Assistant Controller, General Accounting

University of Florida; Gainesville (FL); On-site; USD 95,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Licensure as Florida CPA preferred, or

Opportunity for professional growth

Job summary

University of Florida is seeking an Assistant Controller to lead accounting staff, oversee monthly closes, and provide strategic financial leadership across campus. The role partners with senior leadership to drive data-driven decision making and process improvements.

The position requires a Master’s or Bachelor’s degree in accounting with substantial experience in general ledger operations, financial reporting, and system platforms like PeopleSoft and Workday.

Qualifications

• Requires a Master’s degree in accounting or related field with 2+ years of relevant experience, or a Bachelor’s degree with 4+ years of experience.
• Experience leading accounting staff and managing close processes in large organizations preferable.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, GASB, and financial reporting for higher education.

Responsibilities

• Leads accounting staff and interns, builds a collaborative, high-performing team.
• Oversees monthly, quarterly, and year-end close, ensures data integrity and reporting.
• Guides departments on GL processes and financial transactions, promoting customer service.

Skills

Leadership

GAAP knowledge

Data analysis

Problem solving

Communication

Education

Master's degree in accounting

Bachelor's degree in accounting

Tools

PeopleSoft

Workday

Job description

Classification Minimum Requirements

Master’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization and two years of appropriate experience; or a Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area and four years of relevant experience

Classification Title

Assistant Controller

Classification Minimum Requirements

Master’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization and two years of appropriate experience; or a Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area and four years of relevant experience

Job Description

Leadership

Provides leadership and direction for accounting staff and student interns by fostering a collaborative, high-performing, and customer-focused work environment. Oversees performance management, identifies training opportunities, and supports professional development to build individual and team capabilities. Partners with senior leadership and the campus community to cultivate a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and operational excellence while supporting the CFO Division’s strategic priorities and core values. Develops and monitors data metrics that support data-driven decision-making and provide meaningful financial and operational insights to leadership.

Technical & Operations

Oversees the accurate and timely completion of monthly, quarterly, and year-end close activities, ensuring the integrity and reliability of financial data and reporting. Reviews, validates, and approves complex journal entries, interdepartmental transfers, and other high-impact accounting transactions while ensuring compliance with GASB standards and applicable federal, state, and institutional requirements. Manages general ledger operations, commitment control processes, and related accounting functions to maintain the accuracy of the University’s financial records. Oversees general ledger configuration and maintenance within PeopleSoft and collaborates with Workday Financial Data Model teams to ensure alignment with institutional business needs and reporting requirements.

Customer Service

Provides accounting guidance, training, and operational support to University departments regarding general ledger processes and financial transactions. Promotes a customer-service-centered environment by partnering with campus units, component organizations, and other stakeholders to address needs and improve financial operations. Evaluates business processes to enhance service quality, efficiency, and effectiveness, and resolves complex accounting issues through timely consultation and problem-solving. Builds strong working relationships across the institution by fostering trust, accountability, collaboration, and shared success.

Research & Outreach

Collaborates with campus partners, professional organizations, and peer institutions to identify and implement best practices, process improvements, and strategic initiatives that strengthen financial operations. Monitors developments in accounting standards, regulatory requirements, and industry guidance to support compliance and effective implementation across the University. Ensures the integrity of financial data by developing and enhancing processes, leading the investigation of discrepancies, and directing corrective actions related to general ledger activity. Supports continuous improvement efforts that enhance accuracy, transparency, and operational efficiency.

Special Projects

Participates in special projects and performs other duties as assigned.

Expected Salary

Commensurate with experience

Preferred

• Licensure as a State of Florida Certified Public Accountant preferred, but not required
• Strong knowledge and understanding of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), specifically as these principles relate to college and university technical accounting, fund accounting, and financial reporting. GASB experience preferred
• Prior experience leading a team in financial operations and proven track record of driving process automation and change management.
• Ability to analyze and solve problems, interpret, and recommend data driven solutions or changes
• Excellent customer service skills, including strong written and verbal communications skills, as well as the ability to work with individuals at multiple levels. Ability to work effectively in both team and individual settings. Flexibility and adaptability dealing with various priorities
• Must display a positive attitude and be a team player – must be able to thrive in a collaborative environment
• Experience using PeopleSoft and/or Workday Financial systems
• Must have the ability to understand various business processes and translate them into technical solutions
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet deadlines