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$36.5K

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How much do special education program manager jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for special education program manager in the United States is $72,277.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,000.00 and $83,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Special Education Program Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Special Education Program Manager, you need expertise in special education practices, program development, and compliance with relevant laws, typically supported by a degree in education and administrative or special education certification. Familiarity with Individualized Education Program (IEP) systems, data management tools, and educational software is crucial. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and interpersonal communication skills set outstanding managers apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring legal compliance, effective program delivery, and positive outcomes for students with special needs.

What are some common challenges faced by Special Education Program Managers, and how can they effectively address them?

Special Education Program Managers often encounter challenges such as coordinating services across diverse student needs, ensuring compliance with evolving regulations, and managing limited resources. To address these, they prioritize strong communication with educators, families, and service providers, implement efficient documentation processes, and stay updated on best practices and legal requirements. Fostering a collaborative team environment and investing in ongoing professional development also help overcome obstacles and support student success.

What does a Special Education Program Manager do?

A Special Education Program Manager oversees the planning, implementation, and evaluation of special education programs within a school or district. They ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, coordinate services for students with disabilities, manage budgets, and supervise staff. Their role also involves collaborating with teachers, parents, and other stakeholders to support students' individualized education plans (IEPs) and promote an inclusive learning environment.

What is the difference between Special Education Program Manager vs Special Education Coordinator?

AspectSpecial Education Program ManagerSpecial Education Coordinator
CredentialsRequires a valid teaching certification and often a master's degree in education or special educationTypically holds a teaching certification and specialized training in special education
Work EnvironmentOversees multiple programs, manages staff, and develops policies within school districts or educational organizationsFocuses on implementing IEPs, supporting teachers, and coordinating services at the school or classroom level
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in school districts, educational agencies, and nonprofitsCommonly employed in schools, districts, and educational programs

While both roles involve supporting students with special needs, the Special Education Program Manager typically oversees broader programs and staff management, whereas the Special Education Coordinator focuses on direct implementation of services and classroom support.

More about Special Education Program Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Special Education Program Manager jobs? Cities with the most Special Education Program Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Special Education Program jobs? The most popular types of Special Education Program jobs are:
What states have the most Special Education Program Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Special Education Program Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Special Education Program Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Special Education Program Manager jobs are:
Special Education Program Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Special Education Program Manager job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,277 per year, or $34.7 per hour.

Education Specialist- Special Education Liaison

Region 17 Ed Service Center

Lubbock, TX • On-site

$81.75K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Job description

Position Type:
Special Student Programs
Date Posted:
2/26/2026
Location:
Region 17 Education Service Center
LOCATION: Region 17 ESC, Lubbock TX
LENGTH OF WORK YEAR: 240 days
POSITION SUMMARY: Support Local Education Agencies (LEAs) through the coordination of data analysis and implementation of targeted strategies that will have an immediate impact for serving students with disabilities. Assist LEAs in TEA's special education review and support initiatives, including Differentiated Monitoring and Support (DMS), Special Education Performance Diagnostics, and Results Driven Data (RDA). Serve as a liaison among local LEAs, ESC17, and the Texas Education Agency to identify statewide and region-specific high leverage and high impact opportunities in the area of special education. Provide additional support in related areas of Special Education as assigned.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION/LICENSE: Master's Degree in an education field required: Teaching certificate required
PREFERRED: Texas Mid-management/Principal and/or Superintendent certificate preferred; Special Education Certification
EXPERIENCE: Minimum of five years teaching experience in a public school setting with additional time in a leadership role; Background in special education programs as an educator, and/or administrator; Leading adults and/or working successfully on a team in leadership role; Program development and project management; Providing professional development; Effective written and verbal communication, collaboration, and learning from multiple sources paired with the ability to reflect strong leadership capacity
SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS: Knowledge of instructional processes used with struggling learners; Ability to analyze data and utilize input from a diverse group of stakeholders to determine programs, products, and services to meet the needs of LEAs; In-depth computer skills
DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Collaborate with the Student Support Services team on ESC and team programs/projects/goals.
2. Working primarily with LEA special education and campus leaders, increase the knowledge, skills, and motivation of LEA teams to analyze data relevant to students receiving special education services and supports; identify a problem; reflect critically on end-user input, root causes and potential solutions; create a plan for improvement that includes sustainability of progress; and maintain a cadence of internal accountability.
3. Working primarily with LEA special education and campus leaders, identify target LEA needs relevant to students receiving special education services and supports and connect them to supports and resources that effectively meet those needs.
4. Deliver or facilitate regional professional development and support to LEAs regarding special education monitoring procedures and expectations, including review preparation and post-review follow-up, in coordination with TEA's Department of Review & Support; and School, Family, Community Engagement (SFCE) initiative activities in coordination with ESC leads and TEA's SFCE program manager.
5. Attend all required Austin ESC Liaison weeks and participate in feedback loops and collaborative activities that connect policy and practice statewide.
REPORTS TO: Coordinator, Special Student Populations
MINIMUM SALARY: $81,750
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Open until filled

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