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Chief Program Officer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

The Program Officer will liaise with all departments in HQ to provide backstop support to field ... Along with the Senior Program Manager, serve as a primary interface with the Chief of Party (COP ...

The Program Officer will liaise with all departments in HQ to provide backstop support to field ... Along with the Senior Program Manager, serve as a primary interface with the Chief of Party (COP ...

DARPA Junior Action Officer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120 - $140K/hr

The Action Officer will provide direct, high-level support to a DARPA Program Director managing a portfolio of exceptionally high-dollar, high-visibility research and development programs. This role ...

The Action Officer will provide direct, high-level support to a DARPA Program Director managing a portfolio of exceptionally high-dollar, high-visibility research and development programs. This role ...

Program Assistant

Washington, DC

$42K - $53K/yr

... Chief Administrative Officer, Global Corporate Solutions (GCS) brings together the functions of ... The Program Assistant will also work closely with the Senior Program Officer in the Front Office ...

Program Assistant

Washington, DC

$42K - $53K/yr

... Chief Administrative Officer, Global Corporate Solutions (GCS) brings together the functions of ... The Program Assistant will also work closely with the Senior Program Officer in the Front Office ...

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Showing results 1-20

Chief Program Officer information

See Washington salary details

$41.9K

$150.2K

$226.5K

How much do chief program officer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief program officer in Washington is $150,181.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $113,300.00 and $176,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Chief Program Officers?

Chief Program Officers (CPOs) are senior executives responsible for overseeing and guiding the development, implementation, and evaluation of an organization's programs and initiatives. They ensure that all program activities align with the organization's mission, goals, and strategic priorities. CPOs often manage program staff, coordinate across departments, and report outcomes to executive leadership and stakeholders. Their work is crucial in ensuring programs are effective, efficient, and produce meaningful impact.

What Is the Role of a Chief Program Officer?

The role of the chief program officer (CPO) is to develop, implement, and oversee a non profit organization’s programming, such as designing outreach programs or job training courses for the homeless. You consult with the executive director, CEO, and other executive managers at an organization to improve the existing programming and services and plan or coordinate new programs. Other duties and responsibilities are to manage program implementation and funding, provide leadership to program coordinators, volunteers, and other staff, solicit feedback, and analyze the effectiveness of programs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chief Program Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Program Officer, you need expertise in program management, strategic planning, and organizational leadership, often supported by an advanced degree in business, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with project management software, data analytics tools, and outcome measurement systems is typical, along with knowledge of relevant compliance standards. Exceptional communication, stakeholder engagement, and problem-solving skills set outstanding leaders apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for aligning programs with organizational goals, ensuring effective execution, and driving impactful results.

How does a Chief Program Officer typically balance strategic oversight with hands-on program management in their daily work?

A Chief Program Officer (CPO) often navigates the challenge of overseeing organizational strategy while remaining engaged in the operational aspects of program delivery. This balance is achieved by setting clear goals, delegating day-to-day management to experienced program directors, and regularly reviewing performance metrics. CPOs also facilitate cross-departmental collaboration to ensure programs align with the organization's mission and strategic objectives. Effective communication and a strong leadership presence are essential, as CPOs serve as a bridge between executive leadership and program teams.
What cities in Washington are hiring for Chief Program Officer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Chief Program Officer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Chief Program Officer jobs in WA? For Chief Program Officer jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Chief Program Officer job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $150,181 per year, or $72.2 per hour.
Philanthropy Officer

$70K - $90K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Philanthropy Officer | Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) Location: Philadelphia, PA or Washington, DC (Hybrid) Salary Range: $70,000 – $90,000

FIRE has retained the recruiting firm Big Fish on this search. Please contact Leah Nalepa at leah@recruitbigfish.com with any questions regarding the role. Big Fish is a boutique recruiting firm specializing in the talent needed to drive policy change. Learn more at recruitbigfish.com.

About FIRE

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression's mission is to defend and sustain the individual rights of all Americans to free speech and free thought — the most essential qualities of liberty. FIRE educates Americans about the importance of these inalienable rights, promotes a culture of respect for these rights, and provides the means to preserve them.

About the Role

FIRE is seeking a Philanthropy Officer to cultivate and upgrade the giving of existing donors while also attracting new supporters across the country. This role reports directly to FIRE's Chief Development Officer and works closely with the broader development team, FIRE's President and CEO, and department heads across the organization.

This position requires significant travel — approximately 30–40% of the time — with occasional evenings and weekends expected. Start date is ASAP.

Key Responsibilities

  • Manage an active portfolio of current donors, personally directing cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship through events, travel, and regular communication
  • Identify and research prospective donors and develop strategies to cultivate and solicit their support, including letters of introduction, personal meetings, and formal asks
  • Produce regular reports, maintain donor records, and track performance metrics across the portfolio
  • Collaborate with development and program staff to create proposals, slide decks, email solicitations, and newsletter content
  • Help plan and execute approximately six donor events per year in cities across the country

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree required
  • 2–5 years of development experience, preferably with direct major gifts solicitation; candidates with relevant backgrounds in law, policy, or advocacy are also encouraged to apply
  • Genuine passion for FIRE's mission and ability to communicate it persuasively
  • Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills
  • Goal-oriented with the confidence to make a direct ask
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Willingness to travel frequently
  • Working knowledge of donor prospecting methods and platforms like Salesforce a plus

Compensation & Benefits

Salary range is $70,000–$90,000 depending on experience. FIRE offers employer-paid health, dental, and life insurance; FSA; matching retirement contributions; and a generous PTO plan.

To Apply

Submit a resume, cover letter, writing sample, salary requirements, and contact information for at least two professional references. All applications are confidential. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.