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University Controller Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lehigh University

$136.34K - $165.88K/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 ...

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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 NFE03056P Department SDSU-Accounting Office-Controller Physical Location of ...

University of Mary

Controller

Bismarck, ND · On-site

Controller The University of Mary ls seeking an experienced professional to serve in Financial Affairs. The Controller is a senior financial leader responsible for overseeing the university ...

University of Mary

Controller

Bismarck, ND · On-site

Controller The University of Mary ls seeking an experienced professional to serve in Financial Affairs. The Controller is a senior financial leader responsible for overseeing the university ...

Simpson University

Controller

Redding, CA · On-site

Primary duties are responsibility for and processing of the University general ledger and related ... Controller Typical Working Conditions: (Describe environment including exposure to heat, cold ...

Simpson University

Controller

Redding, CA

Primary duties are responsibility for and processing of the University general ledger and related ... Controller Typical Working Conditions: (Describe environment including exposure to heat, cold ...

Cleary University

Assistant Controller

Howell, MI · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Cleary University is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Assistant Controller to join our Finance Team. The Assistant Controller will support the Controller in overseeing the institution ...

Houston Christian University

Controller

Houston, TX · On-site

Exempt Position Summary The Controller provides leadership and hands-on management of the University's accounting operations and financial reporting. This role ensures timely, accurate, and GAAP ...

Cleary University

Assistant Controller

Howell, MI · Hybrid

$70K - $80K/yr

Cleary University is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Assistant Controller to join our Finance Team. The Assistant Controller will support the Controller in overseeing the institution ...

Houston Christian University

Controller

Houston, TX

Exempt Position Summary The Controller provides leadership and hands-on management of the University's accounting operations and financial reporting. This role ensures timely, accurate, and GAAP ...

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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 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 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 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.

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University Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various University Controller job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 19% Full Time, 68% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 67% Physical, and 33% Remote job distribution.
Associate Controller

Associate Controller

Lehigh University

On-site, Remote

$136.34K - $165.88K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 2 days ago

Lehigh University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 529 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Associate Controller
Job no: 503897
Work type: Exempt Staff Full-time
Location: Partial Remote, Bethlehem
Categories: Finance/Accounting
The Associate Controller provides strategic leadership for the Controller's Office and serves as deputy to the Controller. This role oversees key financial reporting operations, including endowments, capital assets, Banner Finance, and shared services. The position ensures GAAP and regulatory compliance, drives continuous process improvements, manages complex audits, and provides financial systems support and guidance to the University community.
Position Number: S88290
This position is a Grade: 13 - 40 with an approximate salary range of $136,340 - $165,880 and is subject to change based on experience, skills and qualifications.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead the preparation, review, and timely delivery of consolidated financial statements, quarterly/annual reports, and external surveys
  • Monitor evolving accounting standards (GAAP) and regulatory guidance, updating institutional policies and advising University leadership accordingly
  • Oversee financial reporting for affiliated entities, including Lehigh University Properties (LUP/SRI)
  • Oversee monthly investment accounting, custodian reconciliations, and complex endowment unitization processes
  • Manage the establishment of new endowment funds and coordinate financial reporting to donors and internal stakeholders.
  • Provide oversight for capital assets, buildings, equipment, and real estate transactions
  • Oversee the University's rolling inventory control processes and maintain the integrity of asset records within Banner Finance
  • Maintain the integrity of the Banner Finance chart of accounts, data structures, and financial monitoring (including deficit management and exception reporting)
  • Design, develop, and review specialized financial reports, data exports, and analytics to support campus partners
  • Direct, mentor, and develop assigned financial staff, including the Shared Services Supervisor and Financial Analysts
  • Oversee Shared Services operations, including Banner index creation, security access administration, and data governance
  • Act as senior deputy to the Controller, assisting with departmental prioritization, strategic planning, and operational transitions

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, a related field or the equivalent combination of education and experience; Master's Degree preferred
  • Eight or more years related work experience
  • CPA or equivalent professional certification required
  • Demonstrated expertise in GAAP financial reporting, endowment accounting, and capital asset management
  • Hands-on experience with ERP financial systems, with Banner Finance experience highly regarded at Lehigh
  • Proven ability to lead, develop, and mentor accounting teams through operational and transformational change
  • Track record of engaging campus stakeholders on accounting policy, compliance, and financial stewardship

Why Lehigh
Lehigh University combines the academic ambition of a research institution with a close-knit campus culture in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. As a member of the University's administrative leadership, you'll benefit from above-market superannuation contributions, generous leave provisions, and robust professional development support including tuition benefits that reflect Lehigh's genuine commitment to lifelong learning.
Lehigh University offers a comprehensive and family friendly benefits package which includes but is not limited to Health Care, Retirement and Educational benefits. Information can be found on our website.
Lehigh University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate. We are committed to a culturally and intellectually diverse community and we seek qualified candidates to contribute to the university's mission.
Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing an accommodation for any part of the interview or hiring process may contact Lehigh's Accommodations Specialist.
Special Considerations
  • The duties of this position may allow the employee to work partially remote as deemed appropriate by their supervisor
  • This position has fiscal or financial responsibilities other than employee expense activity, such as processing or approving transactions; monitoring or preparing budgets; or generating income for University

Successful completion of standard background checks including but not limited to: social security verification, education verification, national criminal background checks, motor vehicle checks, PATCH, FBI fingerprinting, Child Abuse Clearance and credit history based upon the requirements of the position.
Only complete applications will be considered therefore please complete the application in its entirety. Once the posting is removed from the website applications may no longer be allowed to be completed.
Advertised: May 27, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:
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