Assistant Controller

Description

 JOB SUMMARY:

The Assistant Controller supports the Chief Financial Officer in overseeing the financial operations of the organization and ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of financial reporting. This role is responsible for the day-to-day management of the accounting function, including supervision of accounting staff, oversight of the monthly close process, general ledger maintenance, reconciliations, and compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and nonprofit financial reporting standards.

The Assistant Controller plays a key role in budget development, grant accounting and reporting (including federal funding), and coordination of the annual independent audit. This position ensures strong internal controls, regulatory compliance, and high-quality financial information to support organizational decision-making.

Requirements

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Financial Operations & Accounting Oversight

• Manage and oversee the daily operations of the accounting department.

• Supervise accounting staff and provide leadership, training, and performance oversight.

• Oversee the monthly accounting cycle close process to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting.

• Maintain and monitor the general ledger, including account structure, classifications, and adjustments.

• Review and approve journal entries, reconciliations, and financial schedules.

• Ensure timely completion of balance sheet and bank reconciliations, including fixed assets, inventory, accruals, and restricted assets.

• Maintain strong internal controls and accounting procedures.

Budgeting & Financial Planning

• Assist in the preparation and consolidation of the annual organizational budget.

• Support departmental budget development and monitoring.

• Prepare financial analyses and variance reports for leadership.

• Support financial forecasting and cash flow monitoring.

Grants & Compliance

• Track, monitor, and report on federal, state, and other grant funding.

• Ensure compliance with grant requirements, cost allocation standards, and reporting deadlines.

• Prepare financial reports for funders and regulatory agencies.

• Support compliance with Uniform Guidance (2 CFR 200), as applicable.

Audit & Financial Reporting

• Assist in preparation and coordination of the annual independent financial audit and tax filing.

• Prepare audit schedules and respond to auditor requests.

• Support preparation of financial statements and required disclosures.

• Ensure compliance with nonprofit reporting standards and regulatory requirements.

Process Improvement & Controls

• Evaluate accounting systems, workflows, and procedures to improve efficiency and accuracy.

• Support implementation and maintenance of accounting policies and procedures.

• Assist in system upgrades or process automation initiatives.

Other Responsibilities

• Provide backup support for key accounting functions as needed.

• Assist with special financial projects and reporting requests.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.

• MBA and/or CPA strongly preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of eight (8) years of progressive accounting experience.

• Experience in nonprofit accounting required.

• Experience managing or supervising accounting staff required.

• Experience with grant accounting and reporting, preferably including federal funding.

• Experience supporting independent financial statement audits.

Technical Knowledge & Skills

• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and nonprofit accounting standards.

• Familiarity with internal controls and financial compliance requirements.

• Experience with budgeting, financial reporting, and financial analysis.

• Knowledge of NetSuite accounting software required.

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial systems.

• Exceptional attention to detail and a high level of accuracy in financial data review, reconciliation, and reporting are essential.

• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Primarily office-based (onsite) work environment.

• Ability to sit for extended periods and work at a computer.

• Occasional lifting of materials up to 20 pounds may be required.