Controller, Accounting, Accounting Manager

Description

The Controller is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day accounting operations of the Duluth Transit Authority (DTA), ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial records, and providing timely financial reporting to support organizational decision-making. The Controller supervises the Payroll Accountant and Accounting Clerk and works closely with the CFO on budgeting, audit coordination, and regulatory compliance. Work is performed in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and applicable federal and state requirements.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Financial Reporting

• Prepare accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for management and the CFO.
• Monitor actual expenditures against the approved budget and report variances with analysis.
• Maintain the integrity of the general ledger and ensure all accounts are properly reconciled.

2. Accounting Operations

• Oversee accounts payable and accounts receivable functions performed by accounting staff.
• Review and approve journal entries, reconciliations, and other accounting transactions.
• Ensure proper coding of transactions to general ledger accounts and grant/project codes.

3. Payroll Oversight

• Supervise the Payroll Accountant in the accurate and timely processing of payroll.
• Ensure payroll compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

4. Audit Coordination

• Serve as the primary point of contact for external auditors.
• Prepare and organize supporting documentation and schedules required for the annual audit.
• Implement audit recommendations and ensure findings are addressed in a timely manner.

5. Regulatory Compliance & Reporting

• Prepare and submit required reports to MnDOT, WisDOT, and the National Transit Database (NTD).
• Ensure compliance with applicable federal transit regulations and reporting requirements.

6. Staff Supervision

• Directly supervise the Payroll Accountant and Accounting Clerk.
• Provide coaching, performance feedback, and professional development support.
• Assign and review work to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and adherence to established procedures.

7. Other Duties

• Identify and recommend improvements to accounting processes and internal controls.
• Assist the CFO with special projects, analysis, and other duties as assigned.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of four (4) years of progressive accounting experience, with at least one (1) year in a supervisory or lead role.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting principles.
• Proficiency with accounting software required; experience with Microsoft Dynamics preferred.
• Experience with public sector, transit, or grant accounting a plus.
• Familiarity with MnDOT, WisDOT, or NTD reporting a plus.
• CPA or CPA candidate preferred.
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage competing priorities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

FRINGE BENEFITS:

• Competitive Salary
• Training and Career Development Opportunities
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account (FSA)
• Health insurance-full paid monthly premiums for employee and family
• Dental Insurance-fully paid monthly premiums for employee and family
• Vision Insurance-fully paid monthly premiums for employee and family
• $500 health insurance deductible per person annually, low max out of pocket spend
• Life insurance-fully paid monthly premiums for employee
• Paid vacation
• Paid sick time
• Pension-company contribution of 12%
• Access to Minnesota Deferred Compensation Plan
• Free bus passes for employee and immediate family

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to sit for an extended period of time.
• Must have manual dexterity to operate a computer and other office equipment.
• Must be able to pick up and carry 25 lbs.
• Must be able to drive an automobile.

The physical requirements listed in this section include, but are not necessarily limited to, the motor/physical abilities and skills required of this position to successfully undertake the essential duties and responsibilities of this position. In accordance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), reasonable accommodation may be made to empower individuals with disabilities to undertake the essential duties and responsibilities of the position.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.

To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who…