1

University Controller Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

University Controller information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$19.8K

$70.8K

$134.1K

How much do university controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for university controller in Atlanta, GA is $70,760.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,994.00 and $80,683.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a university controller?

A University Controller is a senior financial officer responsible for overseeing the accounting, financial reporting, and internal control functions at a university or college. They ensure compliance with financial regulations, manage budgets, prepare financial statements, and support audits. The Controller works closely with other university leaders to provide financial insights and ensure the institution's fiscal health. Their role is vital in maintaining transparency and accountability in the university's financial operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a university controller?

To thrive as a University Controller, you need a solid background in accounting, financial management, and compliance, typically supported by a CPA or similar certification and several years of relevant experience. Expertise in ERP systems (such as Banner or PeopleSoft), financial reporting software, and familiarity with higher education financial regulations are essential. Exceptional analytical skills, attention to detail, and strong leadership and communication abilities help manage teams and collaborate with various university departments. These competencies ensure accurate financial oversight, regulatory compliance, and effective stewardship of university resources.

What are some common challenges faced by a university controller in managing financial compliance across multiple departments?

A University Controller often faces the challenge of ensuring consistent financial compliance across various academic and administrative departments, each with unique funding sources, reporting requirements, and spending practices. Coordinating and standardizing financial policies, while accommodating departmental needs and adhering to federal, state, and grant regulations, requires effective communication and strong internal controls. Additionally, Controllers must regularly provide training and support to department staff to uphold best practices and reduce the risk of errors or non-compliance.

What is the difference between University Controller vs Financial Analyst?

AspectUniversity ControllerFinancial Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires a CPA or equivalent accounting certificationOften requires a bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or related field; CPA is a plus
Work EnvironmentWorks within university finance departments, managing budgets and financial reportingWorks in corporate or financial firms analyzing data to guide investment or business decisions
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, government, non-profitsCorporations, investment firms, consulting agencies

The University Controller and Financial Analyst roles both require strong financial knowledge, but the Controller focuses on managing university finances, compliance, and reporting, while the Financial Analyst analyzes data to support investment and business strategies. The Controller typically holds accounting certifications and works within educational institutions, whereas the Analyst often has a finance background and works in corporate settings.

What are popular job titles related to University Controller jobs in Atlanta, GA?

For University Controller jobs in Atlanta, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching University Controller jobs in Atlanta, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for University Controller jobs in Atlanta, GA are:

Infographic showing various University Controller job openings in Atlanta, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 86% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $70,760 per year, or $34 per hour.

Director of Accounting - Office of the Controller

Atlanta, GA • On-site


Emory University
Hospitals • 10K+ employees

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 218 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

163rd of 895 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Discover Your Career at Emory University
Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community.
Description
JOB DESCRIPTION:
  • Oversee all aspects of the financial statement external audit, including preparation and review of the financial statements and footnotes and appropriate audit documentation as well as the preparation of compliance audit footnotes, such as the A-133 Single Audit. Serves as Emory's lead contact with our external auditors.
  • Oversees all quarter and year-end financial reporting accounting adjustments
  • Manages preparation of any technical accounting memos, including in response to new financial accounting standards.
  • Oversees general ledger activity, including reviewing and approving requests and changes to general ledger chartfields.
  • Manages the preparation and review of monthly fringe cost reporting and variance analysis, including reviewing monthly entries and account reconciliations.
  • Is responsible for developing and maintaining accounting principles, practices and procedures to ensure accurate and timely financial statements.
  • Manages staff to ensure that work is properly allocated and completed in a timely and accurate manner.
  • Addresses tight deadlines and a multitude of accounting activities including general ledger preparation, financial reporting, year-end audit preparation, board materials preparation, and the support of budget and forecast activities.
  • Interacts with Office of General Counsel, Emory Investment Management, the Controller, chief business officers in schools/units and senior management.
  • Oversees accounting functions, including intercompany accounting, financial reporting, balance sheet management and income statement variance analytics.
  • Ensures an accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and year end close.
  • Ensures the timely reporting of all monthly financial information.
  • Provides staff training, handles personnel issues, and works with each direct report to establish goals and objectives for each year; monitors professional development opportunities and participation.
  • Collaborates with the Controller and Assistant Controller on special projects and process improvements.
  • Responds to inquiries from the VP for Finance/CFO, Controller, and departments regarding financial results and special reporting requests.
  • Ensures that the institution's financial records, under area of responsibility, are maintained in compliance with policies and US GAAP.
  • Responsible for reviewing monthly/quarterly account reconciliations and other documents to ensure compliance.
  • Is involved in validating/designing accounting system suggested changes to ensure accounting requirements continue to be met.
  • Coordinates work related to both internal and external audits in the periodic review of the financial records.
  • Performs related responsibilities as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • A bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance or a related field and seven years of public, non-profit or private industry accounting experience which includes management level experience.
  • Master's degree in Accounting, Finance or related field or CPA preferred.
  • Experience analyzing financial performance and developing financial plans within a higher education or non-profit environment is a plus.
  • Excellent verbal, written, communication and leadership skills.

NOTE: This role will be granted the opportunity to work from home regularly but must be able to commute to Emory University on a flexible weekly schedule based upon business needs. Schedule is based on agreed upon guidelines of department. This role requires residency in the state of GA. Emory reserves the right to change remote work status with notice to employee.
Additional Details
Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).
Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at accessibility@emory.edu or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.


What Emory Healthcare employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom