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Church Financial Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

This role will be responsible for monitoring various financial aspects of the Ministry by ... a church employee includes being considered a spiritual leader in the church. • Provide ...

Controller

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

Luther is the largest seminary of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. We also educate ... In addition to core financial responsibilities, the Controller provides oversight of human ...

The Controller will own the end-to-end accounting lifecycle - including financial close, reporting ... of the church at the heart of its brand. We are driven to consistently enhance the customer ...

... financial engine of the church running - processing our giving, paying our bills, and maintaining clean, audit-ready records. You'll work on-site, partnering with our Controller and Central Business ...

... the daily financial engine of the church running -- processing our giving, paying our bills, and maintaining clean, audit-ready records. You'll work on-site, partnering with our Controller and ...

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Church Financial Controller information

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$39.5K

$111.1K

$158K

How much do church financial controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for church financial controller in the United States is $111,143.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,500.00 and $129,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some unique challenges a Church Financial Controller might face compared to controllers in other organizations?

A Church Financial Controller often manages diverse funding sources such as tithes, donations, and grants, requiring keen attention to donor restrictions and transparency. Unlike corporate environments, churches may have limited staff or rely on volunteers, so controllers frequently provide training and oversight in financial best practices. Additionally, maintaining compliance with both nonprofit accounting standards and denominational guidelines can be complex, making strong organizational and communication skills essential.

What does a Church Financial Controller do?

A Church Financial Controller is responsible for managing the financial operations of a church or religious organization. Their duties typically include overseeing accounting and bookkeeping, preparing financial statements, managing budgets, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and safeguarding the church’s assets. They may also supervise staff, handle payroll, and coordinate with external auditors. The role is crucial for maintaining financial transparency and supporting the church's mission through effective stewardship of resources.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Church Financial Controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Church Financial Controller, you need strong accounting expertise, financial analysis skills, and a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance, often accompanied by a CPA qualification. Familiarity with accounting software like QuickBooks, church management systems, and compliance with nonprofit financial regulations is typically required. Integrity, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing sensitive financial information and working with church leadership. These skills ensure transparent, accurate stewardship of church finances and foster trust within the organization and its community.

What is the difference between Church Financial Controller vs Church Bookkeeper?

AspectChurch Financial ControllerChurch Bookkeeper
CredentialsAccounting certifications (e.g., CPA), financial management experienceBasic bookkeeping skills, often no formal certification
ResponsibilitiesOversees financial reporting, budgeting, internal controlsHandles day-to-day transaction recording, invoicing
Work EnvironmentWorks closely with church leadership on financial strategyFocuses on recording and maintaining financial records

The Church Financial Controller typically has more advanced financial credentials and oversees broader financial functions, including reporting and budgeting. The Church Bookkeeper handles routine recording tasks. While both roles are essential for church finance management, the Controller has a higher level of responsibility and expertise.

More about Church Financial Controller jobs
What cities are hiring for Church Financial Controller jobs? Cities with the most Church Financial Controller job openings:
What states have the most Church Financial Controller jobs? States with the most job openings for Church Financial Controller jobs include:
Infographic showing various Church Financial Controller job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $111,143 per year, or $53.4 per hour.
Controller/Accounting Manager

Controller/Accounting Manager

St Lukes United Methodist Church

Houston, TX • On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Mission of the Position:
St. Luke's United Methodist Church is seeking a highly skilled and purpose-driven Controller / Accounting Manager to steward the financial operations of our church and affiliated ministries. This is more than an accounting role-it's an opportunity to use your expertise to support a vibrant, growing faith community and the ministries that serve it.
Reporting to the Director of Finance and Administration, this role plays a critical leadership function in ensuring financial integrity, operational excellence, and wise stewardship of resources that directly impact lives.
Salary: $90,000 - $100,000
What You'll Do: Lead Core Accounting Operations
  • Own and execute the full month-end close process across multiple entities
  • Prepare accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports
  • Maintain the general ledger, including journal entries and reconciliations
  • Ensure compliance with GAAP standards and internal policies
  • Manage fixed assets, allocations, and inter company transactions
Oversee A/P & Payroll Functions
  • Supervise Accounts Payable and Payroll processes with strong internal controls
  • Review invoices, payroll, and credit card transactions for accuracy and compliance
  • Manage ACH payments, wire transfers, and Positive Pay processes
  • Oversee 1099 preparation and IRS compliance
  • Lead and develop A/P and Payroll team members
Own the Audit Process
  • Serve as the primary contact for external auditors
  • Lead the full audit lifecycle across church and foundation entities
  • Prepare key audit schedules, documentation, and financial statements
  • Coordinate governance and compliance materials
Drive Budgeting & Financial Strategy
  • Lead the annual budget process from planning through presentation
  • Partner with ministry leaders on budget-to-actual analysis
  • Provide insights and reporting to committees and leadership
Support Governance & Compliance
  • Maintain financial policies, procedures, and internal controls
  • Assist with Form 990 preparation for foundation entities
  • Participate in committees and boards as a financial advisor

Requirements
Experience & Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance (required)
  • CPA strongly preferred
  • 7+ years of accounting/finance experience
  • 3-5 years of leadership or supervisory experience
  • Nonprofit or church accounting experience (highly preferred)
Technical Skills
  • Advanced Excel skills (Pivot Tables required)
  • Experience with systems like Sage Intacct, Paylocity, Procare, or The Rock (preferred)
Core Strengths
  • Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities
  • Excellent communicator-able to translate financial data into clear insights
  • Strategic thinker with a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset
  • High integrity and commitment to accountability
Faith & Culture Fit
  • A committed follower of Jesus aligned with the mission of St. Luke's
  • Comfortable integrating faith and work in a ministry environment
  • Collaborative, diplomatic, and steady under pressure

Salary Description
$90,000-$100,000