Program Operations Coordinator, Penn Wharton Budget Model

Program Operations Coordinator, Penn Wharton Budget Model

Job Profile

Title:

Coordinator

B.

The Penn Wharton Budget Model (PWBM) is a non‑partisan, research‑based initiative that provides accurate and transparent economic analysis of public policy. PWBM works directly with federal policymakers to provide analysis but does not make policy recommendations. PWBM’s work is widely cited and has been influential in many key recent policy discussions, including tax reform, health care and entitlement reforms, immigration, education, and the federal budget.

• Manage staff recruitment and onboarding processes, including coordinating candidate screening, interviews, reference checks, onboarding activities, and administration of student worker hiring and payroll while maintaining strict confidentiality of personnel records.
• Serve as a central operational point of contact for PWBM staff and leadership, providing coordination for policy questions, reimbursements, travel preparation, calendar management, and meeting logistics, and ensuring timely follow‑through on administrative needs.
• Own and coordinate visa and immigration processes for foreign national staff, managing documentation and timelines, monitoring progress, identifying potential risks or delays, and escalating issues to International Student and Scholar Services or other partners as needed.
• Plan and coordinate PWBM events and outreach activities, including seminars, conferences, and panel discussions, independently managing logistics and timelines to ensure successful execution.
• Administer the Penn Wharton Public Policy Certificate Program, including supporting cohort preparation, coordinating program logistics and participants, managing course materials and learning platforms, and resolving or escalating operational issues when needed.
• Oversee day‑to‑day office operations, including managing supply and equipment purchases, coordinating facilities maintenance, and ensuring a well‑functioning office environment.
• Maintain organized operational documentation and track program and event analytics, proactively updating processes, identifying improvements, and providing data to leadership to support planning and reporting.

• Bachelor’s degree and at least 3 years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience required.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple processes simultaneously.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative, exercise sound judgment, and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to identify issues, problem‑solve, and elevate matters appropriately.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to collaborate across teams.
• Comfort working in fast‑paced environments with evolving priorities.
• Interest in public policy required; experience in a public policy, academic, or research environment preferred.

This position is contingent upon restricted funding with a 2‑year term.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Wharton School

$55,000.00 - $65,000.00 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 considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Background checks may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

• Health, Life, and Flexible Spending Accounts
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