How much does a Program Specialist make?
Program Specialists have an important job in various industries. They help plan and manage programs. Their work often involves coordinating with teams and ensuring projects run smoothly. Many people find this role rewarding and essential.
When it comes to salary, Program Specialists earn a fair wage. The average yearly salary stands at about $55,558. Some factors can change this amount, such as experience and location. For example, someone in a major city might earn more than someone in a smaller town. A person with more years of experience may also have a higher salary. The table below shows the different salary ranges:
- 10th percentile: $30,000
- 25th percentile: $38,578
- 50th percentile: $47,155
- 75th percentile: $64,311
- 90th percentile: $90,044
These numbers show that Program Specialists have good earning potential. With time and experience, salaries can increase, making this a great career choice for many job seekers.
What are the highest paying cities for a Program Specialist?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $94,375
In Washington, DC, one can find impactful roles in government and nonprofits. Key companies like the World Bank and USAID offer rewarding experiences. A program specialist here engages in policy analysis and project management.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $90,988
Sacramento provides a dynamic environment for program specialists. Working with state agencies, they manage programs in education and public health. Companies like the California Department of Education offer exciting projects.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $86,715
Santa Rosa offers a blend of community-focused work and tech innovation. Specialists here often work for local nonprofits and tech startups. They play a key role in program development and community outreach.
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Huntsville, AL
Average Salary: $85,871
In Huntsville, program specialists find opportunities in aerospace and defense sectors. Companies like NASA and various defense contractors provide challenging and rewarding work. They work on mission-critical projects and program oversight.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $83,580
San Jose, a tech hub, offers exciting roles in program management. Specialists here support Silicon Valley companies. They focus on innovative projects and operational efficiency.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $80,201
San Diego provides a vibrant setting for program specialists. Working with companies like Qualcomm and biotech firms, they manage research projects and community programs. The coastal city offers a unique blend of urban and natural environments.
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Baton Rouge, LA
Average Salary: $79,942
Baton Rouge offers a mix of government and healthcare opportunities. Specialists here support programs in education and public health. Key employers include the state government and major hospitals.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $77,274
In Albany, program specialists work with state agencies and nonprofit organizations. They focus on policy implementation and community services. The city offers a rich history and a vibrant civic life.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $75,061
Los Angeles offers diverse opportunities in entertainment, healthcare, and education. Program specialists here manage diverse projects. They often work with major corporations and nonprofit organizations.
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Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $74,514
Rochester provides a mix of healthcare and education roles. Program specialists here support initiatives in public health and education. They often work with prominent organizations like the University of Rochester and local nonprofits.
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What are the best companies a Program Specialist can work for?

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Apple
Average Salary: $165,890
Apple offers exciting Program Specialist roles with competitive salaries. These positions focus on supporting various programs across locations, including Cupertino, California. Apple provides innovative projects and opportunities for career growth.
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Caterpillar
Average Salary: $148,008
Caterpillar seeks talented Program Specialists who will work on diverse projects. The company operates in many locations, including Deerfield, Illinois. Caterpillar values professional development and offers a positive work environment.
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Amazon Web Services
Average Salary: $144,550
Amazon Web Services provides top-tier Program Specialist positions with rewarding salaries. The company has offices in Seattle, Washington, and other global locations. AWS offers a dynamic and innovative workplace for professionals.
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Boeing
Average Salary: $136,836
Boeing offers promising Program Specialist roles with an attractive salary package. The company operates in several locations, including Seattle, Washington. Boeing is known for its commitment to safety and innovation in the aerospace industry.
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L3Harris
Average Salary: $117,768
L3Harris Technologies provides competitive salaries for Program Specialists. They have offices in Melbourne, Florida, and other locations. L3Harris focuses on delivering cutting-edge solutions for defense and commercial markets.
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Los Angeles County Office of Education
Average Salary: $108,396
The Los Angeles County Office of Education offers Program Specialist roles with a good salary. They operate throughout Los Angeles County. This role involves supporting educational programs and initiatives across various locations.
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BAE Systems USA
Average Salary: $104,766
BAE Systems USA offers Program Specialist positions with a competitive salary. They have offices in Arlington, Virginia, and other locations. BAE Systems is known for its focus on technology and defense solutions.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $97,860
Deloitte provides Program Specialist roles with a solid salary. The company operates in multiple locations, including New York, New York. Deloitte values innovation and offers opportunities for professional growth and development.
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Montgomery County, MD
Average Salary: $85,122
Montgomery County, MD, offers Program Specialist roles with a competitive salary. They operate in several locations within the county. This role involves supporting various programs and initiatives to benefit the community.
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State of Illinois
Average Salary: $82,389
The State of Illinois offers Program Specialist positions with a good salary. They operate across the state, including Chicago, Illinois. This role supports various government programs and services to the public.
How to earn more as a Program Specialist?
Program Specialists can boost their earnings by focusing on several key areas. They should aim to enhance their skills and knowledge. This includes gaining new certifications and attending workshops. Networking also plays a big role. Connecting with other professionals can lead to better job opportunities. Another important factor is taking on more responsibilities at work. This can show employers that someone is ready for higher-paying roles.
Seeking roles in high-demand industries can also increase pay. These sectors often pay more due to the need for skilled workers. Finally, being open to relocation can lead to better-paying jobs. Some areas have higher salaries for Program Specialists. By considering these factors, one can work towards higher earnings.
Factors to increase earnings as a Program Specialist include:
- Enhancing skills and knowledge through certifications and workshops.
- Building a strong professional network to discover more job opportunities.
- Taking on additional responsibilities to show readiness for higher-paying roles.
- Exploring high-demand industries with better pay opportunities.
- Being open to relocating to areas with higher salaries for the role.



