Controller; Part-Time

Controller (Part-Time)

Reports to:

Executive Director

Hours:

15 hours/week

Compensation: $38-$45/hour based on experience; non-exempt

Location:

On-site preferred (South Orange, NJ)

Start Date:

December 2025– early January 2026

The South Orange Performing Arts Center (SOPAC) is a vibrant cultural hub serving the South Orange community and beyond. We present diverse programming ranging from music and theater to comedy and community events, welcoming thousands of patrons annually. SOPAC is committed to making the arts accessible and creating memorable experiences for all.

SOPAC seeks an experienced Controller who blends hands‑on financial management with strategic insights to strengthen our financial infrastructure. This role serves as Executive Director’s key financial partner, providing oversight of daily financial operations and strategic guidance as SOPAC strengthens its infrastructure.

The Controller works closely with SOPAC’s external CPF firm to manage financial operations and ensure accuracy and consistency across all financial functions. This role manages cash flow, oversees payroll and benefits administration, maintains vendor relationships, and serves as financial liaison across departments. The ideal candidate brings senior‑level expertise and is comfortable with hands‑on work—submitting payroll, processing payments, managing insurance—while also identifying opportunities to improve systems and build organizational capacity.

This role is ideal for an experienced CFO or Controller seeking meaningful part‑time engagement with strong work‑life balance. This role offers the satisfaction of directly impacting a cultural institution serving 30,000+ annual patrons during our milestone 20th anniversary season. As SOPAC grows, there may be opportunities to expand this part‑time role into a broader capacity for the right candidate.

Financial Operations & Cash Management

• Manage and monitor cash flow, including cash transfers and bank reconciliations
• Serve as authorized signatory on bank accounts for financial transactions within established limits
• Coordinate with outsourced CPA firm on reporting, reconciliations, month‑end close, and strategic financial planning
• Support budget preparation, forecasting, and grant tracking
• Respond to auditor inquiries and maintain internal controls and compliance documentation

Payroll, Benefits & HR Administration

• Oversee payroll processing (Office Admin. prepares, Controller reviews and submits)
• Lead retirement benefit administration and manage 403(b) processes
• Manage insurance claims, audits, and compliance
• Collaborate on onboarding/offboarding processes and benefits compliance

Cross‑Departmental Support & Vendor Management

• Ensure timely communication with outsourced CPA firm and internal stakeholders
• Maintain key vendor relationships and oversee payment processes
• Work closely with Office Administrator, Box Office Manager, and other staff on financial coordination
• Provide financial support for rentals, facilities, and operations

Process Improvement & Capacity Building

• Identify opportunities to streamline financial operations and improve efficiency
• Recommend and implement system improvements as organizational capacity develops
• Bring best practices from prior experience to strengthen financial infrastructure
• Support executive leadership in building sustainable financial operations

Required:

• 10+ years of progressive financial leadership experience, including at least 5 years in nonprofit finance leadership (Controller or CFO level)
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related field
• Proficiency in Quick Books Online and ADP (or similar platforms)
• Strong understanding of nonprofit compliance, audit, and grant reporting
• Demonstrated ability to both execute hands‑on work and think strategically about process improvement
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills
• Comfort working as part of external/internal finance team structure

Preferred:

• CPA, CMA, or MBA
• Experience with
• Performing arts or cultural sector finance experience
• Track record of building financial infrastructure in under‑resourced organizations
• Familiarity…