What Does a Program Analyst Do?
A program analyst is responsible for evaluating the effectiveness of programs, projects, or initiatives to ensure they meet organizational goals and compliance requirements. They collect and analyze data, review budgets, and assess workflows to identify areas for improvement. Program analysts often develop reports and dashboards that provide leadership with actionable insights for decision-making. Their work is essential for ensuring programs are efficient, cost-effective, and aligned with strategic objectives.
In addition to data and performance analysis, a program analyst collaborates with managers, stakeholders, and cross-functional teams to recommend improvements and implement solutions. They may monitor policy compliance, support funding requests, and assist with long-term planning. By combining research, analytical skills, and program knowledge, program analysts help organizations maximize impact and achieve measurable results.
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Program Analyst Core Responsibilities
- Collect and analyze data on program performance and outcomes
- Develop reports, dashboards, and presentations for leadership
- Review program budgets, funding, and resource allocations
- Evaluate compliance with organizational policies and regulations
- Identify inefficiencies and recommend improvements to processes or systems
- Assist in strategic planning and forecasting for programs
- Coordinate with stakeholders to support program objectives
- Monitor implementation of recommendations and track results
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in data analysis tools (Excel, SQL, Tableau, or Power BI)
- Knowledge of budget analysis and financial management
- Ability to create technical reports, presentations, and documentation
- Understanding of policy compliance and regulatory requirements
Soft skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and report-writing abilities
- Collaboration and stakeholder engagement skills
- Organizational skills to manage multiple projects
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business, finance, or related field required
Certifications
- Project Management Professional (PMP) certification recommended
- Lean Six Sigma certification recommended for process improvement roles
Preferred Qualifications
- 2–5 years of experience in program analysis, business analysis, or project management
- Experience in government, nonprofit, or large corporate environments
- Master’s degree in public administration, business, or related field preferred
National Average Salary
Program analyst salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Program Analyst is:
$92,224
Sample Job Description Templates for Program Analysts
Entry-Level Program Analyst
Position Overview
We are seeking an entry-level program analyst to support program evaluation, reporting, and process improvement activities. This role is designed for recent graduates or professionals beginning their careers in program or business analysis, with training provided on organizational tools and reporting systems.
Responsibilities
- Collect and organize data for program reports and evaluations
- Assist with preparing presentations and documentation for leadership
- Monitor program activities and ensure compliance with policies
- Support budget tracking and basic financial analysis
- Work with team members to identify and document areas for improvement
- Maintain accurate program records and assist in audit preparation
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
- Basic knowledge of data analysis and reporting tools
- Familiarity with research and evaluation methods
Soft skills
- Willingness to learn and take direction from senior staff
- Attention to detail and accuracy in data entry and reporting
- Strong organizational and teamwork abilities
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business, finance, or related field required
Preferred Qualifications
- Internship or volunteer experience in analysis, reporting, or program administration
Junior Program Analyst
Position Overview
We are hiring a junior program analyst to assist with data analysis, budget monitoring, and program evaluations. This role requires foundational analytical skills and the ability to manage small-scale projects under supervision.
Responsibilities
- Conduct research and prepare draft reports on program performance
- Assist in evaluating budget requests and financial allocations
- Create charts, tables, and visualizations for program data
- Collaborate with stakeholders to gather feedback on program effectiveness
- Support compliance monitoring and document program procedures
- Provide recommendations for process improvements based on findings
Requirements
Hard skills
- Ability to analyze data using Excel, SQL, or visualization tools
- Knowledge of budget analysis and program reporting practices
- Strong documentation and presentation preparation skills
Soft skills
- Analytical mindset with problem-solving ability
- Clear written and verbal communication
- Ability to work both independently and in teams
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business, or related field required
Preferred Qualifications
- 1–2 years of experience in program analysis, business analysis, or related fields
Mid-Level Program Analyst
Position Overview
We are seeking a mid-level program analyst to independently evaluate program operations, support strategic planning, and lead cross-functional projects. This role requires strong analytical skills and the ability to provide actionable recommendations to leadership.
Responsibilities
- Analyze program performance metrics and identify areas for improvement
- Develop detailed reports, dashboards, and presentations for management
- Conduct budget reviews and evaluate program expenditures
- Collaborate with teams to implement process improvements
- Ensure compliance with organizational and regulatory standards
- Assist in developing program strategies and long-term planning initiatives
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in data analysis tools such as Tableau, Power BI, or SQL
- Strong knowledge of program evaluation and budget monitoring methods
- Ability to create clear reports and communicate complex data
Soft skills
- Strong critical thinking and decision-making skills
- Ability to coordinate across multiple departments
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business, finance, or related field required
Preferred Qualifications
- 3–5 years of program analysis or related professional experience
- Lean Six Sigma or PMP certification recommended
Senior Program Analyst
Position Overview
We are hiring a senior program analyst to oversee complex program evaluations, guide junior analysts, and provide leadership with high-level recommendations. This role requires advanced expertise in data analysis, compliance, and program management.
Responsibilities
- Lead evaluations of large or high-impact programs
- Review and approve program data, reports, and analyses
- Mentor entry-level and junior program analysts
- Present findings and recommendations to senior leadership and stakeholders
- Oversee compliance monitoring and reporting for regulatory requirements
- Support executive decision-making with strategic analysis and forecasting
Requirements
Hard skills
- Advanced knowledge of program evaluation methodologies
- Proficiency with financial analysis, forecasting, and reporting tools
- Strong data visualization and presentation skills
Soft skills
- Leadership and mentoring abilities
- Strong negotiation and influence skills
- Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking capabilities
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business, or related field required; master’s degree preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 7+ years of experience in program or business analysis
- PMP, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, or similar certification
Lead Program Analyst
Position Overview
We are seeking a lead program analyst to provide technical direction and leadership for program evaluation efforts. This role combines hands-on analysis with oversight responsibilities, ensuring consistency in methodology, reporting, and performance tracking.
Responsibilities
- Supervise program analysis teams and assign responsibilities
- Review and validate program data, reports, and compliance documentation
- Ensure consistency and accuracy in performance metrics across programs
- Collaborate with leadership to establish strategic goals and objectives
- Develop policies, frameworks, and standards for program analysis
- Train and mentor analysts to build department-wide expertise
Requirements
Hard skills
- Mastery of program evaluation and data analysis techniques
- Strong knowledge of regulatory frameworks and compliance monitoring
- Experience managing cross-functional projects and teams
Soft skills
- Strong leadership and team management skills
- Ability to communicate insights to both technical and non-technical audiences
- Strategic planning and organizational skills
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in public administration, business, or related field required; master’s degree strongly preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 10+ years of program analysis experience, with leadership responsibilities
- Certifications such as PMP, CSCP, or advanced Lean Six Sigma
Program Analysis Manager
Position Overview
We are hiring a program analysis manager to lead the program analysis department, oversee staff performance, and align evaluation efforts with organizational strategy. This role requires executive-level leadership, policy expertise, and strategic vision.
Responsibilities
- Manage and oversee program analysis teams across multiple programs
- Develop and implement policies, procedures, and standards for program evaluation
- Oversee departmental budgets and allocate resources effectively
- Present high-level findings and recommendations to executives and stakeholders
- Ensure compliance with organizational policies and external regulations
- Support long-term strategic planning through data-driven insights
- Mentor staff and lead professional development initiatives
Requirements
Hard skills
- Mastery of program evaluation, compliance monitoring, and financial analysis
- Expertise in developing KPIs and performance frameworks
- Strong proficiency with data analytics, visualization, and reporting tools
Soft skills
- Executive-level leadership and decision-making abilities
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
- Strategic thinking and ability to influence organizational policy
Education
- Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree in public administration, business, or related field strongly preferred
Preferred Qualifications
- 12+ years of professional experience in program analysis, with at least 3 in a management role
- PMP, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, or equivalent certification