Nonprofit Controller for Early Childhood Programs

SouthSide Early Childhood Center; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

SouthSide Early Childhood Center in St. Louis, Missouri seeks a Controller to lead accounting and financial management.

This hands-on role combines daily operations with budgeting, forecasting, grant accounting, and financial analysis to support mission-driven programs. Reporting to the Executive Director, you will partner with leadership, program and development staff, and external accountants to deliver timely reports and translate numbers into actionable guidance for diverse stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Experience in nonprofit accounting and financial management.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP, restricted-fund accounting, grant accounting, and internal controls.
• Experience coordinating audits and preparing supporting schedules and documentation.
• Proficiency with accounting software and Microsoft Excel, including the ability to organize, analyze, and explain financial data.

Responsibilities

• Oversee accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, general ledger maintenance, and account reconciliations.
• Manage the monthly and year-end close processes, ensuring accurate records and timely financial statements.
• Prepare financial reports for the Executive Director, leadership team, Finance Committee, and Board, including explanations of significant variances and emerging trends.
• Lead annual budget development in partnership with department leaders and maintain forecasts that reflect changes in revenue, staffing, and program needs.
• Monitor cash flow, operating reserves, receivables, and payment obligations to support sound financial planning.
• Maintain accurate accounting for restricted contributions, grants, government contracts, and program revenue.
• Coordinate cost allocations and financial reporting across programs and funding sources.
• Partner with development and program staff to prepare grant budgets, track expenditures, and meet funder reporting requirements.
• Maintain and strengthen internal controls, financial procedures, and documentation.
• Coordinate audit preparation and serve as a primary contact for external auditors.
• Identify opportunities to improve financial processes, reporting tools, and operational efficiency.
• Support leadership in evaluating financial risks, proposed investments, and organizational sustainability.

Skills

Nonprofit accounting

Budgeting

Financial reporting

Grant accounting

Internal controls

Cross-functional collaboration

Financial analysis

Tools

Excel

Accounting software

Job description

SouthSide Early Childhood Center in St. Louis, Missouri seeks a Controller to lead accounting and financial management.

This hands-on role combines daily operations with budgeting, forecasting, grant accounting, and financial analysis to support mission-driven programs. Reporting to the Executive Director, you will partner with leadership, program and development staff, and external accountants to deliver timely reports and translate numbers into actionable guidance for diverse stakeholders.