Assistant Comptroller

City of Boston; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Boston's Retirement System seeks an Assistant Comptroller to support the Comptroller and oversee accounting operations. The role emphasizes accuracy, compliance, and efficient financial management for pension funds.

Responsibilities include preparing statements, backing up the Comptroller, collaborating with internal and external stakeholders, assisting budget processes, audits, and maintaining confidentiality.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in accounting/finance or business administration.
• At least five years of municipal financial accounting experience with GAAP & GASB.
• Bilingual preferred (Spanish, Haitian Creole, Cape Verdean Creole, Chinese, and Vietnamese).

Responsibilities

• Prepare financial statements and reports for the Boston Retirement System.
• Serve as primary backup for the Comptroller and oversee accounting operations.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, GASB and regulations.
• Assist in budget preparation and analysis.
• Coordinate with auditors during annual audits.
• Maintain confidentiality and integrity of financial information.
• Assist in investment accounting and cash management with the Treasury.

Skills

GAAP knowledge

GASB knowledge

Financial analysis

Budgeting

Audit coordination

Communication skills

Confidentiality

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in accounting/finance or business administration

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Suite

Accounting software

Job description

The Assistant Comptroller will play a key role in supporting the financial operations of the Boston Retirement System. Working closely with the Comptroller, this individual will assist in various accounting and financial tasks to ensure accuracy, compliance, and efficiency in financial management. The Assistant Comptroller will contribute to the overall financial health and success of the Boston Retirement System by providing valuable support to the Comptroller and ensuring the effective management of financial resources.

• Assisting in the preparation of financial statements and reports for the Boston Retirement System.
• Serving as the primary backup for the Comptroller, assisting the team and overseeing accounting operations and financial transactions.
• Collaborating with internal teams, as well as external stakeholders, to ensure compliance with accounting standards and regulations.
• Aiding in budget preparation and analysis, including monitoring expenditure trends.
• Assisting in conducting financial audits and reconciliations to ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial data.
• Providing administrative support, including managing documentation and correspondence.
• Participating in special projects and initiatives as directed by the Comptroller.
• Staying updated on relevant laws, regulations, and best practices in accounting and finance.
• Assisting in training and mentoring staff within the finance department.
• Maintaining confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive financial information.
• Conducting reconciliation of 1099R forms to ensure accuracy and compliance with tax reporting requirements.
• Collaborating with the Treasury Department on cash management activities, including monitoring cash flows and reconciling accounts.
• Assisting in investment accounting processes, including tracking investment activity and reconciling investment portfolios.
• Supporting the preparation of financial forecasts and projections to aid in strategic decision-making.
• Assisting in responding to inquiries from stakeholders, including retirees, vendors, and regulatory agencies.
• Participating in the development and implementation of internal controls to safeguard assets and mitigate financial risks.
• Coordinating with external auditors during annual audits and providing necessary documentation and support.
• Contributing to the development and enhancement of financial policies, procedures, and systems.
• Assisting in the preparation of presentations and materials for board meetings and other stakeholder engagements.
• Staying abreast of industry trends and developments in pension fund management and accounting practices.
• Performing related work as required.

• A bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or business administration from a certified college is strongly preferred and may be substituted for two (2) years of the required experience. A master's degree is preferred and may be substituted for an additional year of experience.
• At least five (5) years of equivalent part-time, professional experience in work that involves municipal financial accounting and working knowledge of GAAP & GASB.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles, regulations, and financial reporting standards.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and independently when necessary.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and integrity in handling financial information.
• Excellent oral and written communication and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with financial software, Microsoft applications, and Google Suite.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail as required by the job.
• Bilingual preferred (Spanish, Haitian Creole, Cape Verdean Creole, Chinese, and Vietnamese).

BOSTON RESIDENCY REQUIRED

Terms:

• Union/Salary Plan/Grade: Non-Union/MM2-10
• Hours per week: 35