking For
- 5+ years leading multi-stakeholder programs (nonprofit or healthcare preferred)
- A track record of turning strategy into outcomes
- Strong communication and leadership skills
- Experience with budgeting, reporting, and stakeholder management
- Systems thinker with the ability to zoom in and out on the details
Perks & Benefits
- Salary: $105,000–$125,000 DOE
- Hybrid work schedule (3 in, 2 remote)
- 20 PTO days + 10 paid holidays
- 401(k) with 4% match
- Annual professional development stipend
- Clear growth path into VP of Programs within 12–18 months
How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not buzzwords. Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen link]
🌱 Option 2: Program Coordinator / Assistant Program Director (Entry-Level or High-Potential Candidate)
📌 Job Title: Assistant Program Director – Youth Initiatives at BrightFutures
💼 Job Type: Full-Time | In-Person
📍 Location: Phoenix, AZ
💰 Salary: $48,000–$60,000/year + benefits
🎥 [Insert Loom video of the current Director sharing why this team matters and how this role supports their mission.]
Who We Are
BrightFutures is a community-based nonprofit serving at-risk youth across Arizona. From mentorship programs to college-readiness workshops, our mission is to help every young person find the support they need to thrive.
We’re growing fast—and we’re looking for an Assistant Program Director who’s eager to learn, grow, and make an impact from day one. If you’re organized, people-smart, and passionate about youth empowerment, this is for you.
Why You’ll Love This Role
This isn’t a checkbox job. You’ll wear many hats, learn from experienced program leaders, and be part of a team that celebrates progress—not perfection. We’ll mentor you, support your development, and give you the freedom to take initiative and grow into a leadership role.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Support day-to-day management of 2 major youth programs
- Track attendance, progress, and outcome metrics
- Coordinate volunteers and part-time staff
- Communicate updates with parents and community partners
- Attend weekly team planning sessions and monthly community events
- Help streamline internal systems and contribute new ideas
What We’re Looking For
- 1–2 years of experience in admin, education, youth services, or nonprofit work
- Clear communicator and team player
- Organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable using tools like Google Workspace
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus — but not required
- Most importantly: a strong desire to learn, contribute, and grow in this field
Perks & Benefits
- Salary: $48,000–$60,000/year
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 15 PTO days + wellness days
- On-the-job mentorship and training
- Career progression path to Program Director within 18–24 months
How to Apply
We don’t hire based on buzzwords—we hire based on strengths. That’s why we use WorkScreen. Click below to complete a short, structured evaluation to help us get to know you better:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen link]
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.

Why These Program Coordinator Job Posts Work
So, what makes these job descriptions different from the generic templates you’ll find online?
Let’s break it down.
✅ 1. Clear, Specific Job Titles
Instead of just saying “Program Director,” each title includes:
- The focus area (e.g., “Strategic Operations,” “Youth Initiatives”)
- The company name
- The location or work setup (in-person, hybrid, remote)
This instantly filters for relevance and attracts candidates who are aligned with the mission and work environment.
Generic: “Program Director”
Better: “Program Director – Strategic Operations at RisePath Health (Hybrid, Atlanta)”
✅ 2. Warm, Human Introductions
The best job posts don’t start with a lifeless company paragraph. They open with:
- A purpose: “Here’s what we do and why it matters.”
- A personal tone: “Here’s what we’re looking for and who this role is perfect for.”
This makes the post feel like an invitation instead of an announcement.
✅ 3. Mission & Culture Are Embedded
Most job posts toss in a vague “We value teamwork” at the end.
These templates embed culture and mission throughout the post:
- The “Who We Are” section builds trust and context.
- The “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” section helps candidates see themselves in the team.
- The tone, benefits, and CTA all reflect the organization’s values.
You’re not just telling people what you value—you’re showing it.
✅ 4. Transparent Salary & Perks
Both posts include:
- A clear salary range
- Key benefits (PTO, insurance, remote flexibility, growth tracks)
That transparency builds trust and encourages the right people to apply. Without it? You lose applicants who are unsure if the opportunity is viable for them.
✅ 5. The Role Has Meaning, Not Just Tasks
Every responsibility is written to show impact, not just output.
Instead of: “Track program metrics”
Try: “Monitor budgets, timelines, and impact metrics to keep programs aligned with our mission”
This shift helps candidates see how their work contributes to a bigger picture—which is a huge motivator for mission-driven professionals.
✅ 6. Respectful, Clear Hiring Process
Each post shows candidates exactly what to expect:
- Timelines for replies
- Use of WorkScreen for evaluations
- A promise to follow up
This stands out in a hiring world where most candidates hear nothing after applying. It builds credibility and makes your company look buttoned-up and human.
✅ 7. A CTA That Actually Converts
These posts don’t just say “Apply now.” They speak to the right person and give them a clear path forward:
“We don’t hire based on buzzwords—we hire based on strengths. That’s why we use WorkScreen.”
This kind of CTA screens out low-effort applicants while making high-intent candidates feel seen and respected.
Example of a Bad Job Description (and Why It Fails)
To help you spot the difference between a great job post and a forgettable one, here’s a real-world-style example of what not to do.
❌ Bad Job Description Example
Job Title: Program Director
Company: Global Impact Network
Location: Remote
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
We are seeking a Program Director to oversee the development, implementation, and evaluation of organizational programs. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills. The Program Director will collaborate with internal departments and external partners to ensure effective delivery of services.
Responsibilities
- Oversee program planning and execution
- Manage team and department operations
- Report to senior leadership on program metrics
- Maintain relationships with partners and vendors
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in relevant field
- 3–5 years of experience in program management
- Excellent communication and time-management skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office
How to Apply
Email your resume and cover letter to hr@globalimpact.org by August 15. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Fails
Let’s break down what’s wrong — and why top candidates will scroll right past it.
1. The Job Title Is Vague and Generic
There’s no indication of the program’s focus, mission, or impact. “Program Director” could apply to 100 different industries.
Compare that to:
✅ Program Director – Strategic Operations at RisePath Health
✅ Assistant Program Director – Youth Initiatives at BrightFutures
Those are specific, relevant, and role-defining.
2. The Introduction Is Cold and Corporate
Phrases like “seeking a Program Director to oversee…” don’t say anything real. There’s no mission, no culture, no context. Candidates want to know why this matters and who they’ll be helping.
3. The Responsibilities Are Empty
Tasks like “manage operations” or “report to leadership” are vague and uninspiring. They don’t help candidates visualize what a day in the role actually looks like—or why they should care.
4. The Requirements Are Box-Checky and Uninspired
“Bachelor’s degree in relevant field” and “proficiency in Microsoft Office” are table stakes—not differentiators. There’s no personality, flexibility, or invitation to grow into the role.
5. No Mention of Salary or Perks
This lack of transparency immediately reduces trust. Top candidates don’t want to waste time applying to a black box. They want to know if the opportunity aligns with their goals—financially and professionally.
6. The Hiring Process Feels Dismissive
The phrase “only shortlisted applicants will be contacted” tells candidates: “You might never hear from us.” It adds friction and signals that the company doesn’t respect the applicant’s time.
Contrast that with:
✅ “We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not buzzwords.”
7. The Tone Lacks Any Human Connection
There’s no warmth. No “why.” No vision. It feels like a formality, not an opportunity—and definitely not something that inspires a high-quality candidate to hit “Apply.”
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out
Most job posts follow the same pattern—title, bullets, apply here—and it shows.
But if you want to attract selective, thoughtful, and high-quality candidates, you need to go one step further. Here are some high-impact tips that can elevate your Program Director job post from average to exceptional:
🔐 1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Reassure applicants that your process is safe and trustworthy. This is especially important with scams on the rise.
Try something like:
“We take your privacy seriously. We will never ask for payment, personal banking information, or sensitive documents during any stage of the hiring process.”
This small line builds credibility—and makes your company look professional and ethical.
🌴 2. Mention Leave or Flex Time Upfront
Candidates care about time off—it tells them you understand work-life balance.
Example language:
“Enjoy up to 24 flex days off per year so you can recharge and come back stronger.”
If you offer wellness days, summer Fridays, or mental health time, say so. These small perks go a long way toward attracting emotionally intelligent, self-aware leaders.
📈 3. Highlight Growth & Training Opportunities
A smart Program Director doesn’t just want a job—they want a path. Talk about what they’ll learn and how they can grow.
Try something like:
“We invest in growth. You’ll get access to training, mentorship, and leadership coaching to support your development.”
This is especially powerful for emerging leaders in “Assistant” or “Deputy” Director roles.
🎥 4. Add a Loom or Video from the Hiring Manager
This is one of the most underrated ways to humanize your job post. A short 60–90 second video introducing the company, team, and why the role matters helps candidates connect emotionally—and instantly filters out low-effort applicants.
Bonus: It also sets you apart from every company posting faceless job ads.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
🤝 5. Be Clear About Your Hiring Process
Let applicants know what happens after they apply. Timelines, evaluations, communication—clarity creates trust.
Example:
“We use WorkScreen to evaluate candidates fairly based on real strengths—not just resumes. You’ll receive updates throughout the process, and we promise to notify every applicant of their status.”
🧠 6. De-Emphasize Perfect Experience—Emphasize Potential
If you’re open to hiring someone who’s smart, adaptable, and driven—but maybe not traditionally qualified—say so.
Try this:
“If you meet most of the requirements but not all, we still encourage you to apply. We value curiosity, leadership potential, and mission alignment just as much as experience.”
This widens your talent pool and helps you attract motivated, overlooked candidates.
Should You Use AI to Write a Job Description?
These days, it’s tempting to use AI to generate your job post in one click—especially with tools like Workable, Manatal, and even ChatGPT offering “job description generators.”
But here’s the truth:
❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
Auto-generating a job description without any real input may save time, but it usually backfires. Here’s why:
- You’ll end up with generic, lifeless content that reads like it was written by a bot (because it was).
- It attracts low-effort applicants who are applying to every role they see—without reading the post.
- It reflects poorly on your brand. Your job post is often the first impression candidates get of your company. Bland = forgettable.
A Program Director is a high-impact, high-context role. If your post doesn’t show thoughtfulness and clarity, top candidates will assume the role—and culture—are equally vague.
✅ How to Use AI The Right Way
AI can be a great tool—but only if you give it real inputs.
Here’s how to prompt AI to actually help you:
👎 Bad Prompt:
“Write a job description for a Program Director at a nonprofit.”
This gives you a cookie-cutter post that could belong to any organization, anywhere, with no mission, no values, and no unique tone.
👍 Good Prompt:
“Help me write a job post for our company, BrightFutures. We’re hiring an Assistant Program Director to support youth development programs in Phoenix. Our culture is collaborative, purpose-driven, and family-focused. We want to attract someone who is proactive, emotionally intelligent, and passionate about mentoring young people. We offer paid mentorship training, 15 days PTO, and clear growth into a full Program Director role within 18–24 months. Our hiring process includes a WorkScreen evaluation and a brief paid trial period to ensure mutual fit. Here are a few notes I’ve written: [insert bullet points].”
That prompt will actually produce something helpful—because you gave it clarity, tone, values, and structure.
Use AI to refine your post, not to write it blindly.
💡 Pro Tip:
Once you’ve written a clear, human, value-driven job post, you can ask AI to:
- Polish the tone
- Rewrite a sentence for clarity
- Suggest headline variations
- Catch blind spots
But the raw material still needs to come from you.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.

Need Copy-Paste Job Description Templates for Quick Use?
✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)
📌 Job Title: Program Director – [Insert Program Focus] at [Company Name]
💼 Job Type: [Full-Time] | [In-Person / Hybrid / Remote]
📍 Location: [City, State]
💰 Salary Range: [$XX,XXX–$XX,XXX/year]
🎥 [Insert Loom link to short video from the hiring manager introducing the role and team.]
Who We Are
At [Company Name], we don’t believe in business as usual. We run programs that create real change in [insert industry or cause], and we’re looking for a Program Director who’s ready to lead from the front—someone who can connect vision to execution and inspire teams to do their best work.
Why This Role Is Worth Your Time
This isn’t a “keep the trains running” type of role. You’ll be shaping program strategy, aligning teams, solving problems, and tracking real outcomes. You’ll collaborate with leadership, guide talented people, and help move our mission forward in meaningful ways.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead planning, execution, and performance across [insert number] programs
- Set and track key milestones, timelines, and outcomes
- Coach program managers and remove roadblocks before they escalate
- Liaise with leadership and stakeholders on program health and direction
- Help optimize internal systems, workflows, and team efficiency
What We’re Looking For
- [X+] years of experience leading high-impact programs
- A strategic thinker who can zoom in and out
- Strong communicator, proactive problem-solver, and team mentor
- Comfortable using tools like [Asana, Airtable, Google Workspace, etc.]
- Passion for [your mission or focus area]
Perks & Benefits
- Salary: [$XX,XXX–$XX,XXX/year]
- [#] PTO days + paid holidays
- [401(k), professional development budget, etc.]
- Hybrid or remote flexibility
- Clear path to growth (ex: Director → VP Programs)
How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not buzzwords. Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
📋 Option 2: Structured Format – Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements
Job Title: Program Director
Job Type: [Full-Time]
Location: [City, State / Remote]
Salary: [$XX,XXX–$XX,XXX/year]
Job Brief
We’re hiring a Program Director to oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of [insert program type] at [Company Name]. This role is responsible for aligning cross-functional teams, delivering program outcomes, and reporting on performance metrics to senior leadership.
Responsibilities
- Lead end-to-end program operations and strategy
- Ensure alignment across internal teams and external partners
- Manage program budgets, timelines, and evaluation frameworks
- Support and mentor program managers or coordinators
- Produce detailed reports and recommendations for executive leadership
Requirements
- X+ years experience in program management, operations, or a related field
- Strong leadership and stakeholder communication skills
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex, multi-phase programs
- Proficiency with [relevant software/tools]
- Bachelor’s degree in [related field] or equivalent experience
Benefits
- [$XX,XXX–$XX,XXX salary based on experience]
- [Health, dental, vision insurance]
- [#] PTO days + company holidays
- [Remote/hybrid flexibility]
- [Training, certification stipends, or internal promotion path]
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to evaluate candidates based on skills, not just resumes. To apply, click the link below and complete your short assessment:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step
Now that you’ve got your Program Director job description in place, it’s time to think about how you’ll manage the influx of applications and evaluate candidates effectively.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
Here’s how WorkScreen can help you level up your hiring process:
✅ Quickly Identify Your Most Promising Candidates
With WorkScreen, you’ll never waste time sifting through hundreds of irrelevant resumes again. Our platform automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard, helping you spot top talent instantly. It’s a game-changer for reducing time-to-hire and making data-driven decisions.
✅ Administer One-Click Skill Tests
With WorkScreen, you can use one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world skills and abilities—not just credentials. Whether it’s project management, budgeting, or team leadership, you can give candidates a chance to prove themselves in the areas that matter most for your role.
✅ Eliminate Low-Effort Applicants
WorkScreen filters out low-effort applicants especially with auto-fill tools, copy-paste answers, and one-click apply buttons by requiring candidates to complete structured, skills-based evaluations. This means you only see serious, qualified candidates who are genuinely interested in the role.
✅ Enhance Your Candidate Experience
Using WorkScreen shows your commitment to fair, transparent hiring. Your candidates will appreciate knowing they’re evaluated based on their actual skills, not just keywords on a resume. By using WorkScreen, you build trust and show that you’re serious about getting the best person for the job.
Once you’ve finalized your job post, simply share the WorkScreen link with candidates, and let the platform handle the next phase.

FAQ
The salary of a Program Director can vary widely depending on factors like industry, location, and level of experience. On average, a Program Director in the U.S. can expect to earn anywhere from $75,000 to $120,000 per year. However, in high-demand sectors like healthcare, technology, or large nonprofits, the salary can rise to $140,000 or more. It’s important to research the specific market for your industry and location to offer a competitive and attractive salary.
When hiring a Program Director, the following skills and qualities are essential:
- Leadership & Team Management: They need to lead teams, mentor others, and inspire collaboration toward a common goal.
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to see the big picture, anticipate challenges, and plan for long-term success.
- Project Management: A deep understanding of how to manage budgets, timelines, and resources effectively.
- Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills are crucial for working with teams, stakeholders, and executives.
- Problem-Solving: A Program Director must be able to resolve conflicts and find solutions to challenges quickly and efficiently.
- Analytical Skills: They should be able to analyze program performance, track metrics, and make data-driven decisions.
- Emotional Intelligence: The ability to understand, manage, and connect with people, both internally and externally, is vital for team morale and success.
Bonus Skills:
- Risk Management: Experience in identifying and mitigating risks associated with program execution.
- Budgeting & Financial Management: The ability to manage large budgets, control costs, and ensure that projects stay financially viable.
While both roles oversee programs, the main difference is the level of responsibility and scope. A Program Manager typically focuses on the day-to-day execution of a program, managing teams and ensuring tasks are completed on time. A Program Director, on the other hand, takes a more strategic role, overseeing multiple programs, aligning them with the organization’s goals, and managing senior-level stakeholders. In short, a Program Director has a broader scope and higher-level decision-making authority.
The qualifications for a Program Director can vary depending on the industry, but typically include:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in a relevant field (e.g., Business, Public Administration, Healthcare, or Nonprofit Management).
- X+ years of relevant experience, usually in leadership or program management roles.
- Certifications (optional, but beneficial in some industries) such as Project Management Professional (PMP) or Certified ScrumMaster (CSM).
Additional qualifications could include industry-specific knowledge or skills, such as healthcare management or tech program experience.
For those starting in entry-level or mid-level positions, it typically takes 5-10 years to grow into a Program Director role, depending on career progression and the organization’s structure. It involves gaining experience in program management, leadership, and strategic planning. Many candidates in these roles start out as project managers, coordinators, or assistants before moving into higher leadership positions.