Assistant Controller

The Finance Department at Whittier College is seeking an Assistant Controller.

The Assistant Controller supports the financial integrity and fiscal operations of the College by overseeing day-to-day accounting functions, ensuring compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and managing the accuracy of reported financial results. This role is pivotal in maintaining the general ledger, coordinating annual external audits, and providing strategic financial analysis to support decision-making within the unique landscape of higher education.

Hours : Varies

Exempt Status : Exempt

Full Time / Part Time status : Full Time, 12 months

Salary Range : $80,000-$90,000 annually; Salary will commensurate with experience, skills, and knowledge.

Reports to : College Controller, AVP of Finance

Location / Department : Whittier College / Finance

Position Duties and Responsibilities

Essential Functions of the Job

35% - Financial Reporting & General Ledger Management : Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements. Oversee the month-end and year-end close process, including complex reconciliations, journal entry reviews, and maintenance of the Chart of Accounts.

25% - Audit & Compliance Coordination : Lead the preparation for the annual external financial audit by coordinating audit schedules and collaborating with auditors. Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, including the preparation of IRS Form 990, UBIT (unrelated business income tax) returns, and grant reporting.

20% - Supervisory & Operational Oversight : Directly supervise business office staff (e.g., Accounts Payable, Payroll, or Student Accounts). Review operational data for accuracy and ensure internal controls are robust and effective in preventing errors.

10% - Budgeting & Financial Analysis : Assist in the development and monitoring of departmental budgets. Conduct variance analysis, trend forecasting, and financial modeling to provide actionable insights for senior leadership.

10% - Systems Administration & Special Projects : Act as a core administrator for the College’s ERP / financial systems (e.g., Oracle, Sage, or Colleague). Manage special projects such as system implementations or policy updates to enhance operational efficiency.

Non-essential Functions of the Job

None identified at this time.

Position Specifications and Requirements

• Advanced Accounting Knowledge : Thorough understanding of GAAP, fund accounting principles, and financial reporting standards specific to non-profit higher education.
• Analytical Skills : Proven ability to interpret complex data and present clear insights to diverse stakeholders.
• Communication : Strong verbal and written communication skills for explaining complex financial transactions and collaborating with campus departments.
• Technical Proficiency : Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel and experience with automated accounting systems / ERP software.
• Confidentiality & Integrity : Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive financial information with a high degree of confidentiality and professional judgment.

Minimum Qualifications

Education : Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.

Experience : 5+ years of progressive experience in accounting or financial management.

Supervisory Experience : At least 2 years of experience managing or leading professional staff.

Preferred Qualifications

Certifications : Active Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license or Certified Management Accountant (CMA).

Advanced Degree : Master of Business Administration (MBA) or Master’s in Accounting.

Higher Education Experience : Previous experience in a liberal arts college or university setting.

System Knowledge : Direct experience with higher education ERP systems (e.g., Ellucian Colleague, Banner, or Oracle Cloud).