Assistant Controller

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day accounting activities, including preparing journal entries, reviewing complex reconciliations, and addressing account variances with accuracy and urgency.
• Oversee the monthly close cycle to ensure deadlines are met, balances are supported, and financial records remain complete and reliable.
• Direct the preparation and consolidation of financial statements, including supporting schedules and footnote disclosures aligned with organizational standards.
• Cook up annual audit readiness by organizing account analyses, responding to auditor requests, and helping maintain well-documented financial records.
• Supervise and mentor a team of staff accountants, providing clear direction, workload oversight, and ongoing coaching in a largely onsite setting.
• Work closely with finance personnel and campus administrators to investigate accounting questions, resolve issues, and improve communication across departments.
• Support the Assistant VP & Controller with operational accounting needs, executive reporting requests, and other finance initiatives as assigned.
• Contribute accounting expertise to broader departmental projects, including activities connected to the institution’s enterprise system transition when needed.

Requirements

• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, including substantial responsibility for general ledger activity, close processes, and financial reporting.
• Demonstrated background in fund accounting is required; nonprofit or higher education fund accounting experience is highly valued.
• Prior experience leading or supervising accounting staff, with the ability to provide guidance, accountability, and team support.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills are required for reporting, analysis, and reconciliation work.
• Strong understanding of financial statement preparation and month-end close procedures is essential.
• Experience in higher education and familiarity with Ellucian Banner are preferred but not mandatory.
• Exposure to Cognos reporting tools is a plus.

Qualifications

Prior experience in accounting within higher education is a plus.

Skills

• Financial statement preparation and month-end close procedures
• Microsoft Excel
• Accounting software (Ellucian Banner)
• Cognos reporting tools

Benefits

Medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan.

Pay

Commensurate with experience.

Schedule

Primarily onsite, with 1 day hybrid flexibility.