Description

Lowell Observatory seeks applications for the full-time Controller position. The Controller is integral to the efficiency and effectiveness of Lowell Observatory’s Business Office. The Controller is a hands-on position which handles the day-to-day accounting activities and supervises the Accounts Payable (AP), Purchasing and Cash functions of the Observatory. The Controller reports to the Chief Financial Officer.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Responsible for maintaining the integrity of the general ledger and subsidiary ledgers
• Maintains bank accounts by monitoring daily deposits and payments, as well as performing monthly bank reconciliations
• Perform short-term cash flow forecasts
• Monitor visitor center sales by ensuring cash is deposited and managing credit card merchant accounts. Track and follow-up on discrepancies
• Works with the Philanthropy department to ensure accurate recording of contributions, pledges and other more complex gifts
• Support the annual budget process by gathering and organizing data for a $18M budget
• Monthly journal entries and reconciliations to maintain accuracy of general ledger records
• Monthly Allocations of company indirect costs
• Assist with preparation of financial statements as needed
• Review invoices for accuracy, completeness, and consistency (including entries for Observatory credit cards) as entered into accounts payable and assist accounts payable with preparation and execution of bi-weekly payment run
• Serve as Administrator for company credit card program.
• Prepare transaction privilege tax returns monthly for payment of state and city use tax
• Maintenance of fixed asset records in the accounting software, including recording new acquisitions and disposals as they occur. Fixed asset inventories are to occur at least once every two years.
• Participate in audits, including preparing schedules for assigned general ledger accounts and assisting external auditors with their requests as needed
• Assist Human Resources with the Annual Workers Compensation Audit
• Manage collection of vendor Certificates of Insurance (COIs) using Certificial or other chosen programs
• Supervise accounts payable with annual preparation and distribution of 1099-MISC forms
• Review requests and issue purchase orders as needed.
• Safeguard assets by establishing, reviewing, and monitoring internal controls
• Maintain the accounting software, including managing AP automation software
• Maintain Business Office page of internal employee website.
• Prioritize assignments/projects and multi-task within restricted time constraints
• Supervise personnel performing staff accounting, accounts payable and purchasing functions
• Supervisor of staff accountant, accounts payable and payroll staff
• All other duties as assigned

Requirements

KNOWLEDGE/SKILL

• Knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles, especially those pertaining to not-for-profit accounting
• Knowledge of Federal grant compliance issues and Uniformed Guidance cost principles
• Ability to exercise good judgement and integrity with sensitive information
• Advanced skills using Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and Word
• Experience with accounting software databases
• Working knowledge of Blackbaud Financial Edge software highly desirable as well as how it works with Blackbaud Raiser’s Edge
• Collaborative, innovative, flexible, and adept at building relationships across the organization working effectively and professionally with departments, agencies, and personnel of diverse backgrounds
• High attention to detail
• Self-motivated, able to work with little supervision

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Business Management with a concentration in accounting is required. Non-profit experience required. CPA or MBA preferred. Five years’ experience as a Senior Accountant or Controller is preferred. Satisfactory review of a current Credit Check will be required for the candidate selected for this position.

WORKING CONDITIONS

This position primarily involves working at a computer for extended periods, requiring frequent sitting with occasional standing and movement. It also involves regular verbal communication, including active listening and speaking, in both individual and group settings. Occasional lifting with assistance (up to 25lbs). Walking on our hilly campus at 7000ft elevation, sometimes over uneven terrain.

The working conditions described here represent those an employee may encounter while performing essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.