Controller
Job Title: Controller
Department: Finance
Reports To: Chief Financial Officer
Location: In person—Full-time
FLSA Status: Exempt
Salary: $150,000
Position Summary
The Controller is responsible for overseeing the institution’s accounting operations and ensuring the integrity, accuracy, and timeliness of financial reporting in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and applicable federal and state regulations. The Controller manages core financial functions, including general ledger, financial statements, audits, investments, internal controls, and compliance, and plays a key role in supporting the institution’s mission through sound financial stewardship.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Financial Management & Reporting
- Oversee all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll accounting, fixed assets, investments, and reconciliations
- Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and management reports
- Ensure compliance with GAAP and institutional accounting policies
- Coordinate year-end close processes and financial statement preparation
Audit & Compliance
- Serve as primary liaison with external auditors and coordinate annual financial and compliance audits
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and accrediting agency financial requirements
- Maintain strong internal controls and recommend improvements to mitigate financial risk
Budgeting & Financial Planning
- Support the CFO and Budget Manager in the annual budgeting process and multi-year financial planning
- Provide financial analysis and forecasting to support strategic decision-making
Leadership & Supervision
- Supervise and mentor accounting staff; assign work and review performance
- Establish efficient workflows and ensure cross-training within the accounting team
- Promote a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement
Systems & Process Improvement
- Oversee financial systems and ERP modules related to accounting and reporting
- Lead or support system implementations, upgrades, and process improvements
- Develop and document accounting policies and procedures
Collaboration & Advisory Role
- Partner with campus leadership, academic departments, and administrative units
- Provide financial guidance and training to non-financial managers
- Support institutional initiatives and special projects as assigned
Required Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration
- CPA or other relevant professional certification
- Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive accounting experience
- Experience with higher education, nonprofit, or governmental accounting
- Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting standards
- Experience with higher education ERP systems (e.g., Jenzabar)
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
- Effective leadership and staff development skills
- Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to diverse audiences
- High level of integrity and professionalism
Work Environment & Physical Demands
- Office environment with extended periods of sitting and computer use
- May require additional hours during fiscal year-end, audits, or reporting deadlines
Application Instructions
Please send your resume and cover letter to HR at jtsaresumes@jtsa.edu with the job title in the subject line. In the body of the email, please mention that you found the job on our website.
