Assistant Controller

University of South Alabama; Mobile (AL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of South Alabama’s Business Office is seeking to hire an Assistant Controller to lead central accounting functions and provide strategic financial guidance across campus.

The role oversees ledger management, financial close processes, depreciation, and regulatory compliance with GASB standards. Strong supervisory experience and a CPA are highly valued; a Master’s degree is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field required.
• Six years of professional accounting/finance experience, three in supervision.
• Master’s degree and CPA preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provides operational leadership across central accounting functions within the University.
• Oversee daily ledger management, financial reporting, subledger operations, and regulatory compliance.
• Oversees monthly, quarterly, and year-end financial close processes with accuracy across funds.
• Coordinates with external auditors during annual financial statement audits.
• Maintains internal controls and aligns with GASB standards and best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Financial reporting

Supervisory experience

GAAP/GASB knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree in accounting

Master’s degree

CPA

Tools

Banner system

Job description

Bachelor’s degree in accounting or directly related business field from an accredited institution as approved and accepted by the University of South Alabama and six years of professional accounting or finance experience, three of which were in a supervisory capacity.

Preferred Qualifications

A master’s degree and CPA are preferred.

Job Description Summary

The University of South Alabama’s Business Office is seeking to hire an Assistant Controller.

Essential Functions These are the job duties required of the position. Essential Functions

• Provides operational leadership across central accounting functions functions within the University.
• Oversee daily ledger management, financial reporting, subledger operations, and regulatory compliance while supporting campus leaders with strategic financial guidance.
• Oversees monthly, quarterly, and fiscal year-end financial close processes, ensuring accuracy across all university funds.
• Ensures proper capitalization, depreciation, and disposals in accordance with GASB standards.
• Supports bond-funded project accounting and reporting, including debt compliance.
• Coordinates with external auditors during annual financial statement audits.
• Provides operational leadership over central financial service units.
• Monitors and assists with implementation of new GASB pronouncements.
• Oversees internal controls and ensures alignment with best practices in governmental accounting, and maintains robust internal control policies across academic and administrative departments to safeguard university assets.
• Coordinates financial reporting requirements for Federal and State oversight agencies and governing boards.
• Identifies areas in which accounting can be streamlined or made more efficient through more effective use of the Banner system to automate workflows and enhance reporting capabilities.
• Prepares ad hoc reports requested by management and, where applicable, provides analytical commentary and advice.
• Ensures that controls and processes are in place to provide accurate and timely financial information.
• Develops and prepares charts and graphic presentations of financial ratios and other data to aid management decision-making.
• Advises Dean, Department Chairs, and administrative managers on financial policies, budget, and proper accounting procedures.
• Maintains and revises, as necessary, financial reporting procedures to ensure compliance with University, State and Federal regulations.
• Serves as liaison for external annual financial audits, state compliance reviews, and Uniform Guidance Single Audits.
• Validates data, as applicable, for special projects.
• Supervises and develops accounting staff.
• Regular and prompt attendance.
• Ability to work schedule as defined and additional hours as required.
• Related duties as required.

Number of Vacancies

Number of Vacancies 1

Position End Date (if temporary)

Job Open Date

Job Open Date 10/01/2026

Job Close Date

Open Until Filled Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants

Working Days

Working Days Monday - Friday

Working Hours

Working Hours 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Job Location

Job Location Main Campus

Full-time or Part-Time

Full-time or Part-Time Full Time

Regular or Temporary

Regular or Temporary Regular

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

• * Are you at least 18 years of age?
  • Yes
  • No
• * Do you have a legal right to work in the United States?
  • Yes
  • No
• * The University of South Alabama typically does not sponsor individualsfor staff positions. Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status?
  • Yes
  • No
• * What is the highest level of education you have completed?
  • Less than High School
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Associates Degree
  • Bachelors Degree (or will obtain within 6 months)
  • Masters Degree (or will obtain within 6 months)
  • Terminal Degree (or will obtain within 6 months)
• * How many years of related experience do you have?
  • Less than 1 year
  • Between 1 - 3 years
  • Between 3 - 5 years
  • Between 5 - 7 years
  • More than 7 years
• * How did you hear about this position?
  • USA website
  • LinkedIn
  • Zip Recruiter
  • Indeed
  • HigherEd Jobs
  • Alabama Career Center / Alabama Works
  • Facebook
  • Word of mouth
  • Other

Required Documents

• Resume

Optional Documents

• Cover Letter

The University of South Alabama is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status or any other applicable legally protected basis. If you feel you have been discriminated against, please notify the Equal Employment OpportunityInvestigator or the Associate Vice President, Finance and Administration/CHRO.

EO Employer – minorities/females/veterans/disabilities/sexual orientation/gender identity.

Annual Security and Fire Safety Report
The University of South Alabama publishes certain crime statistics for the most recent three-year period as required by the Jeanne Clery Act. The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is required by federal law and contains policy statements and crime statistics for the school. The report, along with additional information, is available online at: http://www.southalabama.edu/departments/police/resources/fireandsafetyreport.pdf . You may also request a paper copy from the University Police office located at 290 Stadium Blvd, Beta Gamma Commons Building, Mobile, AL 36688.