Director of Research Engineering, Wharton Computing

Job Description Summary

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 www.wharton.upenn.edu.

The Director of Research Engineering in Wharton Computing is responsible for organizing, directing, and managing the integrated Research Programming and Behavioral Lab technology functions within Wharton Computing. The position oversees the development, prioritization, and delivery of research-related software solutions; the planning and maintenance of laboratory information systems and electronic instrumentation supporting experimental research; and the governance and operation of enterprise research platforms, including Qualtrics.

The Director works closely with faculty, doctoral researchers, the Executive IT Director of Research & Analytics and the Behavioral Lab Faculty Director to define project scope, establish technical standards, evaluate emerging technologies, and ensure alignment with School and University objectives. The role includes advising departments and centers that partner with external development vendors, providing oversight and guidance to ensure technical quality, compliance, and integration with existing systems. The role supervises research engineering staff and is accountable for workflow management, technical architecture, compliance, service quality, and the effective operation and results of the Research Engineering function.

Job Description

Wharton Computing's Research & Analytics team (https://research-it.wharton.upenn.edu) is seeking an experienced IT Director to lead the Research Engineering function. You will be responsible for managing Research Programming and Behavioral Lab technology operations, including overseeing research software development, experimental systems, workflow prioritization, and service delivery.

You will supervise all aspects of research engineering projects, including faculty engagement, application enhancements, experimental platform support, and ongoing system improvements. You will work closely with the Executive IT Director and the Behavioral Lab Faculty Director to define overall strategy and direction. You will manage the team's projects and work directly with faculty and researchers to scope and develop technical solutions that contribute to research success.

Responsibilities will include ensuring adherence to technical standards, quality assurance, data integrity, security, and regulatory compliance requirements. This position requires a strong commitment to teamwork, the ability to manage multiple concurrent initiatives, and a dedication to delivering high-quality, high-impact research technology services. While there may be some flexibility for a hybrid schedule, the majority of time is expected to be spent on campus. Occasional after-hours support may be required.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science and 5 to 7 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
• Demonstrated management or supervisory experience required. Must have strong technical abilities and demonstrated experience using technology to solve complex problems. Experience leading software development projects and managing operational workflows required.
• Must have strong analytical skills and demonstrated experience in needs assessment and requirements gathering. Knowledge of database design, data engineering practices, and secure application development required. Excellent verbal and written communication skills and strong interpersonal skills required. Ability to manage multiple concurrent initiatives and work effectively within defined timelines.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in a related technical field.
• Experience supporting academic research or experimental laboratory environments. Experience administering or governing enterprise research platforms such as Qualtrics.
• Familiarity with cloud infrastructure, research computing environments, or AI-enabled research tools.

This position is designated as essential. Under Penn's Suspension of Normal Operations policy, the individual in this role may be required to work during periods when normal operations are suspended (e.g., due to weather or other emergencies).

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Wharton School

Pay Range

$120,000.00 - $145,000.00 Annual Rate