Controller

About the role

The Controller reports to the Chief Financial Officer and provides strategic and operational leadership for EFC’s Accounting and Debt Service Units. This role ensures the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of the Corporation’s financial reporting; oversees daily accounting, cash management, and debt administration activities; and maintains strong internal controls that support compliance with federal and state requirements. The Controller develops deep expertise in EFC’s financial data, guides staff, manages complex financial operations, and contributes to the Corporation’s overall financial strategy.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the Accounting and Debt Service Units, including financial reporting, preparation of financial statements, audit coordination, debt service billings, weekly project disbursements, investment activities, accounts payable, cash disbursements, reconciliations, payroll transaction processing, and quarterly/year-end procedures.
• Review and analyze the Corporation’s financial condition, including development of the annual Five-Year Budget and Financial Plan, and provide recommendations to support financial soundness and operational efficiency.
• Manage federal and state program funding, including drawing of funds, calculating balances, ensuring Single Audit compliance, and preparing required reports.
• Prepare, review, and coordinate the annual indirect cost rate and fringe benefit plan filing with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
• Ensure effective internal controls, evaluating and improving procedures and processes to support accuracy, accountability, and audit readiness.
• Validate financial deliverables across the Corporation, including EPA reporting, State Revolving Fund Intended Use Plan development, and other ad hoc reporting.
• Calculate closing cashflows for public debt issuances and support related financial activities.
• Provide leadership and supervision to Accounting & Finance staff, including prioritizing and assigning work, ensuring staff are trained, providing mentoring and coaching, and conducting performance evaluations.
• Support strategic financial planning, collaborating with the CFO and senior leadership to identify opportunities for operational improvements, policy enhancements, and risk mitigation.
• Maintain strong banking and investment oversight, ensuring funds are deposited, invested, and disbursed accurately and in accordance with Corporation policy.
• Coordinate external audits, ensuring timely responses, accurate supporting documentation, and effective communication with auditors.
• Contribute to continuous improvement, identifying opportunities to streamline processes, enhance reporting, and strengthen financial controls.
• Build and maintain multiple complex financial models utilizing various data tools and inputs from a multitude of sources.

Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and 7+ years of progressively responsible experience in accounting, auditing, or financial reporting, including supervisory experience.
• Experience in public accounting, investment fund accounting, debt administration, or public sector financial management is strongly preferred.
• Preference may be given to candidates with a Master’s degree in Accounting or Finance, or who hold an active CPA license.
• An equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the position may be considered, as determined by the Corporation.

Skills

• Advanced knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), governmental accounting, and financial reporting.
• Understanding of internal controls, audit standards, and compliance.
• Advanced financial modeling skills, including Microsoft Excel, Power Query, and data aggregation from multiple sources.
• Strong analytical abilities and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work independently.
• Strong communication skills, including the ability to explain complex financial concepts clearly.
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory skills, including mentoring and staff development across a variety of career stages and skill levels.
• Flexible mindset with the ability to adapt to evolving program requirements, shifting priorities, and operational needs.
• Experience with public debt administration, investment accounting, cashflow modeling, and debt service management (preferred).
• Experience with Federal and state program funding, including Single Audit requirements (preferred).

Working Conditions

Work is performed primarily in an office setting and involves routine use of standard office equipment, including computers. This position requires sitting or standing for extended periods, communicating effectively, and handling documents and other office materials.

Benefits

• Leave benefits: Paid Parental Leave, 13 holidays, and paid vacation, sick, and personal leave.
• Comprehensive health insurance program including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision plans.
• Membership in either the NYS and Local Retirement System (a defined benefit plan) or the Voluntary Defined Contribution Program.

The New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC) aids local governments and other eligible applicants throughout New York State to undertake critical water quality infrastructure projects by providing access to low-cost financing capital, grants, and expert technical assistance.