Controller, Finance & Banking, Financial Compliance

Position: Controller

Company: SC Department of Public Health - Richland County, SC, USA

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The South Carolina Department of Public Health (SC DPH) is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Controller to oversee the agency’s core accounting and federal compliance functions. With over 150 federal grants and a diverse range of funding sources, our financial operations require strong leadership to ensure accuracy, compliance, and efficiency.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a complex financial environment and has a passion for maintaining accountability and financial integrity in public service.

Job duties will include, but are not limited to:

• Ensure Compliance & Financial Integrity – Oversee adherence to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB), Generally Accepted Governmental Accounting Standards (GAGAS), federal grant regulations, and state financial policies.
• Manage Key Accounting Functions – Lead Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, General Ledger, Patient Billing, Cost Accounting, and Grant Reporting.
• Supervise Federal Grant Compliance – Ensure accurate reporting, tracking, and auditing of over 150 federal grants and other funding streams.
• Oversee Financial Transactions & Controls – Maintain financial accuracy, enforce internal controls, and ensure timely payment processing.
• Collaborate with State & Federal Oversight Agencies – Work with the State Treasurer, Comptroller General’s Office, State Auditors, and internal compliance teams to ensure best practices.
• Develop & Train Staff – Lead a high-performing finance team, focusing on succession planning and continuous improvement.

With a large number of federal grants and funding sources, financial accuracy and compliance are critical to keeping SC DPH running effectively. This position ensures accountability, accuracy, and transparency in financial operations that support essential public health programs.

Ready to take the next step? Apply today and contribute to the success of public health initiatives in South Carolina!

A bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business, or a related field and five (5) years' experience as a professional accountant, three (3) of which must have been in an administrative capacity directing/supervising professional accounting, auditing, or finance employees; or an approved equivalency based on education and years of experience.

Extensive knowledge of the principles, theories and practices of accounting, auditing, budgeting, or financial management. Considerable knowledge of state government fiscal and budgeting processes, government accounting methods and procedures. Considerable knowledge of GAAP, GASB, GAGAS, State and Federal regulations. Considerable knowledge of Grants oversight & accountability is required. Ability to communicate (oral and written) effectively and to supervise professional and paraprofessional employees.

Knowledge and skills acquired through formal education and on-the-job training.

CPA, CGFO, or other professional certifications.

Experience in government finance, grants oversight, and internal controls.

Familiarity with State of SC fiscal processes, GAAP, and GASB regulations.

Experience with SCEIS financial data and reporting modules.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

DRIVING RECORD: If this position requires the applicant to possess a valid driver’s license to operate a state vehicle or personal vehicle, any applicant being considered in the final stages of selection for the position will be required to provide a certified copy of a 10-year driving record.

EEO: SC DPH is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employing agency. We are committed to a diverse workforce. SC DPH does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age (40…