How much does a Program Specialist make?
A Program Specialist often makes a good living. The average yearly salary for this job is around $55,636. Salary can vary based on many things like experience and location. Those with more experience tend to earn more.
Here is a breakdown of salaries for Program Specialists:
- 12.45% earn less than $30,000
- 20.75% earn between $30,000 and $38,578
- 26.66% earn between $38,578 and $47,155
- 11.57% earn between $47,155 and $55,733
- 9.17% earn between $55,733 and $64,311
- 6.32% earn between $64,311 and $72,888
- 3.23% earn between $72,888 and $81,466
- 2.27% earn between $81,466 and $90,044
- 1.04% earn between $90,044 and $98,621
- 1.02% earn between $98,621 and $107,199
- 0.52% earn more than $107,199
What are the highest paying cities for a Program Specialist?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $94,112
In Washington, DC, a city of policy and influence, professionals manage projects for government agencies. They work with important organizations, like the Department of Health and Human Services, to improve public services. The competitive salary makes this a rewarding career choice.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $90,801
Sacramento, California, offers a vibrant environment for those in program management. Here, you can work with state government to create and implement programs. The median salary is attractive, making it a desirable place to work.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $86,715
In Santa Rosa, California, program specialists thrive in a supportive community. They often collaborate with non-profits to address local issues. The cost of living is moderate, and the job market is stable.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $86,360
Huntsville, Alabama, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and technological innovation. Program specialists here work with companies in aerospace and defense. They focus on developing projects that impact the community. The salary is competitive.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $82,905
San Jose, California, is at the heart of the tech world. Program specialists work with top companies like Google and Intel. They manage projects that drive technological advancement. The city's vibrant culture adds to the job experience.
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Baton Rouge, LA
Average Salary: $80,540
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is known for its rich history and culture. Program specialists here often work with government and educational institutions. They help develop programs that serve the community. The city's lower cost of living makes it an attractive place to work.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $78,982
San Diego, California, offers a mix of beautiful beaches and a thriving job market. Program specialists work with a variety of organizations, from non-profits to tech firms. They focus on projects that improve community services. The lifestyle here is excellent.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $77,546
Albany, New York, is the capital and offers a unique blend of political and administrative roles. Program specialists work with state government and educational institutions. They help create programs that benefit the community. The city's rich history adds to the job experience.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $75,693
Los Angeles, California, is a city of dreams and opportunity. Program specialists here work with large companies and government agencies. They focus on projects that impact the entertainment industry and community services. The city's diverse culture is a big plus.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $74,009
Seattle, Washington, is known for its tech industry and beautiful landscapes. Program specialists work with companies like Amazon and Microsoft. They manage projects that drive innovation. The city's high quality of life makes it a great place to work.
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What are the best companies a Program Specialist can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $170,039
Apple offers Program Specialist roles across various locations. With headquarters in Cupertino, CA, Apple leads in tech innovation. Employees manage projects and implement strategies. Positions exist in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
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Caterpillar
Average Salary: $146,769
Caterpillar provides roles for Program Specialists in Peoria, IL. This company deals with heavy machinery. Specialists here handle logistics and project management. Caterpillar operates globally, with offices in North America, Europe, and Asia.
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Amazon Web Services
Average Salary: $144,550
Amazon Web Services hires Program Specialists in Seattle, WA, and other global offices. AWS focuses on cloud computing. Specialists work on project management and client relations. They are key in ensuring smooth operations and client satisfaction.
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Boeing
Average Salary: $134,492
Boeing has Program Specialist jobs in Seattle, WA, and other locations. This aerospace giant needs experts in project management. Specialists work on large-scale projects and ensure compliance with regulations. Boeing operates worldwide.
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L3Harris
Average Salary: $118,974
L3Harris offers roles for Program Specialists in Melbourne, FL, and other sites. This company works in aerospace and defense. Specialists manage projects and ensure they meet technical standards. L3Harris has a global reach.
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Los Angeles County Office of Education
Average Salary: $108,396
The Los Angeles County Office of Education has Program Specialist positions. These roles focus on educational programs. Specialists manage budgets and ensure compliance. They work in Los Angeles, CA, and the surrounding areas.
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City of Sacramento
Average Salary: $108,298
The City of Sacramento offers roles for Program Specialists. These positions focus on community services. Specialists manage programs and ensure they run smoothly. They work within the city of Sacramento, CA.
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BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $104,748
BAE Systems USA has Program Specialist jobs in Arlington, VA, and other locations. This defense and aerospace company needs experts in project management. Specialists work on large-scale projects. They operate globally.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $97,860
Deloitte offers Program Specialist roles in New York, NY, and other offices. This consulting firm needs experts in project management. Specialists work on various projects and ensure they meet client needs. Deloitte operates worldwide.
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Montgomery County, MD
Average Salary: $86,662
Montgomery County, MD, offers Program Specialist positions. These roles focus on government programs. Specialists manage budgets and ensure compliance. They work within Montgomery County, MD.
How to earn more as a Program Specialist?
Increasing your earnings as a Program Specialist can be achieved through several practical steps. Focus on enhancing your skills, gaining more experience, and expanding your professional network. Each of these factors plays a key role in your career growth and salary potential.
Firstly, gaining additional certifications can help you stand out. These can show employers that you have specialized knowledge in certain areas. Certifications in project management or data analysis, for example, can add value to your role. Secondly, seek more experience. Each new project and role can help you build a stronger portfolio and increase your expertise. This makes you more attractive to employers willing to offer higher pay.
Networking also plays a crucial part. Building relationships with colleagues and industry professionals can lead to new job opportunities and salary negotiations. Don’t forget to ask for feedback and look for ways to improve in your current role. Continually learning and adapting can make a significant difference. Lastly, consider moving to a company that values your skills more highly. Researching and applying to such companies can result in better compensation packages.
Here are five factors that can help increase your earnings:
- Obtain additional certifications.
- Gain more experience through new roles and projects.
- Build and maintain a strong professional network.
- Regularly seek feedback and work on self-improvement.
- Consider moving to companies that offer better compensation.



