The University of Pennsylvania, The Wharton School, commonly known as Wharton, is the world's first collegiate business school, founded in 1881. Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, it is part of the Ivy League's University of Pennsylvania and stands as a global leader in business education. Jobs at Wharton span faculty, research, administrative, and support roles, attracting top talent eager to contribute to groundbreaking research and education in fields like finance, management, and entrepreneurship. Whether you're a PhD holder seeking tenure-track positions or a professional interested in administration jobs, Wharton's dynamic environment offers unparalleled opportunities.
With its emphasis on innovation, Wharton employs over 1,000 faculty and staff, supporting programs that educate future leaders. The school's commitment to excellence means jobs here come with competitive salaries, extensive benefits, and access to world-class resources. Philadelphia's location provides a blend of urban vibrancy and academic prestige, making it ideal for careers in higher education.
Established by Joseph Wharton, a prominent industrialist, the school aimed to produce graduates trained in business to serve the nation. Over 140 years, it has evolved into a powerhouse with 10 academic departments and more than 20 centers and initiatives. This rich history shapes today's job landscape, where roles often involve pioneering research that influences global business practices.
Key milestones include launching the first MBA program in 1921 and expanding executive education. Today, jobs at Wharton reflect this legacy, with positions in cutting-edge areas like AI in business and sustainable finance. Understanding this background helps applicants align their expertise with the school's tradition of leadership.
Wharton offers diverse positions. Faculty jobs include assistant, associate, and full professors in departments like Accounting, Finance, and Marketing. Research roles encompass postdocs and associates in institutes like the Wharton Risk Management Center. Administrative positions cover admissions, student services, and development, while staff jobs include IT, HR, and facilities.
For a full breakdown, visit our university job types page. Many roles align with higher ed faculty jobs or research jobs.
To navigate jobs at Wharton, familiarize yourself with essential terms:
Faculty positions require a PhD or equivalent terminal degree in the relevant discipline from an accredited institution. For example, finance professors need expertise in econometrics or corporate finance. Research roles typically demand a master's or PhD, while administrative jobs may require a bachelor's plus experience. Specialized roles, like in the Wharton Executive MBA, prefer advanced degrees and industry background.
Wharton prioritizes research in business analytics, behavioral science, entrepreneurship, financial economics, healthcare management, management, marketing, operations, and real estate. Centers like the Zicklin Center for Business Ethics seek experts in ethical decision-making. Successful candidates often have publications in journals like the Journal of Finance or Harvard Business Review.
Employers value peer-reviewed publications, grant funding from NSF or private foundations, teaching experience at top schools, and industry consulting. For staff roles, 5+ years in higher ed administration or business is ideal. Executive positions favor leaders with MBA networks and fundraising success.
Core skills include analytical thinking, communication, leadership, and data proficiency (e.g., R, Python for research). Faculty need grant-writing and mentoring abilities; admin roles emphasize project management and stakeholder engagement. Cultural fit involves collaboration in a diverse, innovative environment.
Applications go through Wharton's faculty recruiting portal or UPenn's careers site. Submit CV, cover letter, research statement, teaching statement, and three references. Tips:
Deadlines vary; junior faculty searches start in September. Use our free resume template and cover letter template.
Wharton champions diversity through the Leadership that Gets Results program, Wharton INFORMS LGBTQ+ club, and the Alliance for Minority Advancement. The school has increased underrepresented minority faculty by 20% in recent years and offers bias training. Initiatives like the Management Department Diversity Committee ensure inclusive hiring.
Wharton promotes balance with 4 weeks vacation, sabbaticals every 7 years for faculty, on-site childcare, and gym access. Philadelphia's campus features Huntsman Hall, coffee shops, and events. Employee resource groups and wellness stipends support mental health. Proximity to cultural sites like the Philadelphia Museum of Art enhances life outside work.
Wharton jobs offer intellectual stimulation, global impact, and Ivy League prestige. Salaries are top-tier, with professors averaging $250K+. Philadelphia's cost of living is reasonable for the region. For more opportunities, check higher ed jobs, higher ed career advice, university jobs, or post a job if recruiting. Explore Ivy League positions and professor salaries for context.
Ready to join? Wharton's legacy awaits talented professionals.
