Controller, Accounting, Financial Reporting

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.

• 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

• 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

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.

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.…