Program Analyst Jobs in California
Program Analyst jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in state government agencies, defense contracting, technology firms, and healthcare systems, with openings at every level from entry-level research associates through senior policy leads. Sacramento, Los Angeles, and San Diego anchor the heaviest hiring, where employers such as Deloitte, Northrop Grumman, and the California Department of Finance maintain large, sustained program analyst workforces. The most in-demand specialties in California right now are IT program analysis, healthcare operations, and defense acquisition support. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Job ID: 89235
Job Posting
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Job Title: Benefits Program Analyst 4
Job #: 89235
Position Base: Oakland, CA
UC OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
At the University of California (UC), your contributions make a difference. A world leader producing Nobel and Pulitzer Prize recipients with over 150 years of groundbreaking research transforming the world. Choose a career where you can leverage your knowledge, skills and aspirations to inspire and support some of the greatest minds in the world, and those who will follow in their footsteps. Working at the University of California is being part of a unique institution, and a vibrant and diverse community. At the University of California, Office of the President, we propel our mission through impactful work locally, in government centers and systemwide. We are passionate people, serving the greater good.
The University of California, one of the largest and most acclaimed institutions of higher learning in the world, is dedicated to excellence in teaching, research and public service. The University of California Office of the President is the headquarters to the 10 campuses, six academic medical centers and three national laboratories and enrolls premier students from California, the nation and the world. Learn more about the UC Office of the President
DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW
Systemwide Benefits Programs & Strategy manages and creates health benefits strategy and programs that enhance the well-being of our employees and their families. The Benefits Programs and Strategy unit is made up of three areas: Health and Welfare Benefits, Retirement Savings Programs and Benefits Information Systems.
POSITION SUMMARY
This is a TEMPORARY position within our Temporary Office of the President Staffing (TOPS) program.
As a Benefits Program Analyst 4, you will provide high-level planning, analysis and operational support for the systemwide health and welfare benefit programs for UC faculty, staff, retirees and their dependents.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Primary program responsibilities are for the Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts for the Faculty/Staff and Postdoctoral Scholars benefits programs, and oversight of the COBRA continuation coverage program.
- Additional assignments may include assisting with management of benefits administration projects that span the Health & Welfare Benefits' portfolio.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Five years experience in employee benefits program management.
- Knowledge of Health Flexible Spending Account administration and COBRA law relative to continuation of employment benefits.
- Ability to work independently, follow through on assignments with general supervision, and meet deadlines in a demanding environment.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills and highly-developed interpersonal skills.
- Ability to analyze complex information and to present benefits information clearly and concisely.
- Strong customer service orientation and ability to problem-solve client concerns.
- Knowledge of and ability to apply principles of project management.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of UC employee benefits programs.
- Knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations applicable to large group health and welfare benefit plans.
- Certified Employee Benefits Specialist.
EDUCATION.
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience / training.
SPECIAL CONDITIONS
This position is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement. The person hired will be required to reside within California and will be required to report to work onsite at UC's Office of the President (UCOP) located in Oakland, CA.
SALARY AND BENEFITS
The University of California, Office of the President, is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the salary grade for a position. The full salary range shows the growth potential for this position.
Job Title: Benefits Program Analyst 4
Payroll Title: Benefits PRG STRAT ANL 4
Job Code: 000435
Salary Grade: Grade 24
PayScale/ budgeted hourly range: $50.10/hour - $71.89/hour. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
HOW TO APPLY
Please be prepared to attach a cover letter and resume with your application.
APPLICATION REVIEW DATE
The position will be open until filled.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.
- "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
Smoke Free Work Environment: The University of California, Office of the President, is smoke & tobacco-free as of January 1, 2014. UC Smoke & Tobacco Free Policy
EEO STATEMENT
The University of California, Office of the President, is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status. EEO/AA Employer UC Nondiscrimination Policy
The University of California, Office of the President, strives to make this job board accessible to any and all users. If you have comments regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us at Accessibility or email the Human Resource Department at epost@ucop.edu.
To apply, visit https://careerspub.universityofcalifornia.edu/psc/ucop/EMPLOYEE/HRMS/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&JobOpeningId=89235&PostingSeq=1&SiteId=19&languageCd=ENG&FOCUS=Applicant
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See All 132+ Program Analyst Jobs in California
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Find Program Analyst JobsProgram Analyst Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Program Analyst Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Northrop Grumman32

- Raytheon5

- JPMorganChase5

- Turner & Townsend Pty Limited5

- Heluna Health4

Top Industries Hiring
- Government & Public Sector
- Healthcare & Medical Services
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in program analyst jobs across California.
- Bachelor's degree in public administration, business, information systems, or a related field
- Experience with program planning, evaluation, and performance reporting for complex projects
- Proficiency in data analysis tools such as Excel, Tableau, Power BI, or SQL
- Familiarity with California state government procurement or federal contracting frameworks
- Strong written communication skills including policy briefs, status reports, and presentations
- Experience coordinating across cross-functional teams and managing multiple concurrent deliverables
Program Analyst Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a program analyst in California?
Most program analyst roles in California require a bachelor's degree in public administration, business, information systems, or a related discipline. California state government positions often require passing a civil service exam administered through CalHR, the California Department of Human Resources, which also maintains the statewide classification system for analyst titles. Private sector and federal contractor roles in California prioritize demonstrated analytical experience and relevant certifications such as PMP or Lean Six Sigma over licensure.
How much do program analysts make in California?
Program analysts in California earn a median of about $127,720 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $79,110 for the lowest 10% to over $181,770 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire program analysts in California?
Employers hiring program analysts in California right now include Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, and JPMorganChase, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of October 2026. California's concentration of defense contractors, state agencies, and large technology headquarters makes it one of the most consistent states for sustained program analyst hiring year-round.
Which California cities have the most program analyst jobs?
San Diego, Redondo Beach, and San Francisco have the most program analyst openings in California. Sacramento leads because it is the seat of state government, where dozens of agencies hire analysts for policy, budget, and operations work, while Los Angeles and San Diego generate demand through their large defense contractor ecosystems, county health departments, and corporate headquarters.
Are there remote program analyst jobs in California?
Yes, and more than most fields. About 45% of program analyst openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of October 2026, reflecting how document-heavy and meeting-driven this work tends to be. The parts of the role most likely to stay remote are research, reporting, and data analysis, while roles tied to state government contracts or classified defense programs typically require on-site presence.
How can I get hired as a program analyst in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is through California state government's Staff Services Analyst classification, which CalHR opens to candidates with a qualifying degree and no prior analyst experience. Large California employers such as Deloitte's Sacramento public-sector practice and county government offices regularly post analyst trainee and associate analyst roles. Candidates transitioning from adjacent roles such as administrative analyst, budget technician, or research coordinator have a strong shot, and earning a PMP fundamentals certificate or completing a data analytics bootcamp sharpens any application.
Where can I find and apply to program analyst jobs in California?
You can find and apply to program analyst jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings from employers actively hiring right now. Find roles that fit your background and apply directly to each one.
See All 132+ Program Analyst Jobs in California
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