Program Operations Coordinator, Penn Wharton Budget Model

Program Operations Coordinator, Penn Wharton Budget Model

Job Description

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.

The Program Operations Coordinator provides critical support for the Penn Wharton Budget Model (PWBM). This role manages a broad range of operational, administrative, and programmatic functions supporting a team of approximately 30 researchers and engineering staff. The incumbent oversees key processes related to HR coordination, immigration support, program administration, and office operations while ensuring efficient day-to-day operations. The position requires strong initiative, ownership of processes, and the ability to proactively identify issues, drive work forward, and escalate matters when necessary to ensure timely resolution and effective program support.

Key Responsibilities

• 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 (ISSS) 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.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and at least 3 years or 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 escalate 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.

Job Location

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Wharton School

Pay Range

$55,000.00 - $65,000.00 Annual Rate