Program Analyst ARC in Washington, District of Columbia at FM Talent Source

FM Talent Source is an enterprise that provides business and workforce solutions to help organizations nationwide overcome business challenges. Our clients include federal, state and local government agencies, Fortune 500 Companies, and non-profit organizations. Founded in 2004, we have a strong history of providing recruitment strategies and utilizing effective project and quality management methodologies to ensure our clients’ success.

FM Talent is seeking an experienced Program Analyst (Temporary) to support the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) on a temporary, project-based assignment. The selected candidate will provide programmatic and grant management support for economic and community development initiatives across rural Appalachian communities.

This role will focus on reviewing project applications and progress reports, supporting federally funded infrastructure investments, and assisting ARC staff with analysis, documentation, and written summaries related to grant-funded projects. The ideal candidate brings a strong understanding of rural development, infrastructure planning, and federal or quasi-federal grant programs, along with excellent writing and collaboration skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Review grant applications, amendments, and progress reports for ARC-funded economic and community development projects to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with program requirements.
• Analyze project narratives, budgets, and supporting documentation related to infrastructure investments such as:
  • Water and wastewater systems
  • Industrial site development
  • Access roads and transportation improvements
  • Downtown revitalization
  • Other critical infrastructure supporting regional economic growth
• Synthesize complex project descriptions, technical details, and performance data into clear, concise written summaries, memos, and briefing materials.
• Support ARC program staff by tracking project milestones, deliverables, and reporting requirements.
• Assist with internal coordination and communication related to project review cycles and funding decisions.
• Follow guidance and direction from ARC and FM Talent leadership while working collaboratively across teams.
• Maintain organized records and documentation consistent with grant management best practices.

Required Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in grant management for economic development and/or community development projects, preferably in rural or economically distressed communities.
• Familiarity with federally funded or federally influenced grant programs (e.g., economic development, infrastructure, workforce, or community revitalization).
• Experience reviewing project applications, budgets, and progress or performance reports.
• Exceptional writing and editing skills, with the ability to distill large volumes of technical or narrative content into succinct, professional summaries.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to collaborate effectively, take direction, and meet deadlines in a structured program environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Expertise or hands-on experience with infrastructure development projects, including water, wastewater, transportation, industrial parks, or downtown development.
• Prior experience supporting federal agencies, commissions, or multi-state/regional development organizations.
• Understanding of rural economic development challenges in Appalachia or similar regions.

What to Expect Next

After submitting your application, please monitor the email address you used to apply, as well as your phone and text messages (if you opted in), for updates from our team.

If You Are Selected to Move Forward

If your application is selected for our prescreening stage, you may be contacted in one of the following ways:

• An invitation to complete a one-way video interview
• An email requesting a live prescreen interview
• A phone call to schedule a prescreen interview
• A text message to schedule a prescreen interview (only if you opted in during the application process)

During the Prescreening Stage

Once you complete your prescreen interview, you can expect:

• Within approximately one week, a call or email with next steps OR
• A call or email notifying you that you were not selected to move forward

If You Advance to Interview

• If selected for a position, you will receive a phone call from a member of our recruitment team with a verbal offer
• If you accept, a written contingent offer will follow
• If you are not selected after an interview, you will receive both a phone call and an email with your status

If You Are Not Selected to Move Forward

If your application is not selected for the prescreen stage, you will receive an email notification.

Compensation Range: The salary range provided is determined by market value, internal equity, and the candidate's experience and qualifications. Offers will be extended within this range, though not all candidates will receive an offer at the upper limit.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.