Assistant Controller

The City of Oakland is an equal opportunity employer that values workforce diversity, inclusion, and equity. Oakland has a long history of activism around issues of justice and equity. Both oppression and this resistance to oppression have shaped the City’s historical roots and the lives of its residents to this day. As public servants in one of the most diverse cities in the nation, we strive to develop employees who understand the harm and impacts of systemic inequity to create lasting, meaningful outcomes for everyone.

Oakland strives to establish an environment that embraces the richness of culture, community, and individuality of employees.

The Finance Department’s Controller Bureau plays a critical role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and excellence in the City’s financial management and reporting. It supports informed decision-making by City leadership, elected officials, and departments by providing reliable financial data that guides budgeting, policy development, and long‑term fiscal planning. By promoting strong financial stewardship and accountability, the Controller Bureau helps maintain public trust and ensures taxpayer dollars are invested responsibly.

As an Assistant Controller, you will oversee Accounts Payable operations, support the City’s annual financial reporting and external audit, and help ensure compliance with grant and single audit requirements. You will have an opportunity to work alongside experienced finance professionals and gain broad exposure to municipal accounting, reporting, and compliance. In this role, you will also have a chance to develop leadership and technical expertise in a collaborative environment that values innovation, continuous learning, and professional growth.

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• An expert in governmental accounting principles: You will need to show a solid understanding of GAAP/GASB, financial reporting, and internal controls.
• Analytical and detail‑oriented: You will be expected to review complex financial data, identify discrepancies, and ensure accuracy and compliance in reporting.
• Dedicated to process improvement: You will play a key role in continuously looking for ways to streamline procedures, enhance efficiency, and strengthen internal controls.
• A collaborative leader: You will supervise, mentor, and develop a small team who work together to ensure strong internal controls, audit readiness, and compliant financial reporting, so it’s important to foster a positive and inclusive team culture.
• An excellent communicator: You will need to clearly communicate financial concepts to non‑financial audiences and work effectively across departments and with external auditors.
• Adaptable: You will be expected to effectively manage multiple priorities and adjust to evolving deadlines, systems, and reporting requirements.
• Ethical and accountable: You will be expected to demonstrate integrity, sound judgment, and a commitment to transparency in public financial management.

• Supervising and overseeing daily accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, bank statement reconciliation, general ledger posting, chart of account maintenance, and month‑end/year‑end close activities.
• Assisting with preparing, reviewing, and analyzing the annual comprehensive financial report (ACFR) and Single Audit report (SEFA).
• Supporting external and internal audits by preparing schedules, responding to auditor inquiries, and ensuring the timely completion of audit requirements.
• Assisting the Director of Finance and Controller with developing, implementing, and monitoring internal control policies and procedures.
• Preparing and coordinating financial reports, analyses, and presentations for the City Administrator, City Council, and other stakeholders.
• Providing responsive and high‑quality service to other City departments by answering financial and accounting inquiries, ensuring timely and accurate information.
• Identifying…