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University Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NCSU

Assistant Payroll Director

Raleigh, NC · Hybrid

The University Controller's Office works to advance NC State as a leader in fiscal accountability and responsibility through partnerships with our campus community, strong relationships with our peer ...

Rutgers University

Accounting Manager II

Piscataway, NJ · On-site

$94K/yr

Reporting to a Senior Manager in the University Controller's Office, this position is responsible for the management and supervision of daily operations and performance of an accounting/financial ...

University of Bridgeport

Controller

Bridgeport, CT · On-site

The mission of The University of Bridgeport is to promote academic excellence, personal ... The Controller reports to the Vice President of Finance/CFO and is responsible for maintaining the ...

University Health

Controller

Kansas City, MO · On-site

If you are a current University Health or University Health Physicians employee and wish to be ... Controller 101 Truman Medical Center Job Location Northpoint, University Health Truman Medical ...

Lehigh University

$136K - $165K/yr

Associate Controller Job no: 503897 Work type: Exempt Staff Full-time Location: Partial Remote ... Oversee the University's rolling inventory control processes and maintain the integrity of asset ...

Bethel University

Financial Aid Counselor

Mckenzie, TN · On-site

$30K - $40K/yr

Under the general direction of the University Controller. Under the direct supervision of the Director of University Financial Aid. The employee is responsible for 1 shift, 8 hours/day, 5 days/week.

South Dakota State University

Controller

Brookings, SD · On-site

$111K/yr

Posting Details Posting Details Logo Institution South Dakota State University Working Title Controller Posting Number NFE03119P Department SDSU-Accounting Office-Controller Physical Location of ...

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University Controller information

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

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 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 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 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.
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Infographic showing various University Controller job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, and 35% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Assistant Payroll Director

Assistant Payroll Director

NCSU

Raleigh, NC • Hybrid

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

North Carolina State University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

407th of 553 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Information
Posting Number PG194698EP Internal Recruitment No Working Title Assistant Payroll Director Anticipated Hiring Range $120,000 - $123,000 Work Schedule Core Business Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm (This position is eligible for a flexible work arrangement to include hybrid remote work). Job Location Raleigh, NC Department University Controller's Office About the Department
The University Controller's Office is a department within the Finance Division. The office has business units covering the following areas: general accounting, cash services, asset management, financial reporting, payroll, accounts payable, debt, and the university's tax compliance.
The University Controller's Office works to advance NC State as a leader in fiscal accountability and responsibility through partnerships with our campus community, strong relationships with our peer groups, improvements in the University's financial systems and internal controls, and efficient and effective business operations. The office continues to focus on collaborative efforts and on providing fiscal leadership, oversight, accounting, reporting, training, and outreach services that exemplify the highest standards of quality, performance, and service. Having professional staff and managers with imagination, knowledge, and people skills is paramount in the successful implementation of these goals.
The University Controller's Office is responsible for fiscal accountability, accuracy, and reporting of the university with a net position of approximately $2.0 billion, including timely and accurate payment of monthly and biweekly wages to over 18,000 staff, faculty, student workers, and temporary employees, over 117,000 vendor payments annually, and management of a $550 million external debt portfolio.
The University Payroll section of the University Controller's Office is responsible for 1) timely and accurate payment of wages to approximately 10,000 monthly and 8,000 biweekly staff, faculty, undergraduate and graduate student workers, postdocs, foreign national, and temporary employees with an annual payroll of over $1.3 billion; 2) proper deduction, monthly plan reconciliation and vendor payment of mandatory, voluntary and statutory (garnishment) deduction plans, including the employer's matching contributions for retirement and health insurance; and 3) compliance for, payment to, and proper reporting of wages and tax withholdings to the federal government and approximately 35 states and territories.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Proposition and learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.

What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
The Assistant Payroll Director serves as a trusted partner to the Payroll Director, helping lead payroll operations for one of the state's largest and most complex employers. This position provides leadership across payroll administration, tax compliance, financial oversight, systems management, and staff development, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time while maintaining compliance with evolving regulations. In this role you will play a critical part in supporting business continuity, guiding strategic payroll initiatives, and delivering reliable payroll services to the university community.
Key Responsibilities fall within the following four functional areas.

Leadership & Personnel Management
  • Supervise the Payroll Tax Manager, Foreign National Tax Manager, and broader payroll staff, including training, performance management, and professional development.
  • Serve as a delegate for the Payroll Director, providing leadership for payroll operations, strategic planning, and business continuity efforts.
  • Serve as the primary contact for internal, external, and state auditors.

Financial Oversight & Compliance
  • Ensure accurate, timely, and compliant payroll-related financial transactions, including payments to tax agencies, retirement systems, and benefit providers, year-end reconciliation activities, payroll and benefit expense distribution, and review of salary encumbrances.
  • Review payroll tax documentation, resolve complex tax-related issues, and support responses to W-2 inquiries.
  • Maintain internal controls, separation of duties, and documentation standards for payroll transactions and adjustments.

Operational Strategy, Systems & Reporting
  • Lead payroll-related system upgrades, testing, documentation, and implementation activities while partnering with technical teams to support payroll resiliency, disaster recovery, and business continuity initiatives.
  • Participate in governance and planning activities related to HR and payroll systems.
  • Compile, analyze, and report payroll performance metrics and key performance indicators.

Problem Resolution & Communication
  • Investigate payroll discrepancies, coordinate corrective actions, and manage repayment and collection processes when necessary.
  • Advise university departments on payroll regulations, tax requirements, and implementation of legislative or policy changes.
  • Coordinate payroll-related communications through websites, listservs, mass communications, and other university channels.

A payroll leader who enjoys managing complex operations, interpreting evolving regulations, developing staff, and driving continuous improvement in a large and dynamic organization, we encourage you to apply.
Other Responsibilities
In addition to the core responsibilities of this role, there will  be occasional opportunities to participate in special projects. 
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
Requires post-baccalaureate credentials with 7+ years of relevant experience, including or exceeded by 2+ years of supervisory experience; a bachelor's degree with 5+ years of experience, including or exceeded by 1-2 years of supervisory experience, may be substituted for the advanced qualifications on an exceptional basis.
Other Required Qualifications
n/a
Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge of federal and state employment laws and payroll tax regulations, including Internal Revenue Code requirements.
  • Payroll administration in a large, complex organization with multiple funding sources, employing entities, foreign national payments, and multistate payroll considerations.
  • Customer service experience involving consultation, issue resolution, and professional written communication with diverse stakeholders.
  • Use of PeopleSoft Query, SQL, or similar tools to analyze, interpret, and report payroll, financial, or HR data.
  • Ability to adapt to changing regulations, systems, priorities, and organizational needs while maintaining service quality and compliance.
  • Experience handling confidential employee and financial information while exercising sound judgment and discretion.
Required License(s) or Certification(s)
N/A
Valid NC Driver's License required No Commercial Driver's License required No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date 06/05/2026 Anticipated Close Date 06/19/2026; if posting is active, we are still accepting and reviewing applications Special Instructions to Applicants
Please provide the following:
Resume
Cover Letter
Contact Information for at least 5 PROFESSIONAL references, 2 of which MUST be current or former direct managers or supervisors.
Use your cover letter to highlight specific examples that demonstrate your experience with complex payroll operations, compliance-related problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration. Focus on how you approach accuracy, deadlines, and process improvement in a high-volume environment.
Position Details
Position Number 00110382 Position Type EPS/SAAO Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week) 1.0 Appointment 12 Month Recurring Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather Mandatory - Adverse Weather Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events Mandatory - Fire/Explosions, Mandatory - Medical Emergencies, Mandatory - Hazardous Material Incidents, Mandatory - Transportation Accidents, Mandatory - Evacuations/Natural Hazards, Mandatory - Utilities/Infrastructure Failure, Mandatory - Threats of Violence/Terrorism/Interpersonal Emergencies Department ID 496001 - University Controller EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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About North Carolina State University

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North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1887

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