Job Search

Project Coordinator vs. program coordinator: What Are the Differences?

Learn about the two careers and review some of the similarities and differences between them.

A project coordinator and program coordinator are both responsible for organizing and overseeing the progress of a project or program. Though these roles share some similarities, there are several key differences between them. In this article, we discuss the differences between a project coordinator and a program coordinator, and we provide additional information on related careers.

What is a Project Coordinator?

A Project Coordinator is responsible for supporting the project manager in the planning, execution and completion of a project. They work with the project manager to develop project timelines, track project milestones and deliverables, and coordinate project resources. Project coordinators also communicate project updates to stakeholders, provide administrative support to the project team, and maintain project documentation. In some cases, project coordinators may also be responsible for developing project proposals and presentations.

What is ?

Program coordinators develop, implement and oversee programs and projects within an organization. They work to ensure that programs and projects are completed on time, within budget and meet all goals and objectives. To do this, program coordinators develop timelines, create and monitor budgets, track milestones, coordinate with project teams and report progress to stakeholders. They may also be responsible for developing and delivering training on program or project-related topics. Additionally, program coordinators often serve as a liaison between project teams and other departments within the organization to ensure smooth communication and collaboration.

Project Coordinator vs.

Here are the main differences between a project coordinator and .

Job Duties

A project coordinator oversees the entire project, from beginning to end. They’re responsible for making sure each team member completes their tasks and that all the necessary resources are available when needed. Project coordinators work closely with the client to ensure they’re happy with the final product.

A program coordinator manages a specific program within the project. They make sure each team member has the resources they need to complete their tasks and monitor progress. Program coordinators report back to the project coordinator with updates and may suggest changes if the project is running behind schedule.

Job Requirements

Project coordinators typically need a bachelor’s degree in business administration, project management or another related field. Some employers prefer candidates to have a master’s degree as well, but it is not required for entry-level positions. Additionally, many project coordinators pursue certifications through the Project Management Institute (PMI) or other organizations. These organizations offer training programs that teach professionals how to use project management software and other tools they might need on the job.

Work Environment

Both project and program coordinators work in office environments, but the type of environment they work in can differ. A project coordinator may work for a company that has multiple projects going on at once, so their job is to manage each one individually. They might also work with clients or customers to ensure that the client’s needs are met during the project.

A program coordinator works for an organization that has several programs running simultaneously. For example, if they worked for a nonprofit, they might coordinate all of the different aspects of the organization’s fundraising efforts. This means that they often work in more collaborative environments than project coordinators do.

Skills

Both project coordinators and program coordinators need to have excellent organizational skills. This includes the ability to keep track of deadlines, budget and progress reports. They also both need to be able to communicate effectively with their team, clients and other stakeholders.

Project coordinators tend to focus more on the individual tasks that need to be completed in order to meet a goal, whereas program coordinators take a more holistic view of all the projects and initiatives that are happening simultaneously. Program coordinators also need to have strong problem-solving skills as they often need to find creative solutions to address issues that arise.

Salary

Project coordinators can earn an average salary of $58,126 per year, while program coordinators can earn an average salary of $43,954 per year. Both of these average salaries may vary depending on the size of the company at which you work, location of your job and the level of experience you have prior to pursuing either position.

Previous

General Manager vs. Head Coach: What Are the Differences?

Back to Job Search
Next

Tech Lead vs. product owner: What Are the Differences?