Senior Payroll Analyst, Wharton Finance & Administration

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning.

As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America’s Best Large Employers in 2023.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.

Business Administrator C

Wharton School Overview
Founded in 1881 as the world’s first collegiate business school, the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania is shaping the future of business by incubating ideas, driving insights, and creating leaders who change the world. With campuses in both Philadelphia and San Francisco, Wharton has over 850 staff, a faculty population of more than 235 renowned professors, and 5,000 undergraduate, MBA, executive MBA, and doctoral students.

Each year 13,000 professionals from around the world advance their careers through Wharton Executive Education’s individual, company-customized, and online programs. More than 104,000 Wharton alumni form a powerful global network of leaders who transform business every day. Wharton is home to a dynamic community of staff, bringing a wide range of skills, experiences, and perspectives. To learn more, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

The Senior Payroll Accountant is the lead expert responsible for ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of all payroll-related data through rigorous auditing, comprehensive reporting, and systematic review of exceptions. A central focus of this role is conducting ongoing payroll audits, including monthly, quarterly, and seasonal reviews, to verify proper job and student classifications, validate payment plans, reconcile salary activity, and identify discrepancies before they impact financial or regulatory compliance.

In partnership with departments and Wharton HR & People Operations, this position troubleshoots complex payroll issues, including over payments, off‑cycle adjustments, and timekeeping exceptions, while identifying systemic drivers and recommending sustainable process improvements.

This role requires strong analytical capability, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to identifying and resolving payroll issues through data-driven insights and continuous audit practices.
A bachelor's degree and 3‑5 years of related experience, or combination of education and experience is required. At least 5‑7 years of related experience is preferred.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Wharton School

$76,000.00 - $90,000.00 Annual Rate

Salary offers are made based on the candidate’s qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job’s level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are…