Program Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the rapidly evolving business landscape, the role of a Program Specialist is gaining unprecedented attention.

As organizations navigate through an increasingly complex and dynamic environment, the need for skilled professionals who can effectively manage, oversee, and refine their programs grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What does a Program Specialist truly do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker seeking to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of program management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a tailored Program Specialist job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Program Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Program Specialists focus on overseeing, implementing, and improving specific programs within an organization.

They use their skills in project management, program coordination, and team leadership to ensure program goals are met effectively and efficiently.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Develop and implement program objectives and initiatives, based on strategic plans and goals
• Coordinate with various departments to ensure proper execution of the program
• Monitor the progress of the program, making necessary adjustments to ensure it stays on schedule and within budget
• Prepare and present program reports and updates to key stakeholders
• Provide training and guidance to team members involved in the program
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the program and implement improvements as necessary
• Ensure compliance with laws, regulations, and policies related to the program
• Maintain a knowledge base of current trends, developments, and advancements in the field related to the program
• Manage program resources and budget
• Handle the resolution of program-related issues and conflicts

 

Program Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a dedicated Program Specialist to design, develop, and manage our various programs.

The Program Specialist’s responsibilities include identifying program needs, working with team members to design and implement programs, and monitoring the success of programs to ensure goals are being met.

Our ideal candidate is an excellent communicator, able to work as part of a team, and has excellent project and program management skills.

The Program Specialist should be detail-oriented, have strong analytical skills, and be able to manage multiple tasks at the same time.

 

Responsibilities

• Identify program needs and make recommendations for improvements.
• Design and implement new programs and initiatives.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of programs and make improvements as needed.
• Ensure programs align with company goals and objectives.
• Work with team members to ensure program goals are met.
• Manage budgets for programs.
• Provide program updates and reports to management.
• Coordinate with other departments and stakeholders as needed.
• Stay informed of latest trends and advancements in program management.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Program Specialist or similar role.
• Strong knowledge of project and program management methodologies.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Management, or related field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Program Specialist
• Work Environment: Office setting with potential for remote work. May require occasional travel for meetings or conferences.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Program Manager or Department Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $105,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Program Specialist Do?

A Program Specialist is typically employed by various organizations including corporations, non-profits, and government agencies.

They are key players in project management teams and are often responsible for the coordination, implementation, and evaluation of a specific program or initiative within an organization.

Program Specialists work closely with various stakeholders such as program managers, team leads, and clients to help in developing program goals and objectives.

They assist in planning and outlining the necessary steps to achieve these objectives, including the allocation of resources and setting timelines.

Their role often involves monitoring the progress of a program, identifying any issues or risks, and finding potential solutions to keep the program on track.

They also collect and analyze data to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of the program, making recommendations for improvements when necessary.

Program Specialists may also be responsible for preparing reports and presenting program updates to senior management or clients.

They may play a key role in training or onboarding staff to ensure they are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to support the program.

In some cases, they may also handle administrative tasks related to the program, such as budgeting and financial tracking, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and standards.

Their ultimate goal is to ensure the successful completion of the program, meeting the established objectives and contributing to the overall goals of the organization.

 

Program Specialist Qualifications and Skills

Program Specialists should have a mix of relevant skills, qualifications, and industry knowledge in order to efficiently coordinate and manage programs, including:

• Strong organizational skills to manage and coordinate various aspects of the programs they are responsible for.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively discuss program details, changes, and requirements with program participants, staff, and management.
• Analytical skills to evaluate the effectiveness of programs, identify areas for improvement, and implement necessary changes.
• Problem-solving skills to address and resolve issues that may arise within the programs they oversee.
• Time management skills to balance multiple tasks and ensure all program requirements are met within set deadlines.
• Interpersonal skills to build relationships with a variety of stakeholders, including team members, management, and program participants.
• Attention to detail in order to monitor program compliance, track program outcomes, and maintain accurate program records.
• Understanding and knowledge of the specific industry or field in which the program is based.

 

Program Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for the Program Specialist position may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often from an internship or part-time role in project management, program coordination, or a related field.

These professionals can also gain on-the-job experience in roles such as Project Assistant, Program Associate, or other administrative roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience typically have developed their organizational and communication skills in entry-level Program Specialist or Program Coordinator roles.

They are often expected to have experience working with a variety of stakeholders and managing multiple tasks simultaneously.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some leadership experience in their background and may be ready for a managerial or supervisory position.

They may also have experience in strategic planning and program evaluation.

Certain roles, particularly those in specialized fields or larger organizations, may require a Program Specialist to have advanced relevant experience or specific certifications.

This could involve specialized knowledge of a particular industry or experience in developing and implementing complex programs.

 

Program Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Program Specialists generally possess a bachelor’s degree in business, psychology, social work, or a related field.

In addition to a relevant degree, they should also have knowledge of the specific area they are working in, such as healthcare, education, or technology.

Work experience in a related field can also be beneficial for those seeking to become a Program Specialist.

This could include experience in project management, administrative roles, or specialized roles relevant to the program they wish to specialize in.

Certain positions may require a master’s degree or higher in a specialized field, especially for senior or managerial roles.

This advanced degree indicates the candidate’s depth of knowledge in their chosen field and their commitment to ongoing learning and professional development.

Obtaining a certification in program management or a related field is also a common requirement for Program Specialists.

This certification can demonstrate the candidate’s skills and dedication to the profession, and may open up additional opportunities for career advancement.

Continuing education and staying up-to-date with industry trends and technological advancements are also key aspects of the role of a Program Specialist.

This may involve attending seminars, workshops, or other forms of professional development.

 

Program Specialist Salary Expectations

A Program Specialist typically earns an average salary of $60,981 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can vary greatly based on factors such as experience, area of expertise, the sector of employment, and the geographical location.

 

Program Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Program Specialist need?

A Program Specialist should possess excellent organizational and project management skills as they are often responsible for overseeing multiple programs or projects simultaneously.

Strong analytical skills and attention to detail are also important for measuring program effectiveness.

Additionally, they should have strong communication skills to liaise with various stakeholders, including staff, clients, and senior management.

 

Do Program Specialists need a degree?

Yes, most Program Specialist positions require at least a bachelor’s degree.

The field of study may vary but often is related to business administration, project management, or the field relevant to the program they will be managing.

Some employers may also require or prefer candidates with a Master’s degree or professional certifications in project or program management.

 

What should you look for in a Program Specialist resume?

When reviewing a Program Specialist’s resume, look for previous experience managing or coordinating programs or projects.

They should have demonstrated abilities in planning, executing, and evaluating programs.

Evidence of their skills in communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder management is also important.

Also look for any relevant certifications or degrees in the field.

 

What qualities make a good Program Specialist?

A good Program Specialist is highly organized and can manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.

They are effective communicators and can liaise well with different stakeholders.

They are analytical and can evaluate program results to make necessary improvements.

A good Program Specialist is also a problem-solver, able to address any issues that may arise during the implementation of a program.

 

What are the daily duties of a Program Specialist?

A Program Specialist typically starts their day by checking emails and responding to any urgent queries.

They might have a series of meetings with team members, stakeholders, or clients to discuss program progress and address any concerns.

Their day will also involve planning and monitoring program activities, managing resources, analyzing program outcomes, and preparing reports.

Depending on the program, they may also need to manage program budgets, perform risk assessments, or conduct program evaluations.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the exciting world of being a program specialist.

Guess what?

It’s not just about planning projects or programs.

It’s about shaping the future of business operations, one program at a time.

Armed with our reliable program specialist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step forward.

But why halt your journey here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next stage to create laser-focused job listings or refining your resume to absolute excellence.

Keep in mind:

Every planned program is a piece of a larger business puzzle.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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