Program Assistant
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Manage calendars and schedule meetings
- Prepare agendas and capture meeting notes
- Track tasks, deadlines, and action items
- Maintain program files, records, and contact lists
- Support event planning and logistics
- Draft and send routine communications to stakeholders
- Process purchase requests and reimbursements
- Compile simple reports and status updates
- Coordinate onboarding tasks for new team members
- Support vendors and internal partners with basic coordination
Top Skills for Success
Organization
Time Management
Written Communication
Verbal Communication
Attention to Detail
Customer Service
Stakeholder Coordination
Scheduling
Meeting Facilitation
Document Management
Spreadsheet Skills
Basic Reporting
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Program Coordinator
Administrative Coordinator
Operations Coordinator
Executive Assistant
Project Coordinator
Transition Opportunities
Program Manager
Project Manager
Operations Manager
Office Manager
Grants Coordinator
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
Project TrackingBudget TrackingMinute TakingVendor CoordinationData Entry AccuracyProcess ImprovementBasic Analytics
Development SuggestionsBuild a simple tracking system for tasks and deadlines, practice writing clear meeting notes, and learn basic spreadsheet reporting. Ask to own one recurring workflow such as monthly status updates to demonstrate reliability and impact.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry LevelUSD 38,000 to 50,000
Mid LevelUSD 50,000 to 65,000
Senior LevelUSD 65,000 to 82,000
Growth Trend
Steady demand across healthcare, education, government, and nonprofits, with continued hiring in roles that support programs, operations, and events.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
Universities and collegesHospitals and health systemsCity and state agenciesNonprofit organizationsCommunity foundationsLarge professional services firmsTechnology companiesResearch institutes
Industry Sectors
EducationHealthcareGovernmentNonprofitProfessional ServicesTechnologyResearch
Recommended Next Steps
1
Create a one page resume section highlighting coordination work and measurable outcomes2
Build a reusable meeting agenda template and notes template3
Set up a task tracker and use it consistently for one program area4
Strengthen spreadsheet skills with sorting, filters, and simple charts5
Volunteer to coordinate one event or training session end to end6
Request exposure to budget tracking and vendor communications7
Target roles titled Program Coordinator or Project Coordinator as the next step