Financial Planning Analyst

The Pennsylvania State University•University Park, FL

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Financial Planning Analyst supports the business unit and Strategic Financial Partner in the Eberly College of Science. The role provides oversight and expert guidance to unit leaders on budget and financial matters, serves as a subject matter expert in one or more budget or fiscal-related areas, and advises unit leaders on budget management and financial controls. It provides in-depth financial analysis, forecasting, and budget modeling, and supports long-term financial planning to help ensure effective resource allocation aligns with the university’s mission, strategic goals, and regulatory requirements. The position offers a flexible work arrangement combining remote and on-campus work. Remote or hybrid work approval is not guaranteed. The role may supervise staff members, including hiring, development, and performance management.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree.
If filled at the Senior Professional level: 6 or more years of relevant experience.
If filled at the Advanced Professional level: 3 or more years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Must be authorized to work in the United States; Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment visa.
Successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Responsibilities

Collaborate in analyzing budget and resource data and provide data-driven recommendations and financial insights.
Gather, compile, and manipulate data; determine analytical methods when appropriate.
Develop, maintain, and refine financial models for long-range planning and scenario analysis.
Oversee assigned components of budget activities and participate in developing budget processes and project specifications.
Review financial reports, explain budget-to-actual variances, and analyze trends in revenues, expenditures, enrollments, and funding sources.
Ensure appropriate spending and billing practices are followed.
Monitor financial performance against budgets and forecasts, identifying concerns and opportunities.
Participate in developing financial dashboards and reporting tools for internal stakeholders and senior leadership.
Provide financial analyses for new initiatives, program reviews, and business plans, including ROI and cost-benefit assessments.
Assist with preparing annual operating budgets and align them with unit and institutional priorities.
Manage workforce planning and labor distribution for assigned business areas and assist with annual salary increase program execution.
Support compliance with internal policies, external regulations, and audit requirements; oversee audits as required.
Partner with other university offices to ensure consistent data sources and accurate financial projections.
May supervise staff, including hiring, development, and performance management.