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Program Support Specialist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

XLA is looking for a Program Support Specialist to support a federal agency in Arlington, VA. This position requires the candidate to be eligible to obtain a U.S. secret security clearance and is ...

The Program Support Specialist will play a critical role in assisting with the day-to-day operations of the Pride Pantry, Transportation, Mental Health Program, and Housing Programs at LGBT Life ...

Alluvionic is currently seeking experienced applicants for a Program Support Specialist position to support the National Science Foundation (NSF), Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships (TIP ...

Alluvionic is currently seeking experienced applicants for a Program Support Specialist position to support the National Science Foundation (NSF), Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships (TIP ...

AnaVation is seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Program Support Specialist to provide administrative and operational support located at Fort Belvoir, VA. The ideal candidate will be a versatile ...

Pherson is seeking a Program Support Specialist Mid to support the administration of foreign language testing programs, including scheduling, proctoring exams, and maintaining accurate records. This ...

Pherson is seeking a Program Support Specialist - Mid to support the administration of foreign language testing programs, including scheduling, proctoring exams, and maintaining accurate records.

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Showing results 1-20

Program Support Specialist information

See Virginia salary details

$26.8K

$67.4K

$120.5K

How much do program support specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for program support specialist in Virginia is $67,429.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,100.00 and $85,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Program Support Specialist Do?

A program support specialist assists the program director with administrative tasks. As a program support specialist, your job duties may include typing up documents, sending emails, answering phones, and organizing paperwork. You find program support specialists in many different industries. There are no formal education requirements to become a program support specialist, but employers may prefer candidates with experience in clerical positions.

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

To thrive as a Program Support Specialist, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in administrative tasks, often supported by an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with project management software, Microsoft Office Suite, and database systems is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to multitask help someone stand out in this position. These skills are crucial for efficiently supporting programs, ensuring smooth operations, and enabling teams to meet their objectives.

What is the difference between Program Support Specialist vs Program Coordinator?

AspectProgram Support SpecialistProgram Coordinator
Required CredentialsTypically an associate's or bachelor's degree; certifications like CAP or PMP are commonUsually a bachelor's degree; certifications like CAP or PMP may be preferred
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, government agencies, nonprofit organizationsOffice environments, community programs, nonprofit and government sectors
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across government, nonprofit, and educational sectors for administrative support rolesCommonly found in similar sectors, focusing on program implementation and coordination
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare for administrative and support roles within programsPeople compare for roles involving program planning and management

The main difference is that Program Support Specialists focus on administrative and logistical support tasks, while Program Coordinators are more involved in planning, executing, and overseeing program activities. Both roles often require similar credentials and work in similar environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are Program Support Specialists?

Program Support Specialists are professionals who provide administrative and operational support to programs within organizations. They assist with tasks such as scheduling, data entry, record-keeping, communication with stakeholders, and coordinating program activities. Their role is essential for ensuring that programs run smoothly and efficiently, often acting as a bridge between management, staff, and participants. Program Support Specialists may work in various sectors, including education, healthcare, government, and nonprofit organizations.

What are some common challenges faced by Program Support Specialists and how can they be addressed?

Program Support Specialists often juggle multiple tasks and deadlines, such as coordinating schedules, managing documentation, and supporting communication across teams. A common challenge is balancing these responsibilities while ensuring accuracy and timely delivery. To address this, strong organizational skills, effective time management, and proactive communication are essential. Utilizing project management tools and regularly checking in with team members can also help streamline workflows and reduce the risk of overlooked tasks.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Program Support Specialist jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Program Support Specialist job openings:
Infographic showing various Program Support Specialist job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,429 per year, or $32.4 per hour.
Program Support Specialist

Program Support Specialist

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA • Hybrid

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

204th of 555 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Program Support Specialist

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536892
Work type: Staff
Senior management: College of Business
Department: Finance, Insurance & Business Law
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Administrative / Clerical, Other

Job Description

The Department of Finance, Insurance, and Business Law in the Pamplin College of Business is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Program Support Specialist to support the department's faculty, staff, students, and daily operations.
This position supports departmental faculty members by preparing highly technical and complex course materials, correspondence, and committee-related assignments. Program support includes conveying information related to departmental and university policies and procedures while working collaboratively with the Lead Administrative Manager, faculty, and office staff to perform the ongoing administrative and operational activities of the department.
General support responsibilities include coordinating departmental faculty activities; creating spreadsheets; performing data entry; drafting, proofreading, and editing documents; assisting with committee activities; and providing support for additional departmental initiatives as assigned. The position is also responsible for maintaining the department website and social media platforms, performing assigned fiscal tasks, and providing backup support for other departmental positions as directed by the Lead Administrative Manager.
The Program Support Specialist serves as an important point of coordination across faculty, staff, students, and university partners, contributing to the efficient operation of the department while supporting its teaching, research, and outreach mission. The successful candidate will be an adaptable professional with strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills who is able to manage multiple priorities in a collaborative environment.
Work Location & Flexibility:
To ensure comprehensive training and integration into the department and college, the Program Support Specialist will be fully on-site for the first twelve months. After this period, the role may transition to a hybrid schedule with up to one day of telework per week, subject to departmental needs.

Required Qualifications

Demonstrated experience providing administrative support in an academic, higher education, or professional office environment.
Demonstrated proficiency using Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, Outlook, and other standard office technology.
Experience preparing, editing, and proofreading professional correspondence, reports, or other business documents with a high degree of accuracy.
Experience managing multiple priorities, maintaining confidential information, and supporting a variety of administrative functions in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience supporting faculty, academic programs, or departmental operations within a college or university environment.
Experience using university administrative systems such as Banner, HokieMart, Emburse, CashNet, or similar enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
Knowledge of university policies, procedures, and administrative processes related to higher education operations.
Experience maintaining department websites, social media platforms, or other communication tools to support departmental outreach and engagement.

Pay Band

3

Overtime Status

Non-Exempt: Eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

Hours per week

40

Review Date

7/27/2026; open until filled

Additional Information

Join the Department of Finance, Insurance, and Business Law in the Pamplin College of Business as a Program Support Specialist, where you'll play a vital role in supporting faculty, students, and departmental operations. This dynamic position offers the opportunity to coordinate communications, support academic programs and events, maintain the department's digital presence, and contribute to a collaborative, service-oriented team. If you're an organized, detail-oriented professional who enjoys variety and making an impact in higher education, we'd love to hear from you.

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Samantha Gagnet at sgagnet@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: July 14, 2026
Applications close:

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About Virginia Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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