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How much do program operations assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for program operations assistant in the United States is $19.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an operations assistant do?

An operations assistant supports the daily functions of an organization by handling administrative tasks, coordinating schedules, managing communication, and assisting with project logistics. They often use tools like spreadsheets and office software and may need strong organizational and communication skills to ensure smooth operations.

What is the role of an operations assistant?

A Program Operations Assistant supports the daily functions of a program or organization by managing administrative tasks, coordinating schedules, and ensuring smooth operations. They often use tools like spreadsheets and project management software and may assist with data entry, communication, and logistical support to help programs run efficiently.

What is the salary of an operations assistant?

The salary of a Program Operations Assistant typically ranges from $35,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and organization size. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those in larger organizations can earn higher wages. Benefits and opportunities for advancement are often included in compensation packages.

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 a program assistant job description?

A program assistant supports the planning, coordination, and execution of organizational programs by handling administrative tasks, scheduling, and communication. They often use tools like spreadsheets and databases, and may require strong organizational and communication skills to ensure program goals are met efficiently.

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 cities are hiring for Program Operations Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Program Operations Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Program Operations jobs? The most popular types of Program Operations jobs are:
What states have the most Program Operations Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Program Operations Assistant jobs include:
Program Operations Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Program Operations Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,222 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Program Operations Specialist

Program Operations Specialist

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 59 rated research

Job description

Description
Do you enjoy working on challenging projects?
Are you skilled in customer service, problem solving and have a high attention to detail?
Do you desire participating on groundbreaking projects?
We are seeking a Program Operations Specialist to support the Force Projection Sector's (FPS) varied portfolio of projects. You will join a dedicated team of business professionals that provides operational leadership and project coordination across all phases of the project lifecycle. In this role, you will partner closely with program leadership, technical staff, and support organizations to ensure projects are executed efficiently, sponsor requirements are met, and operational activities remain aligned with program objectives.
As a Program Operations Specialist, you will:
Program and Project Operations -
  • Partner with Program Managers (PMs) and Project Managers (PjMs) to ensure seamless program operations, establish priorities, mitigate operational risks, drive timely delivery of contractual obligations, and oversee day-to-day project execution from initiation through closeout.
  • Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) that promote consistency, efficiency, and successful project delivery.
  • Monitor and provide oversight and coordination of operational compliance efforts.

Program and Project Administration -
  • Develop a thorough understanding of program objectives, technical efforts, and sponsor priorities to effectively support program execution and communicate program activities to internal and external stakeholders.
  • Prepare and organize information for internal and external program reviews, technical exchanges, and sponsor engagements, including content review of technical materials prepared by technical staff.
  • Serve as a key liaison among program leadership, technical staff, sponsors, and stakeholders to facilitate communication, track actions, and drive successful outcomes.

Logistics, Collaboration, and Operational Leadership -
  • Collaborate with APL support organizations, including security, IT, quality, communications, procurement, property, and administrative services, to secure resources, coordinate logistics, and resolve operational issues that impact project execution.
  • Lead coordination of meetings, reviews, facilities, security, schedules, and other program activities to ensure milestones and commitments are achieved.

Contractual Deliverables and Performance Management -
  • Manage contractual and programmatic deliverables by tracking schedules, milestones, and stakeholder inputs to ensure commitments are met.
  • Help identify potential execution risks and recommend corrective actions to maintain schedule, quality, and sponsor satisfaction.

Technical Support and Reporting -
  • Develop sufficient understanding of program technical efforts to effectively communicate objectives, impacts, and accomplishments to multiple audiences.
  • Support project kickoff activities, task planning, Statements of Work (SOWs), execution reviews, and operational reporting to ensure alignment with sponsor requirements and project objectives.

Proposal Development
  • Collaborate with PMs and FMs to support proposal development activities, facilitate technical information flow, assist with review processes, and help ensure proposal quality and compliance with customer requirements.

Additional Responsibilities - perform other duties as assigned in support of program, sector, and organizational objectives.
Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications if you...
  • Have a Bachelor 's Degree in a business, technical, or other relevant field.
  • Have 3+ years of relevant experience coordinating project operations.
  • Proven ability to review and organize technical information and provide a critical review of documents for technical content and style while also being able to create presentations from existing material for high-level briefings.
  • Possess strong communication skills with demonstrated experience in effectively communicating with all levels of management, military and government officials.
  • Proven ability to be a self-starter with a high level of initiative and can effectively prioritize competing efforts and independently solve moderately complex problems.
  • Are willing to travel occasionally and work in a closed area as needed.
  • Hold an active Secret security clearance and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You 'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you have...
  • An Active TS/SCI security clearance.
  • A demonstrated proficiency in tracking, monitoring and updating program schedules, milestones and/or contract deliverables.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$62,900 Annually
Maximum Rate
$180,300 Annually

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