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Sr Program Specialist Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Program Manager

Chantilly, VA

$118K - $119K/yr

The Senior Program Manager (SPM) is responsible for overseeing a team of event managers, event planners, logistics specialists, and other team members. This team is responsible for the planning ...

Senior Program Manager

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$147K - $199K/yr

As a Sr. Program Manager supporting the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Office of Information ... testers, infrastructure specialists, and other stakeholders. * Experience analyzing complex ...

Program Specialist

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$85K - $111K/yr

The incumbent is responsible for coordinating the fellowship program, working closely with senior scholars, academics, graduate students, visiting faculty and museum professionals throughout the ...

Program Specialist

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$85K - $111K/yr

The incumbent is responsible for coordinating the fellowship program, working closely with senior scholars, academics, graduate students, visiting faculty and museum professionals throughout the ...

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Showing results 1-20

Sr Program Specialist information

See Reston, VA salary details

$31.7K

$69.8K

$118.6K

How much do sr program specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr program specialist in Reston, VA is $69,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $82,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Sr Program Specialist?

Sr Program Specialists are experienced professionals who oversee and coordinate specific programs within an organization. They are responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating projects, managing resources, and ensuring that program goals are met on time and within budget. Sr Program Specialists often collaborate with cross-functional teams, provide guidance to junior staff, and report on program progress to senior management. Their work helps organizations achieve strategic objectives efficiently and effectively.

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

AspectSr Program SpecialistProgram Coordinator
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, relevant certifications, experience in program managementBachelor's degree often preferred, some certifications beneficial
Work EnvironmentCorporate, nonprofit, government sectors managing complex programsSupportive roles in similar sectors, assisting with program execution
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in organizations with structured program management teamsCommon in organizations coordinating multiple projects or programs
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing senior roles with more responsibilitiesIndividuals seeking entry to mid-level program roles

The main difference between a Sr Program Specialist and a Program Coordinator lies in experience, responsibilities, and scope. The Sr Program Specialist typically handles complex projects, strategic planning, and has more autonomy, while the Program Coordinator supports daily operations and assists in executing programs. Both roles are vital in program management but differ in seniority and complexity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Sr Program Specialist?

To thrive as a Sr Program Specialist, you need strong project management expertise, analytical abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree, often in business, public administration, or a related field. Familiarity with project management software like MS Project or Asana, and certifications such as PMP or Six Sigma are commonly valued. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills help you coordinate teams and manage complex initiatives effectively. These competencies ensure successful program delivery, stakeholder satisfaction, and the achievement of organizational objectives.

How does a Sr Program Specialist typically collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve project goals?

As a Sr Program Specialist, collaboration with cross-functional teams is a key aspect of the role. You’ll regularly coordinate with departments such as operations, finance, and marketing to align project milestones, share updates, and solve challenges that arise during program execution. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential, as you’ll often serve as the liaison ensuring everyone is on the same page and that deliverables are met on schedule. This collaborative work environment provides opportunities to build relationships across the organization and develop leadership skills as you guide teams toward shared objectives.
What are popular job titles related to Sr Program Specialist jobs in Reston, VA? For Sr Program Specialist jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sr Program Specialist jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Sr Program Specialist jobs in Reston, VA are:
Infographic showing various Sr Program Specialist job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,784 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Program Support Specialist II / Senior Program Specialist.

EDJ Associates,

Washington, DC • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Program Support Specialist II / Senior Program Specialist.
Department: Administration
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: National Science Foundation - Washington DC Area
Description
The Program Support Specialist will provide daily administrative and programmatic support to the National Science Foundation to facilitate the peer review process. The employees will work closely with their assigned NSF Program Director/s to identify technical and commercial experts to participate on scientific review panels and provide feedback on grant proposals. The Program Support Specialist will enter key data into NSF systems, create and manage all supporting documents for their assigned review panels, and assist the Program Director/s by reviewing proposal budgets and drafting the 'review analysis required to support the eventual NSF award or decline decision for each proposal. In addition to facilitating the peer review process, the Program Support Specialist will provide other administrative and technical services to the client upon request, including maintaining tracking spreadsheets and calendars, conducting data analysis, preparing reports and presentations, planning and supporting small and medium sized meetings, and corresponding with grantees and reviewers via email and telephone regarding all aspects of the review process and grants management.
Key Responsibilities
  • Assist NSF Program Directors with identifying and recruiting qualified peer reviewers using NSF databases and internet searches.
  • Perform data entry into NSF systems to support review process, and management of affiliated paperwork.
  • Communicate daily via phone and email with potential reviewers.
  • Draft and review all documents associated with assigned panels, including review analyses and screening reviewer comments.
  • Prepare materials and correspondence upon request, and review/suggest edits for key NSF documents and websites.
  • Review award budgets for compliance with program requirements.
  • Plan and support small and medium sized meetings to occur at NSF.
  • Perform data queries on NSF systems and update/maintain key tracking spreadsheets and calendars.
  • Prepare reports and presentations upon request.
  • Conduct compliance screening on incoming proposals.
  • Assist with individual administrative and data analysis projects as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Education: Bachelor's degree in engineering, Physical Sciences, Information Technology, Computer Science, or Education.
Experience: Three years' professional and/or administrative experience in office environment.
Skills/Knowledge: Excellent verbal and written communication skills; Proficient with use of Microsoft Office, especially Excel, Access and Outlook email and calendar functions. Experienced querying experience strongly preferred. Detail-oriented, problem-solver, professional, and courteous demeanor. Must be able to work as part of a team or independently as needed with little direction or supervision.
Other: Willingness to work as part of a close-knit and diverse team is essential. Outgoing and positive attitude about helping others is a must. Other related duties and tasks as assigned.
Management retains the discretion to add to or change the duties of the position at any time.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer