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ESG Program Director Salary in the United States

How much does an ESG Program Director make in the United States?

As of January 01, 2026, the average salary for an ESG Program Director in the United States is $227,653 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $109.

However, an ESG Program Director's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $275,882
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $201,881 to $252,898
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $178,416
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View as table View as graph 25% $201,881 10% $178,416 90% $275,882 75% $252,898 $227,653 50%(Median) Didn’t find job title? Click

ESG Program Director Salaries by Percentile

Annual
Salary
Monthly
Pay
Weekly
Pay
Hourly
Wage
75th Percentile $252,898 $21,075 $4,863 $122
Average $227,653 $18,971 $4,378 $109
25th Percentile $201,881 $16,823 $3,882 $97
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Key Factors That Influence ESG Program Director Salaries

An ESG Program Director's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

Top Paying Cities for ESG Program Directors

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $287,138
  • San Francisco: $284,316
  • Oakland: $278,010

ESG Program Director Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how an ESG Program Director's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on January 01, 2026

ESG Program Director Salary Growth & Career Path

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As an ESG Program Director, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.

ESG Program Director Salary Growth and Career Path
Next Step Role Estimate Salary Projected Raise
Corporate Secretary $218,604 -4%
VP of ESG Program $251,882 11%

Most common benefits for ESG Program Director

Social Security
401(k)
Disability
Healthcare
Pension
Time Off (days)
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Common company salaries for ESG Program Director

Here are companies hiring for ESG Program Director and their salaries, click below for more details.

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FAQ about ESG Program Director

1. Where can an ESG Program Director earn the most?

An ESG Program Director's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, an ESG Program Director earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of an ESG Program Director is $287,138.

2. What is the highest pay for ESG Program Director?

The highest pay for ESG Program Director is $275,882.

3. What is the lowest pay for ESG Program Director?

The lowest pay for ESG Program Director is $178,416.

4. What are the responsibilities of ESG Program Director?

Directs the ESG function and establishes the strategic vision and governance framework to advance sustainability and ethical business performance. Leads the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of ESG policies, procedures, and SOPs to ensure alignment with regulatory expectations, global standards, and corporate priorities. Directs ESG data strategy, reporting, and assurance processes to provide insights and recommendations to drive accountability and transparency. Partners with senior leadership, cross-functional teams, and external stakeholders to embed responsible practices across organizations. Identifies emerging risks and opportunities, monitors performance metrics, and champions ESG programs to strengthen long-term value and reputation. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to senior management. Manages a departmental sub-function within a broader departmental function. Creates functional strategies and specific objectives for the sub-function and develops budgets/policies/procedures to support the functional infrastructure. Typically requires 5+ years of managerial experience. Deep knowledge of the managed sub-function and solid knowledge of the overall departmental function.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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