Strategic SEI Controller - Finance, Contracts & Ops

Software Engineering Institute | Carnegie Mellon University; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

The SEI in Pittsburgh seeks an experienced accounting leader to serve as Controller, overseeing Accounting and Business Operations, contract financial management, and internal controls. You will partner with Planning & Analysis, University Accounting, Contracts, and other stakeholders to ensure timely, accurate, and well-controlled financial operations.

We value a CPA-qualified professional with leadership experience in regulated environments, strong communication, and a collaborative approach

Qualifications

• Significant progressive experience in accounting operations, financial controls, or accounting leadership in regulated environments.
• Active CPA license with strong technical accounting knowledge.
• Ability to build relationships across teams and guide stakeholders to solutions.
• Detail-focused with emphasis on reliability in accounting and business operations.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and operational leadership for Accounting and Business Operations, including Contract Financial Management and Business Operations.
• Strengthen internal controls, documentation, and drive consistency, accuracy, and efficiency across accounting and business operations.
• Lead, coach, and develop team members with succession planning and growth.
• Oversee financial execution of the SEI contract, including funding administration, contract accounting, billing, receivables, cash activity, revenue recognition support, and related recordkeeping.
• Oversee core business operations functions, including Accounts Payable and Travel, ensuring timely service delivery.
• Collaborate with Planning & Analysis, University Accounting, Contracts, and other stakeholders to align financial processes.
• Serve as escalation point for complex accounting, billing, receivables, payables, travel, and contract financial matters.
• Identify and implement opportunities for automation, standardization, and improved service delivery across Accounting and Business Operations.

Skills

CPA-Qualified professional

Collaborative leader

Control-oriented

Strategic and practical

Clear communicator

Growth-minded

Education

CPA license

Job description

The SEI in Pittsburgh seeks an experienced accounting leader to serve as Controller, overseeing Accounting and Business Operations, contract financial management, and internal controls. You will partner with Planning & Analysis, University Accounting, Contracts, and other stakeholders to ensure timely, accurate, and well-controlled financial operations.

We value a CPA-qualified professional with leadership experience in regulated environments, strong communication, and a collaborative approach