Controller - Nonprofit Job Minneapolis area,Minnesota USA,Accounting

Serve Minnesota is seeking an experienced and strategic Controller to oversee our accounting operations and financial planning functions. This is a key leadership role responsible for ensuring financial accuracy, grant compliance, and robust forecasting to support data‑driven decision‑making. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in nonprofit accounting, experience with federal grant management, and a proactive, analytical mindset.

Reporting to the Vice President of Finance, the Controller will lead financial reporting, manage payroll processes, maintain compliance with funders and regulators, and serve as the organization’s primary liaison with external auditors. This position will also supervise the Staff Accountant and play a lead role in the budgeting and forecasting process.

Required to be in the office a minimum of 2 days per week.

Essential Job Functions

Lead monthly and quarterly financial close processes; prepare timely and accurate financial statements for leadership and the Board.

Provide financial planning and analysis (FP&A), including budgeting, forecasting, cash flow modeling, and variance analysis.

Oversee federal grant reporting and ensure compliance with funder and regulatory requirements.

Supervise and approve payroll processing, check disbursements, and journal entries.

Maintain general and subsidiary ledgers in accordance with GAAP and nonprofit fund accounting standards.

Monitor and report on budget-to-actual performance across programs and projects.

Serve as the primary contact for the annual audit; prepare schedules and work papers, respond to auditor inquiries, and coordinate timelines.

Manage financial relationships with external vendors and insurance providers.

Guide and support the Staff Accountant, promoting development and efficiency.

Ensure procurement and receivables processes align with internal policies and best practices.

Contribute to system improvements and internal control enhancements.

Job Qualifications Minimum

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting and/or experience required
Minimum of 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role required
Advanced Excel skills (e.g., pivot tables, complex formulas, financial models)
Experience managing budgets and financial forecasting
Strong proficiency with accounting software and Microsoft Excel
Experience working directly with external auditors

Preferred

Prior experience in public accounting preferred
Solid foundation in nonprofit accounting and grant compliance
Familiarity with federal grants and Uniform Guidance
Preferred candidates will have experience working effectively with a wide range of individuals and communities reflective of those served in Minnesota.

What We Offer

Competitive salary range of $95,000-$115,000 depending on experience.
Comprehensive benefits package including 403b retirement plan
Hybrid work environment with flexibility
Meaningful work with a mission‑driven team
Opportunities for professional development and advancement
A welcoming culture of learning and collaboration

About Serve Minnesota

Serve Minnesota is a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing critical local challenges through service and innovation. We work in partnership with Ameri Corps and local nonprofits, government agencies, and educational institutions to deliver impactful programming across the state. Serve Minnesota is dedicated to maintaining a respectful, professional, and welcoming workplace, united by a common commitment to our mission.

Ameri Corps, Peace Corps, and other national service alumni are encouraged to apply.

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