H-1B Visa Program Specialist Jobs
Program Specialist roles qualify for H-1B sponsorship when the position requires at least a bachelor's degree in a directly related field such as public policy, social work, business administration, or education. Federal agencies, nonprofits with federal contracts, and large program management firms regularly file LCAs for these roles.
See All Program Specialist JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 3,417+ Program Specialist jobs
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
See all 3,417+ Program Specialist jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Program Specialist roles.
Get Access To All JobsDESCRIPTION
The Lead Program Specialist provides senior-level programmatic and grants management support to the Office of Head Start (OHS) Regional Offices under the National Customer Service Improvement Project (CSIP). This role leads and coordinates day-to-day delivery of grant oversight, monitoring, analysis, and technical assistance activities, ensuring consistent, high-quality support aligned with federal statutes, regulations, and OHS policies.
The Lead Program Specialist serves as a subject matter expert and team lead for Program Support Specialists, supports regional and national initiatives, and plays a key role in ensuring timely, accurate, and compliant execution of grant management functions.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead and perform review, analysis, and administrative activities related to Head Start, Early Head Start, and Early Head Start–Child Care Partnership grants.
- Oversee and support review of grant applications, budget modifications, supplemental applications (including change in scope and facilities requests), waiver requests, and post-award requirements.
- Ensure grant-related analysis and documentation are completed accurately and recorded in appropriate federal systems, including HSES and GrantSolutions.
- Support execution of grant awards and related administrative actions in coordination with OHS and the Office of Grants Management (OGM).
- Identify performance or compliance concerns and support development of risk mitigation strategies and technical assistance responses.
- Provide accurate, policy-aligned guidance and technical assistance to support grant recipients’ compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards and grant requirements.
- Support Central Office and Regional Office initiatives by contributing subject matter expertise and programmatic analysis.
- Serve as a lead and mentor to Program Support Specialists, supporting workload management, quality assurance, and consistent application of policies and procedures.
- Coordinate with the Project Manager and other team leads to align staffing, priorities, and deliverables.
- Support onboarding, training, and ongoing development of Program Support Specialist staff.
- Contribute to development and refinement of standard operating procedures, guidance documents, training materials, and webinars.
- Support data-informed process improvement efforts to strengthen consistency and efficiency across regions.
- Contribute to the preparation of management briefings, reports, and presentations for Government leadership as requested.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, human services, public administration, or a related field from an accredited institution.
- 5+ years of progressively responsible professional experience directly related to early childhood programs, with a strong preference for Head Start or Early Head Start experience.
- 3+ years of experience with federal discretionary grants management, non-profit or for-profit program and/or financial management, and regulatory compliance monitoring and oversight.
- 2+ years of supervisory experience.
- Must have valid driver's license and successfully pass a Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) check.
- Must obtain and maintain client background clearance.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with federal discretionary grants management, including programmatic review, monitoring, compliance oversight, and documentation.
- Experience analyzing and synthesizing data and information from multiple sources to inform oversight, decision-making, and recommendations.
- Demonstrated ability to produce clear, high-quality written products, including reports, memoranda, correspondence, and presentations.
- Strong knowledge of Head Start program operations, grant administration, and federal compliance requirements.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including ability to convey complex information clearly.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently while coordinating closely with a larger project team.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and web-based federal information systems.
WORKING AT ICF
ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we’re not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future. We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read our EEO policy.
We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an accommodation, please email Candidateaccommodation@icf.com and we will be happy to assist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.
Read more about workplace discrimination rights or our benefit offerings which are included in the Transparency in (Benefits) Coverage Act.
CANDIDATE AI USAGE POLICY
At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process.
However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodation that involves the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at candidateaccommodation@icf.com. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.
PAY RANGE - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:
$73,770.00 - $125,408.00
LOCATION
DC Field Office (DC66)
DESCRIPTION
The Lead Program Specialist provides senior-level programmatic and grants management support to the Office of Head Start (OHS) Regional Offices under the National Customer Service Improvement Project (CSIP). This role leads and coordinates day-to-day delivery of grant oversight, monitoring, analysis, and technical assistance activities, ensuring consistent, high-quality support aligned with federal statutes, regulations, and OHS policies.
The Lead Program Specialist serves as a subject matter expert and team lead for Program Support Specialists, supports regional and national initiatives, and plays a key role in ensuring timely, accurate, and compliant execution of grant management functions.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead and perform review, analysis, and administrative activities related to Head Start, Early Head Start, and Early Head Start–Child Care Partnership grants.
- Oversee and support review of grant applications, budget modifications, supplemental applications (including change in scope and facilities requests), waiver requests, and post-award requirements.
- Ensure grant-related analysis and documentation are completed accurately and recorded in appropriate federal systems, including HSES and GrantSolutions.
- Support execution of grant awards and related administrative actions in coordination with OHS and the Office of Grants Management (OGM).
- Identify performance or compliance concerns and support development of risk mitigation strategies and technical assistance responses.
- Provide accurate, policy-aligned guidance and technical assistance to support grant recipients’ compliance with Head Start Program Performance Standards and grant requirements.
- Support Central Office and Regional Office initiatives by contributing subject matter expertise and programmatic analysis.
- Serve as a lead and mentor to Program Support Specialists, supporting workload management, quality assurance, and consistent application of policies and procedures.
- Coordinate with the Project Manager and other team leads to align staffing, priorities, and deliverables.
- Support onboarding, training, and ongoing development of Program Support Specialist staff.
- Contribute to development and refinement of standard operating procedures, guidance documents, training materials, and webinars.
- Support data-informed process improvement efforts to strengthen consistency and efficiency across regions.
- Contribute to the preparation of management briefings, reports, and presentations for Government leadership as requested.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, human services, public administration, or a related field from an accredited institution.
- 5+ years of progressively responsible professional experience directly related to early childhood programs, with a strong preference for Head Start or Early Head Start experience.
- 3+ years of experience with federal discretionary grants management, non-profit or for-profit program and/or financial management, and regulatory compliance monitoring and oversight.
- 2+ years of supervisory experience.
- Must have valid driver's license and successfully pass a Motor Vehicle Records (MVR) check.
- Must obtain and maintain client background clearance.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with federal discretionary grants management, including programmatic review, monitoring, compliance oversight, and documentation.
- Experience analyzing and synthesizing data and information from multiple sources to inform oversight, decision-making, and recommendations.
- Demonstrated ability to produce clear, high-quality written products, including reports, memoranda, correspondence, and presentations.
- Strong knowledge of Head Start program operations, grant administration, and federal compliance requirements.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including ability to convey complex information clearly.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently while coordinating closely with a larger project team.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and web-based federal information systems.
WORKING AT ICF
ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we’re not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future. We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read our EEO policy.
We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an accommodation, please email Candidateaccommodation@icf.com and we will be happy to assist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.
Read more about workplace discrimination rights or our benefit offerings which are included in the Transparency in (Benefits) Coverage Act.
CANDIDATE AI USAGE POLICY
At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process.
However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodation that involves the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at candidateaccommodation@icf.com. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.
PAY RANGE - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:
$73,770.00 - $125,408.00
LOCATION
DC Field Office (DC66)
See all 3,417+ Program Specialist jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Program Specialist roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding H-1B Visa Sponsorship as a Program Specialist
Verify your degree field matches the role
USCIS scrutinizes specialty occupation claims for Program Specialist positions. Pull the O*NET profile for your specific SOC code to confirm the typical education requirement is a bachelor's in a specific discipline, not any field.
Target federal contractors filing LCAs consistently
Federal contractors running government programs must file LCAs through DOL before sponsoring you. Search OFLC Wage Search by job title and state to find employers with certified LCAs for Program Specialist roles in your target area.
Search verified H-1B sponsors on Migrate Mate
Filter by Program Specialist roles on Migrate Mate to see employers with documented H-1B filing history for this title. That filing history confirms they've navigated the process before and won't treat your sponsorship request as an unfamiliar ask.
Request an H-1B transfer if already sponsored
If you're currently on an H-1B, a new employer can file a portability transfer without waiting for cap selection. Confirm the new role still qualifies as specialty occupation under your existing I-129 petition's occupational category.
Clarify whether the employer is cap-exempt
Universities, government research institutions, and certain nonprofits affiliated with higher education are cap-exempt. A Program Specialist role at a qualifying institution can be filed year-round without entering the annual lottery, removing the biggest timing risk.
Get the prevailing wage tier in writing before negotiating
DOL assigns your role to a wage level (I through IV) based on job duties and experience. Ask your employer which wage level they intend to use on the LCA before you accept an offer so your actual salary meets DOL compliance requirements.
Program Specialist jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
Find Program Specialist JobsProgram Specialist H-1B Visa: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Program Specialist role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B purposes?
It depends on how the employer defines the position. USCIS requires the job to normally demand a bachelor's degree or higher in a specific, directly related field. A Program Specialist role that accepts any degree or relies mainly on generalist experience is more likely to receive an RFE. Job descriptions that require a specific discipline such as public health, education policy, or business administration have a stronger specialty occupation argument.
Which types of employers sponsor H-1B visas for Program Specialist positions?
Federal contractors, state and local government program offices, large nonprofits managing federal grants, and healthcare systems with community program divisions are among the more consistent H-1B sponsors for Program Specialists. These employers file LCAs regularly because their program management work requires degreed professionals in specific fields. You can identify them by searching for LCA filings on OFLC Wage Search or browsing employer-filtered listings on Migrate Mate.
How does the H-1B prevailing wage apply to Program Specialist jobs?
DOL requires your employer to pay at least the prevailing wage for the SOC code and geographic area listed on the LCA. Program Specialist roles can fall under several SOC codes depending on program type, and each carries different wage levels. The employer selects the wage level based on your duties and experience. You can look up the applicable wage using OFLC Wage Search before your offer negotiation to verify the number your employer is required to meet.
Can a nonprofit sponsor my H-1B for a Program Specialist role?
Yes, but the rules differ by organization type. Standard nonprofits go through the same cap lottery as private employers. Nonprofits affiliated with a qualifying institution of higher education or a government research entity may qualify as cap-exempt, meaning they can file your H-1B petition any time of year. Ask the employer specifically whether they file as cap-subject or cap-exempt before assuming you'll need to wait for the April lottery.
What happens to my H-1B status if my Program Specialist role changes significantly?
A material change in job duties, location, or salary may require your employer to file an amended H-1B petition with USCIS. If the new duties shift the role out of specialty occupation territory, the amendment could trigger an RFE. Document the scope of any role change with your employer and confirm whether the amended duties still satisfy the degree-requirement standard before the change takes effect.
See which Program Specialist employers are hiring and sponsoring visas right now.
Search Program Specialist Jobs