As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Program Specialist (Non-Profit) in the United States is $67,540 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $32.
However, a Program Specialist (Non-Profit)'s salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Program Specialist (Non-Profit)'s salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Program Specialist (Non-Profit)'s salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Profit Program Associate | 0-2 years | $49,351 |
| Program Specialist (Non-Profit) | 2-4 years | $67,540 |
| Program Senior Specialist (Non-Profit) | 4-7 years | $80,086 |
| Non-Profit Program Administration Manager I | 7+ years | $85,550 |
| Non-Profit Program Administration Manager II | 7+ years | $95,914 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Program Specialist (Non-Profit)s. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Coordination | 7.12% |
| Administrative Support | 2.12% |
| PowerPoint | 1.66% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Project Management
|
$72,268 |
7%
|
|
Program Management
|
$71,592 |
6%
|
|
Collaboration
|
$70,242 |
4%
|
|
Analysis
|
$70,242 |
4%
|
|
Logistics
|
$70,242 |
4%
|
|
Business Administration
|
$70,242 |
4%
|
Understanding how a Program Specialist (Non-Profit)'s annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Program Specialist (Non-Profit), you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Community Housing Program Manager | $50,100 | -26% |
| Volunteer Programs Supervisor | $71,500 | 6% |
| Program Senior Specialist (Non-Profit) | $80,090 | 19% |
| Program Manager of Community Social Services | $82,200 | 22% |
Salaries for a Program Specialist (Non-Profit) can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary increased from $56,293 in 2023 to around $56,519 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Program Specialist (Non-Profit) salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $56,293 |
| 2024 | $56,752 |
| 2025 | $56,519 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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Specialists typically earn higher salaries compared to general roles. For instance, a Program Specialist in the non-profit sector has a salary range from $60,710 to $80,540, with a mid-salary of $69,450. This reflects the trend where specialized positions often command better compensation due to their expertise and responsibilities.
The board governs a nonprofit, while the executive director, often referred to as the CEO, manages daily operations. This role is crucial as the executive director represents the organization's values and commitment. In terms of compensation, a Program Specialist in a non-profit typically earns between $60,710 and $80,540, with a mid-salary of $69,450.
A Program Specialist in the non-profit sector typically earns between $60,710 and $80,540 annually. The average salary is around $69,450 per year. These figures reflect the range of salaries based on industry data and provide a clear picture of compensation for this role.
A Program Specialist at Duke University typically earns between $60,710 and $80,540 annually, with a mid-range salary of about $69,450. This reflects the competitive compensation for such roles in the non-profit sector, aligning with industry standards.
The highest paying non-profit is Lutheran Services in America, which generated $23 billion in 2022. As one of only three nonprofits earning over $10 billion annually, it offers competitive salaries for positions like Program Specialist, with a salary range from $60,710 to $80,540, and a mid-salary of $69,450.
The salary range for a Program Specialist in the non-profit sector typically falls between $60,710 and $80,540, with a mid-salary of $69,450. While many non-profits are profitable, organizations like Goodwill Industries, Catholic Charities, and The Nature Conservancy are known for their effective spending and financial management.
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