Controller – Government Contracting Financial Operations Leader

Carnegie Mellon University; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 260,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tuition benefits

Paid time off

Life insurance

Bus pass benefit

Job summary

Carnegie Mellon University’s Software Engineering Institute (SEI) seeks an experienced accounting and finance leader to become its Controller. You will direct Accounting and Business Operations, strengthen internal controls, and oversee contract financial management and billing in a highly regulated environment.

You’ll lead a team, partner with Planning & Analysis, University Accounting, and Contracts, and drive process improvements, automation, and strong service delivery to support the SEI’s

Qualifications

• Progressive accounting operations leadership in a regulated environment.
• Active CPA license with strong technical accounting knowledge.
• Collaborative leader able to align teams and stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented with proven controls and process design.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and operational leadership for Accounting and Business Operations.
• Strengthen internal controls and drive process documentation and efficiency.
• Lead, coach, and develop the accounting team and cross-training.
• Oversee Contract Financial Management including funding, billing, and receivables.
• Oversee Accounts Payable and Travel; ensure timely service delivery.
• Partner with Planning & Analysis, University Accounting, and Contracts.
• Serve as escalation point for complex accounting and contract matters.
• Identify opportunities for automation and service improvement.

Skills

Accounting leadership

Controls

Team leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

CPA-licensed

Strategic thinking

Education

CPA license

Certified public accountant

Job description

Carnegie Mellon University’s Software Engineering Institute (SEI) seeks an experienced accounting and finance leader to become its Controller. You will direct Accounting and Business Operations, strengthen internal controls, and oversee contract financial management and billing in a highly regulated environment.

You’ll lead a team, partner with Planning & Analysis, University Accounting, and Contracts, and drive process improvements, automation, and strong service delivery to support the SEI’s