Controller

Peace Corps; Minneapolis (MN); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

ServeMinnesota is seeking a strategic Controller to oversee accounting operations and financial planning. This leadership role ensures financial accuracy, grant compliance, and robust forecasting to support data-driven decisions.

Reporting to the VP of Finance, you will guide financial reporting, payroll, and audits with a mission-driven approach. The ideal candidate has nonprofit accounting experience, familiarity with federal grants and Uniform Guidance, and strong leadership skills to

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting and/or experience required.
• Minimum of 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role required.
• Advanced Excel skills and strong proficiency with accounting software.
• Experience managing budgets and financial forecasting.
• Experience working with external auditors and GAAP/nonprofit fund accounting.

Responsibilities

• Lead monthly and quarterly financial close processes; prepare statements for leadership and the Board.
• Provide FP&A including budgeting, forecasting, cash flow modeling, variance analysis.
• Oversee federal grant reporting and compliance with funders and regulations.
• Supervise payroll processing, check disbursements, and journal entries.
• Maintain general and subsidiary ledgers in accordance with GAAP and nonprofit standards.
• Monitor budget-to-actual performance across programs and projects.
• Coordinate annual audit; prepare schedules and respond to inquiries.
• Manage relationships with external vendors and insurance providers.
• Guide the Staff Accountant and support staff development.
• Ensure procurement and receivables align with internal policies and best practices.
• Contribute to system improvements and internal controls.

Skills

Advanced Excel

Budgeting

Forecasting

Accounting software

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

Tools

Accounting Software

Job description

Unless posted on USAJobs.gov, the positions and organizations linked to here are in no way affiliated with or sanctioned by the Peace Corps or the United States government.The views, positions, and priorities expressed by the posting organizations are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Peace Corps or the Government of the United States.

About ServeMinnesota

ServeMinnesota combines the people power of AmeriCorps with evidence-based practices to provide cost-effective solutions, yield measurable results, and bring proven models to scale. AmeriCorps members are highly motivated individuals of all ages who dedicate a year or more of service to give back to their communities. Currently AmeriCorps members serve in 17 programs statewide to address unmet needs in affordable housing, college access, literacy and math tutoring, economic opportunity, addiction recovery, and environmental conservation.

Duties

ServeMinnesota is seeking an experienced and strategic Controller to oversee our accounting operations and financial planning functions. This is a key leadership role responsible for ensuring financial accuracy, grant compliance, and robust forecasting to support data-driven decision-making. The ideal candidate will bring a strong background in nonprofit accounting, experience with federal grant management, and a proactive, analytical mindset. Reporting to the Vice President of Finance, the Controller will lead financial reporting, manage payroll processes, maintain compliance with funders and regulators, and serve as the organization’s primary liaison with external auditors. This position will also supervise the Staff Accountant and play a lead role in the budgeting and forecasting process. Designed for a hybrid work schedule, the Controller is required to be in the office a minimum of 2 days per week. This is an excellent opportunity for a finance professional who thrives in a mission-driven, dynamic environment and wants to make a meaningful impact across Minnesota.

Essential Job Functions

1. 1. Lead monthly and quarterly financial close processes; prepare timely and accurate financial statements for leadership and the Board.
2. 2. Provide financial planning and analysis (FP&A), including budgeting, forecasting, cash flow modeling, and variance analysis.
3. 3. Oversee federal grant reporting and ensure compliance with funder and regulatory requirements.
4. 4. Supervise and approve payroll processing, check disbursements, and journal entries.
5. 5. Maintain general and subsidiary ledgers in accordance with GAAP and nonprofit fund accounting standards.
6. 6. Monitor and report on budget-to-actual performance across programs and projects.
7. 7. Serve as the primary contact for the annual audit; prepare schedules and workpapers, respond to auditor inquiries, and coordinate timelines.
8. 8. Manage financial relationships with external vendors and insurance providers.
9. 9. Guide and support the Staff Accountant, promoting development and efficiency.
10. 10. Ensure procurement and receivables processes align with internal policies and best practices.
11. 11. Contribute to system improvements and internal control enhancements

Qualifications

• Minimum
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting and/or experience required
• Minimum of 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role required
• Advanced Excel skills (e.g., pivot tables, complex formulas, financial models)
• Experience managing budgets and financial forecasting
• Strong proficiency with accounting software and Microsoft Excel
• Experience working directly with external auditors Preferred:
• Prior experience in public accounting preferred
• Solid foundation in nonprofit accounting and grant compliance
• Familiarity with federal grants and Uniform Guidance
• Preferred candidates will have experience working effectively with a wide range of individuals and communities reflective of those served in Minnesota.