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Program Operations Assistant Jobs in Chicago, IL

Associate Manager, Program Operations Location: Chicago, IL Ready to make a difference? The ... Field requests from subcontractors. * Assist with monthly data verification. * Coordinate regularly ...

Operational Assistant

Crown Point, IN ยท On-site

$17.50 - $24.50/hr

OPERATIONAL ASSISTANT FULL-TIME - CROWN POINT LOCATION Position Summary The Operational Assistant ... Comprehensive Benefits Program (Not all inclusive) * Medical, dental and vision coverage * Heal ...

OPERATIONAL ASSISTANT FULL-TIME - CROWN POINT LOCATION Position Summary The Operational Assistant ... Comprehensive Benefits Program (Not all inclusive) * Medical, dental and vision coverage * Heal ...

People Operations Asst Analyst

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

$60.60K - $94.45K/yr

Overview The People Operations Assist Analyst will be a part of the North America (NA) Employee ... Program (EAP), Insurance (Accident, Group Legal, Life), Defined Contribution Retirement Plan.

Chick Evans Golf Course is seeking a part-time Assistant Golf Professional! Qualified candidates ... Employee Assistance Program Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all ...

People Operations Asst Analyst

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

$60.60K - $94.45K/yr

Overview The People Operations Assist Analyst will be a part of the North America (NA) Employee ... Program (EAP), Insurance (Accident, Group Legal, Life), Defined Contribution Retirement Plan.

Assistant Program Director

Chicago, IL ยท Hybrid

$75K - $85K/yr

This position is responsible for supporting fiscal oversight, operational planning, and data-informed decision making to enhance program impact. Additionally, the Assistant Program Director ensures ...

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Program Operations Assistant information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$20

$31

How much do program operations assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for program operations assistant in Chicago, IL is $20.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $23.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Program Operations Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience in administrative support, typically supported by a high school diploma or associate degree. Familiarity with office productivity software (such as Microsoft Office Suite), scheduling systems, and database management is commonly required. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability are vital soft skills for coordinating tasks and supporting team objectives. These skills ensure efficient program execution, smooth workflow, and effective collaboration within the organization.

What are some common challenges faced by Program Operations Assistants, and how can they be successfully managed?

Program Operations Assistants often juggle multiple tasks simultaneously, such as managing schedules, coordinating events, and handling communications between departments. One common challenge is adapting to shifting priorities and tight deadlines, which requires strong organizational and time-management skills. Successful assistants develop proactive communication habits and reliable tracking systems to ensure nothing falls through the cracks. Building good relationships with team members and being resourceful when solving problems also help manage the dynamic nature of the role.

What are Program Operations Assistants?

Program Operations Assistants are administrative professionals who support the daily operations of programs within an organization. Their duties include managing schedules, coordinating meetings, maintaining records, preparing reports, and assisting with event planning. They serve as a vital link between program managers, staff, and participants, ensuring that program activities run smoothly and efficiently. Program Operations Assistants often handle communications, process paperwork, and provide general support to help achieve program goals.

What is the difference between Program Operations Assistant vs Program Coordinator?

AspectProgram Operations AssistantProgram Coordinator
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require additional certificationsBachelor's degree often preferred; relevant certifications can be beneficial
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, program sites, or remote work; supporting daily operationsOffice or field settings; overseeing program implementation and coordination
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, government agencies, educational institutionsNonprofits, government, healthcare, and educational sectors
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level operational roles in programsManaging and coordinating program activities and teams

The Program Operations Assistant typically handles daily operational support tasks, focusing on administrative and logistical functions. In contrast, the Program Coordinator often takes on a broader role in overseeing program activities, coordinating teams, and ensuring program goals are met. Both roles are essential in program management but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Program Operations jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Program Operations jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Program Operations Assistant jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Program Operations Assistant job openings:
Associate Manager, Program Operations

Associate Manager, Program Operations

ICF

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Business Title: Associate Manager, Program Operations
Location: Chicago, IL

Ready to make a difference?
The Associate Manager, Program Operations is a leadership role within ICF's Energy Efficiency Division, responsible for managing program operations across Illinois for the multiple utility portfolios. This position works with a cross-functional team, including program management, outreach, technical, and marketing personnel, and plays a central role in project delivery, strategy development, and market expansion. They will oversee a team of direct reports (primarily Operation Specialists) and work closely with regional leadership to ensure consistent, high-quality client delivery. This role supports the development of a holistic strategy across multiple portfolios, optimizes staffing based on workload fluctuations, and establishes best practices for core programmatic functions such as performance tracking, project reviews, and client deliverables.

They will work with the regional operations manager, client portfolio leads, residential and commercial Program Managers, and the broader regional team to develop and deliver a holistic strategy and consistent client delivery. The role will also coordinate across multiple large portfolios, leverage regional staff based on fluctuating workloads, and develop best practices for programmatic functions such as project reviews, performance tracking, client deliverables, and project startup activities.

Why you will love working here:

  • Quality of life: Flexible workplace arrangements, work-life balance, employee wellbeing programs
  • Investment in the community: Donation matching, volunteer opportunities
  • Investment in you: Education Reimbursement, Retirement Planning, 401k matching, Mentorship Programs, Free access to professional development resources such LinkedIn Learning
  • Any many, many more *Ask your recruiter for more details!

What you would be doing:

  • Direct the quality and performance of the team responsible for the following tasks:
  • Timely and accurate project reviews.
  • Coordination of regular program-level deliverables (weekly reports, forecasting, etc.), working with project managers to add qualitative information and portfolio lead for final quality review
  • Compile/verify forecasts reports
  • Track contractual Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and coordinate with portfolio manager on any necessary corrective action plans
  • Support internal and external team meetings by prepping and pulling quantitative data, coordinating with project managers on qualitative inputs, coordinating with portfolio lead on agenda, hosting meeting, and documenting action items
  • Coordination with rebate processing team to ensure all incentives are processed. Ensure timely customer and subcontractor payments.
  • Generate accurate and polished deliverables for all regulatory filings, reports, and presentations.
  • Coordinate with portfolio manager for final inputs and approvals.
  • Maintain and update shared files, resources and program documents to ensure all program staff has access to latest versions of materials.
  • Coordinate with program managers to develop and maintain portfolio-level performance forecasts and trend analysis.
  • Maintain business workflow documents and keep process guides updated.
  • Draft/compile program awards for clients. Coordinate with marketing to oversee accurate program promotions and information.
  • Manage operations for the implementation of the Illinois portfolio(s), responsible for the following tasks:
  • Ensure that the programs are performing as expected and explain forecasted variances.
  • Collaborate with program managers to ensure all activities related to quality program delivery are executed.
  • Present performance metrics to internal and external stakeholders.
  • Review and approve large projects in a timely manner and with high attention to detail.
  • IT/reporting coordination, assisting with JIRA ticketing when necessary.
  • Field requests from subcontractors.
  • Assist with monthly data verification.
  • Coordinate regularly with internal team members (such as engineers and energy analysts) to ensure standard operating procedures are followed.
  • Conduct final desk reviews/approvals of projects over a certain incentive threshold.
  • Manage bandwidth of team and adjust staffing strategies as needed.

Skills you'll be using:

  • Leading and supporting teams to deliver highquality energy efficiency programs
  • Managing program performance, reporting, and quality reviews across multiple projects
  • Analyzing data and trends to inform forecasts, decisions, and client updates (strong Excel skills)
  • Communicating effectively with internal teams, utility clients, and external partners
  • Improving processes, workflows, and documentation to drive consistency and efficiency
  • Managing projects with strong attention to detail, timelines, and deliverables
  • Handling staffing, performance, and coaching needs to support a positive team environment
  • Working with integrity and professionalism, including responsible handling of confidential information

What we need you to have (minimum qualifications):

  • Bachelor's degree (or applicants can substitute one year of related experience for one year of education)
  • 3+ years experience supporting or managing utility energy efficiency or demandside management programs and/or related experience

Preferred Qualifications (what we would like you to have):

  • Knowledge of the utility market (specifically energy efficiency, demand response, and distributed energy resource programs and markets)
  • Certifications related to operational excellence (PMP, Six Sigma, etc.) and/or industry specific certificates (LEED, BPI, RESNET, etc.)
  • Project management experience
  • Experience with Power BI (or similar data visualization tool)

Working at ICF

ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we're not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.

We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer.Together, our employees are empowered to share theirexpertiseand collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read ourEEOpolicy.

We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals withsincerely heldreligious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To requestan accommodation,please emailCandidateaccommodation@icf.comand we will be happy toassist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extentrequiredto provide needed reasonable accommodations.

Read more aboutworkplacediscriminationrightsor our benefit offerings which are included in theTransparency in (Benefits) CoverageAct.

Candidate AI Usage Policy

At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate orassistwith responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is notpermitted. This policy is in place tomaintainthe integrity and authenticity of the interview process.

However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodationthat involves the use of AI. Ifsuch anaccommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance atcandidateaccommodation@icf.com. Weare dedicated to providingthe necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.


Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.

The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:

$81,499.00 - $138,549.00Illinois Remote Office (IL99)