1

Program Analyst Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

PROGRAM ANALYST

IL ยท On-site +1

$109K - $141K/yr

To serve as a MAJCOM headquarters level senior program analyst, responsible for planning, organizing, and determining necessary policies, regulations, directives, programs, doctrine, and procedures ...

Program Analyst

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$131K/yr

To qualify for this position of Program Analyst you must meet the qualification requirements listed below by the closing of this announcement: For GS-14: Specialized Experience: Your resume must ...

$85 - $100/hr

SUMMARY Provide lessons learned analyses and liaison support at designated Marine Corps commands in support of the Marine Corps Lessons Learned Program (MCLLP). ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Program Analyst

Quincy, IL ยท On-site

$106K/yr

Experience analyzing project and operational data to identify problem areas, trends, deficiencies, resource requirements, and factors affecting the accomplishment of program or project objectives.

next page

Showing results 1-20

Program Analyst information

See Illinois salary details

$35.9K

$86.4K

$127.4K

How much do program analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for program analyst in Illinois is $86,392.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,900.00 and $112,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a program analyst?

A program analyst is capable of both programming computer languages and analyzing how computer systems work. In this career, you combine these two skills to design and program computer systems that meet the needs of the customers. Your job duties include gathering system requirements, analyzing system functionality, writing programs, and testing the functionality of the software modules. Numerous private sectors and government agencies have program analysts on staff.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a program analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Program Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, project management knowledge, and typically a bachelor's degree in business, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools such as Microsoft Excel, SQL, and project management software like MS Project or Jira is commonly required. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail help Program Analysts collaborate effectively and deliver actionable insights. These skills and qualities are vital for evaluating programs, optimizing processes, and supporting organizational decision-making.

How does a program analyst typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives?

Program Analysts frequently work alongside project managers, subject matter experts, and stakeholders from various departments to gather and analyze data, track progress, and recommend process improvements. They serve as a bridge between technical teams and business units, ensuring that program goals are clearly communicated and aligned with organizational priorities. Effective collaboration often involves attending regular meetings, preparing reports, and facilitating discussions to resolve issues and keep projects on track. This teamwork-oriented environment helps Program Analysts develop strong communication and problem-solving skills, which are vital for career advancement.

What is the difference between Program Analyst vs Budget Analyst?

AspectProgram AnalystBudget Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in public administration, business, or related field; often certifications like CAP or PMPBachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or related; certifications like CGFM or CPA are common
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, nonprofits, or large corporations; focus on program evaluation and improvementGovernment agencies, corporate finance departments; focus on budget planning and monitoring
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in federal, state, and local government, as well as private sectorPrimarily in government and large organizations managing budgets

Program Analysts and Budget Analysts often work in government or large organizations, but their focus differs. Program Analysts evaluate and improve programs, while Budget Analysts manage financial plans. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, making them closely related career paths.

How much do program analysts make in the US?

Program analysts in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced analysts or those with specialized skills can earn over $100,000 annually.

Is IT hard to become a program analyst?

Becoming a program analyst typically requires a bachelor's degree in a related field such as business, management, or information technology, along with strong analytical and communication skills. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and obtaining certifications like the Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) can also improve job prospects. The difficulty varies depending on individual background and the specific employer's requirements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Program Analyst jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Program Analyst jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Program Analyst jobs in Illinois?

For Program Analyst jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Program Analyst jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Program Analyst job openings:

Infographic showing various Program Analyst job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,392 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

PROGRAM ANALYST

Air Mobility Command

IL โ€ข On-site, Remote

$109K - $141K/yr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired 2 days ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Summary
Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
Help
The primary purpose of this position is: To serve as a MAJCOM headquarters level senior program analyst, responsible for planning, organizing, and determining necessary policies, regulations, directives, programs, doctrine, and procedures for the establishment and maintenance of certain assigned major command program(s).
Duties:
  • Analyzes, develops, and evaluates detailed plans, goals, and objectives for long-range implementation of assigned major command program(s).
  • Documents planning and programming decisions in appropriate formats to meet Major Command requirements.
  • Actively participates in strategic planning to improve organizational direction and focus using strategic planning tools and techniques.
  • Prepares and delivers oral presentations such as briefings, training sessions, consultations, and strategy sessions with other staff service functions and activities to secure cooperation, resolve controversial matters, and convey information relative to proposed changes in assigned program(s).

Requirements
Help
Conditions of employment
  • U.S. Citizenship Required
  • Males must be registered for Selective Service, see www.sss.gov
  • If authorized, PCS will be paid IAW JTR and AF Regulations. If receiving an authorized PCS, you may be subject to completing/signing a CONUS agreement. More information on PCS requirements, may be found at: https://afciviliancareers.com/regulatory/
  • This position is subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program
  • Disclosure of Political Appointments
  • Advance in hire may be authorized if there is demonstrable proof provided on your resume
  • Leave accrual may be authorized upon request
  • Depending on the type of position (competitive/excepted) you are selected for, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period OR 2-year trial period.
  • Upon completion of your probationary/trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
  • May travel by military or commercial air to conferences, meetings, or other functions away from the duty site.
  • Rated military aviator experience meeting the definition in AFI 11-402 (Aviation and Parachutist Service, Aeronautical Ratings and Aviation Badges) and AFI 11-412 (Flying Operations-Aircrew Management) is highly desired.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a SECRET security clearance.

Qualifications
Conditions of Employment:
  • Experience in contingency response operations is desired. Functional Area Manager experience is preferred. Experience in emergency management, or related fields within the DoD or other federal agencies may be considered in lieu of contingency response operational experience.

In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Administrative and Management Positions- Management and Program Analysis (0343).
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-12, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes Expert knowledge of a wide range of qualitative and quantitative methods for the assessment and improvement of critical command plans and programs for participating in or conducting major operations such as mission and flight operations, tactical airlift, tactical training, rescue, deployment, mobilization, PPBS, acquisition, special operations, exercise, flying training systems both manned and unmanned, rescue, foreign military sales, contingency, or similar operations. Knowledge of military command structure, missions, programs, and organizational relationships and program goals and objectives, the sequence and timing of key operational events and milestones, and methods of evaluating the effectiveness of planning actions as related to actual events. Expert knowledge of pertinent laws, regulations, policies, precedents, budget and mission priorities, and related support resources which affect the manpower program and the functions under study. Expert knowledge of the major issues, program goals and objectives, work processes, and administrative operations of AF organizations.
FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year at the GS-12 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-13 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks. NOTE: Applicants applying as VEOA candidates who are current GS civil service employees or are prior GS civil service employees within the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
  1. Knowledge of a wide range of qualitative and/or quantitative methods for the assessment and improvement of command level plans and programs for conducting major operations.
  2. Knowledge of methods of evaluating the effectiveness of planning actions related to actual events; and the relationship of the various command entities involved in overall program planning and execution of military operations and evaluations.
  3. Skill in designing and conducting comprehensive studies; and preparing solutions to especially broad, important, and severe military operational and contingency areas.
  4. Ability to plan, organize, and lead others in studies or projects and to negotiate effectively with management to accept and implement recommendations, where proposals involve substantial resources, and require extensive changes in established concepts and procedures.
  5. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; negotiate complex issues; and maintain good working relationships.

PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP): For information on how to apply as an ICTAP eligible click here. To be well-qualified and exercise selection priority for this vacancy, displaced Federal employees must be rated well qualified or above for this position. You must submit a copy of the agency notice, your most recent performance rating, and your most recent SF-50 noting position, grade level, and duty location.
Employed Annuitants (Reemployed Annuitants): Applicants in receipt of an annuity based on civilian employment in the Federal Service are subject to the DoD Policy on The Employment of Annuitants. Click here for more information.
Current Federal Civilian employees may apply for temporary and term positions and if selected, a break in service may be required prior to appointment to the position.
Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible: MSP applicants, if determined best qualified, must be selected and placed at the highest grade for which they applied. You must include a completed copy of the DD Form 3145-4, Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility for MSP. Click here to obtain/download a copy of the DD Form 3145-4, Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist.
Priority Placement Program (PPP) Applicant Eligible: PPP Applicants, if determined well qualified and selected, will be placed at the at the full performance level. You must include the applicable completed copy of the PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility as a PPP Applicant. Click here to obtain/download a copy of the applicable PPP Self-Certification Checklist (DD3145-1 through DD3145-4, select the appropriate checklist for your claimed preference). To determine the applicable PPP Self-Certification Checklist required to substantiate the eligibilities you are claiming, refer to the AF Civilian Employment Eligibility Guide located in the Required Documents section of this vacancy announcement.
Direct Deposit: All federal employees are required to have direct deposit.
Disabled veteran leave is available to a Federal employee hired on/after 5 Nov 2016, who is a veteran with a service-connected disability rating of 30% or more. For more information, click here.
If you have questions regarding this announcement and have hearing or speech difficulties click here.
Expand Hide additional information
Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
Help
A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.