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Assistant Program Officer Jobs in McLean, VA (NOW HIRING)

Counterpart International is currently seeking a Program Officer to assist the Africa Team with financial and administrative management of their programs in this region, and especially, to contribute ...

Counterpart International is currently seeking a Program Officer to assist the Africa Team with financial and administrative management of their programs in this region, and especially, to contribute ...

Program Action Officer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$55K - $126K/yr

Program Action Officer The Opportunity: Booz Allen is seeking a highly driven Program Action ... As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with ...

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Assistant Program Officer information

See McLean, VA salary details

$21.7K

$46.2K

$63.7K

How much do assistant program officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant program officer in McLean, VA is $46,218.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,900.00 and $48,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an assistant program officer do?

An Assistant Program Officer supports the planning, implementation, and evaluation of programs within an organization, often in the nonprofit, government, or educational sectors. They assist with administrative tasks, help coordinate program activities, maintain documentation, and communicate with stakeholders. Their role is vital in ensuring that programs run smoothly and achieve their goals. They may also help with budget tracking, reporting, and researching best practices for program improvement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant program officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Program Officer, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and experience in project management, program evaluation, and research. Familiarity with data analysis tools, grant management systems, and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite are commonly required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing multiple tasks and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills ensure programs are executed efficiently, objectives are met, and stakeholder relationships are maintained.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant program officers when managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Assistant Program Officers often juggle several projects at once, which can present challenges in prioritization and time management. Balancing competing deadlines, coordinating with diverse stakeholders, and adapting to shifting program needs require strong organizational skills and flexibility. Successful professionals in this role proactively communicate with team members, use project management tools, and regularly review progress to stay on track. Being open to feedback and willing to adjust plans as needed are also key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Assistant Program Officer vs Program Officer?

AspectAssistant Program OfficerProgram Officer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, relevant experienceBachelor's or master's degree, more experience
Work EnvironmentSupportive team, entry to mid-levelLeadership role, project management
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, NGOs, government agenciesSimilar sectors, more responsibility
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Assistant Program Officer and a Program Officer lies in their level of responsibility and experience. Assistant Program Officers typically support program activities and handle administrative tasks, while Program Officers oversee projects, manage teams, and make strategic decisions. Both roles are common in nonprofit and government sectors, with the Program Officer position requiring more experience and leadership skills.

What cities near McLean, VA are hiring for Assistant Program Officer jobs?

Cities near McLean, VA with the most Assistant Program Officer job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Program Officer job openings in McLean, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,218 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

Assistant Program Officer, Middle East and North Africa (MENA)

Washington, DC • On-site

National Endowment for Democracy
International Affairs • 201 - 500 employees

$42K - $53K/yr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Assistant Program Officer, Middle East and North Africa (MENA)

The Assistant Program Officer will work with Middle East and North Africa (MENA) program leadership to assist with the management, administration, and development of NED's programming in North Africa, and possibly other Middle East countries. This is a hybrid position based in Washington, DC, and is part of the bargaining unit.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Work closely and flexibly with a diverse range of civic actors working on good governance, media freedom, human rights, rule of law, public policy, civic education, and other areas related to democratic development.
  • Assist in the evaluation of project proposals.
  • Produce written materials and presentations to provide funding recommendations to NED leadership.
  • Communicate regularly with existing grantees, often in Arabic and/or French.
  • Monitor the implementation of NED-approved projects and evaluate the effectiveness and the institutional growth of NED grantees by analyzing grantee reports and products, providing feedback on implemented activities, maintaining continuous communication over the grant cycle, and conducting regular field visits.
  • Help organize events to highlight specific democracy-related issues in coordination with the other MENA team members.
  • Travel to the region as needed, and occasionally under difficult conditions, to monitor existing grantees, identify new funding opportunities, and gain on-the-ground perspective on the political situation.
  • Monitor political developments in the region relevant to the portfolio to inform NED strategies and programming, including reading various US- and regional-based publications, meeting with political analysts and other contacts, keeping abreast of the changing political environment, and actively coordinating with other MENA team members.
  • Build and maintain relationships with like-minded organizations, including other donors, NED partners, and regional organizations.
  • Liaise with other NED teams and participate in various working groups and other efforts to improve NED's overall functioning and effectiveness.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in International Affairs, Political Science, International Development, Middle East and North Africa studies, or a related discipline required; Master's Degree preferred.
  • 2 - 4 years of relevant professional experience in democracy support, human rights, civil society, or a related field, including experience living and/or working in the Middle East and North Africa.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills in both English and Arabic are required. Additionally, French language proficiency is preferred.
  • Proficiency with MS Office is required.
  • Field experience with NGOs in one or more MENA countries is preferred.
  • Knowledge of political issues and trends in the MENA region, particularly North Africa.
  • Ability to travel to the MENA region, particularly North African countries as needed.
  • High degree of organization and initiative.
  • Experience in grant-making and democratic development is desirable.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work as a team player, including coordination and facilitation skills.
  • Must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. NED is unable to sponsor or transfer employment visa sponsorship at this time.

Talent in Action

  • Purpose-Driven
  • Reliable
  • Expertise
  • Respectful Collaboration
  • Curiosity
  • Results-Oriented
  • An Optimistic Mindset

NED Total Compensation

The anticipated compensation range for this position is USD 51,750–80,250. The salary for this position is determined based on a wide variety of factors, including but not limited to an individual's professional experience, qualifications, education, and other business needs along with internal equity considerations. Employees are not typically hired at the top of the range for their role, and compensation decisions are based on the aforementioned circumstances. NED also offers a generous benefits package that demonstrates its commitment to employee health and well-being.