Position
Salary

How much does a Program Specialist make?

The average salary for a Program Specialist is $56,121 per year in the US.

A Program Specialist plays a key role in managing and coordinating various programs. This role can be found in many different industries, including government, healthcare, and non-profits. The average yearly salary for a Program Specialist is around $56,121. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific industry.

The salary range for a Program Specialist can be quite broad. At the lower end, some specialists earn around $30,000 per year. As experience and skills grow, salaries can reach up to $125,517 annually. This wide range shows that there are many opportunities for growth and advancement in this career. Factors like education, certifications, and specific job duties can also influence salary levels.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Program Specialist?

Program Specialist jobs offer competitive salaries, with some cities standing out. Huntsville, Alabama, leads with an average salary of $100,431. Washington, DC, and Sacramento, California, follow closely, offering $94,836 and $90,827, respectively. These cities provide excellent opportunities for those seeking higher earnings in this field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Program Specialist jobs, highlighting Huntsville, AL with the highest at $100,431 and Abilene, TX with the lowest at $74,002.
  1. Huntsville, AL
    Average Salary: $100,431
    In Huntsville, professionals thrive in a vibrant tech hub. With companies like NASA and various defense contractors, the demand for skilled specialists is high. The city offers a mix of government and private sector opportunities.
    Find Program Specialist jobs in Huntsville, AL


  2. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $94,836
    Washington, DC, is a bustling center for policy and government work. Specialists here often collaborate with federal agencies. The city offers a dynamic environment with many networking opportunities.
    Find Program Specialist jobs in Washington, DC


  3. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $90,827
    Sacramento, the state capital, provides a unique environment for program specialists. Working with state government agencies, professionals here play a key role in public policy. The city offers a mix of urban and suburban living.
    Find Program Specialist jobs in Sacramento, CA


  4. Baton Rouge, LA
    Average Salary: $85,979
    In Baton Rouge, specialists find a blend of government and private sector roles. The city's focus on education and healthcare creates diverse opportunities. The warm climate and friendly community add to the appeal.
    Find Program Specialist jobs in Baton Rouge, LA


  5. Colorado Springs, CO
    Average Salary: $80,638
    Colorado Springs offers a mix of military and civilian opportunities. With a strong presence of defense contractors, specialists here enjoy a dynamic work environment. The scenic beauty and outdoor activities enhance the quality of life.
    Find Program Specialist jobs in Colorado Springs, CO


  6. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $80,207
    Santa Rosa provides a peaceful setting for program specialists. The city is known for its wineries and beautiful landscapes. Professionals here work in a variety of sectors, from tech to healthcare.
    Find Program Specialist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  7. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $79,337
    San Diego offers a vibrant coastal environment for specialists. With a strong presence of military and defense industries, the city provides diverse opportunities. The mild climate and outdoor activities make it an attractive place to live.
    Find Program Specialist jobs in San Diego, CA


  8. Albany, NY
    Average Salary: $76,813
    In Albany, the state capital, specialists work closely with government agencies. The city offers a mix of public and private sector roles. The historic charm and cultural events add to the appeal.
    Find Program Specialist jobs in Albany, NY


  9. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $75,657
    San Jose, the heart of Silicon Valley, is a tech hub for program specialists. With numerous tech companies, the city offers exciting opportunities. The fast-paced environment is ideal for those seeking innovation.
    Find Program Specialist jobs in San Jose, CA


  10. Abilene, TX
    Average Salary: $74,002
    Abilene provides a friendly and welcoming environment for specialists. The city is known for its strong community and healthcare sector. Professionals here enjoy a balanced lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities.
    Find Program Specialist jobs in Abilene, TX

What are the best companies a Program Specialist can work for?

Apple leads the pack for Program Specialist jobs, offering an average salary of $157,499. This tech giant provides a competitive edge for those seeking high compensation. Following closely, the City of Sacramento offers an average salary of $108,437, making it another attractive option for job seekers. Wells Fargo and L3Harris also offer strong salaries, with averages of $107,600 and $106,016, respectively. These companies provide excellent opportunities for Program Specialists looking for a balance between salary and job satisfaction.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Program Specialist jobs, highlighting Apple with the highest at $157,499 and Honeywell with the lowest at $86,343.
  1. Apple
    Average Salary: $157,499
    Apple offers exciting opportunities for Program Specialists. They work in various locations, including Cupertino, California, and other global offices. Apple focuses on innovation and technology, making it a great place for those passionate about the tech industry.


  2. City of Sacramento
    Average Salary: $108,437
    The City of Sacramento provides a range of roles for Program Specialists. They operate in Sacramento, California. This role involves community development and public service, offering a chance to make a real impact in the community.


  3. Wells Fargo
    Average Salary: $107,600
    Wells Fargo offers Program Specialist positions across the United States. They focus on financial services and customer support. Working here means being part of a large, well-established financial institution.


  4. L3Harris
    Average Salary: $106,016
    L3Harris Technologies provides Program Specialist jobs in various locations, including Melbourne, Florida. They work in aerospace and defense. This role is ideal for those interested in cutting-edge technology and national security.


  5. Los Angeles County Office of Education
    Average Salary: $105,093
    The Los Angeles County Office of Education offers Program Specialist roles in Los Angeles, California. They focus on educational services and support. This role is perfect for those passionate about improving education systems.


  6. U.S. Bank
    Average Salary: $103,350
    U.S. Bank offers Program Specialist positions across the United States. They work in financial services and customer support. This role provides a chance to be part of a major financial institution.


  7. Booz Allen Hamilton
    Average Salary: $98,289
    Booz Allen Hamilton offers Program Specialist jobs in various locations, including McLean, Virginia. They focus on consulting and technology. This role is ideal for those interested in problem-solving and innovation.


  8. State of Louisiana
    Average Salary: $97,498
    The State of Louisiana provides Program Specialist roles in Louisiana. They focus on public services and government operations. This role offers a chance to work in state government and make a difference.


  9. OPWDD - Office for People with Developmental Disabilities
    Average Salary: $90,122
    OPWDD offers Program Specialist positions in New York. They focus on supporting people with developmental disabilities. This role is perfect for those passionate about helping others and making a positive impact.


  10. Honeywell
    Average Salary: $86,343
    Honeywell offers Program Specialist jobs in various locations, including Charlotte, North Carolina. They focus on technology and manufacturing. This role is ideal for those interested in innovation and engineering.

How to earn more as a Program Specialist?

A Program Specialist can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining more experience and expertise in specific programs can lead to higher-paying positions. Specialization in areas like project management, data analysis, or IT can open doors to roles with better compensation. Networking with industry professionals and attending relevant conferences can also lead to job opportunities that offer higher salaries.

Pursuing additional certifications and degrees can significantly boost earning potential. Certifications in project management, such as PMP, or in specialized software can make a Program Specialist more valuable. Advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) or a specialized master’s degree, can also lead to higher-paying roles. Staying updated with the latest trends and technologies in the field ensures competitiveness in the job market.

Negotiating salary effectively is another crucial factor. Understanding the market rate for Program Specialists in a specific region and industry helps in setting a realistic expectation. Preparing a strong case with examples of past achievements and contributions can strengthen the negotiation position. Seeking advice from mentors or career coaches can also provide insights on effective negotiation strategies.

  1. Gain Experience and Expertise
  2. Pursue Additional Certifications and Degrees
  3. Network and Attend Conferences
  4. Negotiate Salary Effectively
  5. Stay Updated with Industry Trends

Currently 788 Program Specialist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Program Specialist in the US?

Learn what a Program Specialist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Program Specialist today.
Position
Overview
Program Specialist
788 Job Openings