Full Time Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wilson College is seeking a detail-oriented and collaborative professional to serve as its Controller. This is an exciting opportunity for a financial leader who values accuracy, transparency, and mission-driven work to play a key role in supporting the College’s financial health and long-term sustainability.

The Controller oversees the day-to-day financial transactions of the Business Office, ensuring the integrity of the College’s financial systems and compliance with applicable accounting standards. This role is instrumental in maintaining accurate financial records, strengthening internal processes, and supporting informed decision-making across the institution.

Reporting to the Associate Vice President for Finance & Administration, the Controller provides leadership in both financial reporting and transactional operations. The successful candidate will partner closely with colleagues across campus to promote fiscal responsibility, enhance transparency, and ensure effective stewardship of College resources.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Accounting Operations

• Oversee all general ledger functions, including journal entries, reconciliations, and month-end and year-end close processes
• Ensure accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of all financial transactions and records

Financial Reporting & Audit

• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and supporting schedules
• Coordinate and manage the annual external audit, including preparation of audit workpapers and required documentation
• Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and applicable FASB standards
• Support the Associate Vice President for Finance & Administration in preparing financial reports and analyses for senior leadership and the Board of Trustees

Internal Controls & Compliance

• Develop, implement, and monitor internal controls in collaboration with the Associate Vice President for Finance & Administration to safeguard College assets
• Establish and maintain financial policies and procedures
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations, including restricted funds and grant accounting

Budgeting & Financial Planning

• Assist in the development of the College’s annual operating and capital budgets
• Support long-range financial planning efforts through data analysis and reporting

Leadership & Collaboration

• Provide clear and accessible financial information to non-financial stakeholders across campus
• Collaborate with departments to support sound financial practices and compliance

COMPETENCIES:

• Financial Expertise: Demonstrates advanced knowledge of accounting principles (GAAP) and financial reporting standards; ensures accuracy, integrity, and compliance in all financial operations.
• Analytical Thinking: Applies critical thinking and strong analytical skills to interpret financial data, identify trends, and support sound decision-making.
• Attention to Detail: Maintains a high level of accuracy in financial records, reconciliations, and reporting; identifies and resolves discrepancies proactively.
• Integrity and Ethical Judgment: Exercises sound judgment, maintains confidentiality, and upholds the highest ethical standards in the stewardship of institutional resources.
• Leadership and Staff Development: Effectively supervises, mentors, and develops staff; fosters accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the Business Office.
• Communication Skills: Communicates complex financial information clearly and effectively to both financial and non-financial stakeholders, including senior leadership.
• Organizational and Time Management: Manages multiple priorities and deadlines, particularly during audit and fiscal year-end cycles; ensures timely completion of all financial processes.
• Collaboration and Service Orientation: Works effectively across departments; provides responsive, solutions-oriented support to campus partners while balancing compliance requirements.
• Technical Proficiency: Demonstrates proficiency with financial systems (ERP), reporting tools, and advanced Excel functions to support efficient operations and reporting.
• Problem Solving and Continuous Improvement: Identifies process inefficiencies and implements improvements to strengthen internal controls, enhance accuracy, and increase operational effectiveness.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation strongly preferred
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive accounting experience
• Experience in higher education, nonprofit, or similarly complex organizations preferred
• Demonstrated experience with financial reporting, audits, and internal controls
• Experience with ERP systems (e.g., Banner, Colleague, or similar)
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial systems

Or an equivalent combination of education and experience

POSITION TYPE AND EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:

• This is a full-time position with regular office hours, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Work schedules may vary based on departmental and institutional needs. Flexibility is essential, and employees may be asked to adjust their schedule to meet operational needs.
• Exempt employees are expected to work the hours necessary to fulfill job.
• Evening and weekend work may be required.

At Wilson College, we value our employees and are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and professional growth. Full-time, on-site employees enjoy:

• Robust Health Benefits: Including medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus college-paid basic life and long-term disability insurance.

• Spending Account Options: Access to employee-funded Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for both healthcare and dependent care needs.

• Retirement Planning: A Defined Contribution Retirement Plan with TIAA to help you plan for the future.

• Educational Benefits: Tuition remission for employees and their families for undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, as well as access to Tuition Exchange scholarships through a national consortium of colleges.

Wilson fosters a supportive, collegial work environment that prioritizes work-life balance. Employees benefit from:

• Flexible dining options and free access to our on-campus fitness center.

• An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential support and resources.

As a qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit employer, Wilson College employees may also be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.