Position Title: Controller
Department: Finance
Immediate Supervisor’s Position Title: Executive Director of Finance & Operations
FLSA Status: Exempt
Salary Range: $90,000 – $115,000
General Summary of Purpose of Job: Under the direction of the Executive Director of Finance & Operations, the Controller is responsible for overseeing the district’s financial accounting and payroll systems. This position manages the collection and disbursement of district funds, ensures compliance with state and federal reporting requirements, and prepares all required financial reports. The Controller assists with the development and coordination of the district’s annual budget, prepares documentation for the annual audit, and provides financial guidance to support effective decision-making across the district.
Essential Duties:Develops, implements, and maintains the district’s accounting and financial systems in compliance with UFARS, GAAP, and state/federal requirements.
Prepares interim, annual, and special financial reports for district leadership, the Board of Education, and state/federal agencies.
Coordinates the annual audit and fiscal year-end closing process, including reconciliations, accruals, and supporting documentation.
Balances all general ledger accounts and ensures the accuracy and completeness of accounting records.
Manages the collection, deposit, and disbursement of district funds, ensuring accurate reporting and compliance.
Oversees grant and federal program accounting, verifying revenues and expenditures are properly recorded, reported, and claimed.
Facilitates state and federal compliance reporting, including grants, revenues, and aid payment systems (EDRS, SERV, etc.).
Monitors and manages district liabilities, assets, leases, and obligations, ensuring timely payments and compliance.
Provides payroll and accounts payable management, including supervision, coding accuracy, and workflow oversight.
Manages district purchasing and credit card programs, ensuring proper authorization, tracking, and reporting.
Provides cash flow analysis and manages borrowing and investments to safeguard district funds and maximize returns.
Supervises, evaluates, and mentors business office staff, ensuring cross-training, professional development, and consistent operations.
Provides financial guidance, training, and support to administrators, program managers, and staff regarding financial systems and procedures.
Interprets legislative and statutory funding regulations to guide district financial practices and decision-making.
Promotes fiscal integrity, equity, and transparency in all business office operations to support the district’s mission and goals.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: Minimum education and experience required to perform adequately in position could reasonably be attained only by completing the following:
Degree Required: Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Business, Accounting, or related field
Required Work Experience in Addition to Formal Education/Training:
At least three (3) years of progressively responsible professional experience in accounting, auditing, or financial management.
Required Supervisory Experience
PREFERRED EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or another recognized financial credential.
Prior experience in K–12 public school finance, including familiarity with Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) reporting requirements.
Experience supervising accounting/business office staff and coordinating external financial audits.
LICENSE/CERTIFICATION: (Identify licenses/certification required upon hiring:
Valid driver’s license
ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED TO PERFORM THE WORK
Knowledge
Principles and practices of governmental accounting, auditing, and financial reporting.
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) standards.
Uniform Financial Accounting and Reporting Standards (UFARS) and Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) financial reporting requirements.
Federal, state, and local laws and regulations governing public school finance.
Payroll, purchasing, accounts payable/receivable, grant management, and investment practices.
Internal control systems and audit preparation procedures.
Financial management software systems and Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
Skills
Preparing, analyzing, and presenting clear and accurate financial statements and reports.
Budget development, forecasting, and cash flow management.
Supervising, mentoring, and evaluating accounting and business office staff.
Interpreting and applying complex financial regulations and funding requirements.
Organizing, prioritizing, and managing multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.
Communicating financial information clearly to administrators, staff, board members, and community stakeholders.
Training others in the use of financial and payroll systems.
Abilities
Apply sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and uphold high ethical standards in all financial matters.
Ensure compliance with UFARS, GAAP, GASB, and state/federal financial requirements.
Collaborate effectively with administrators, staff, auditors, and external stakeholders.
Adapt to evolving financial systems, reporting requirements, and legislative changes.
Demonstrate cultural competence and equity-focused practices in financial management
Physical Requirements
Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, talk, hear, operate a computer and other office equipment, reach with hands and arms, and must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. The employee is occasionally required to lift and/or move up to and over 20 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.