Assistant Controller

CITY OF WOONSOCKET, RHODE ISLAND

Personnel Division

Employment Advertisement

ASSISTANT CONTROLLER

The Assistant Controller is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the City of Woonsocket’s general accounting, payroll and accounts payable functions.  This position ensures the accuracy, integrity and timeliness of financial record through proper reconciliation, internal controls, as well as adherence to generally accepted accounting principles. Specific job duties include, but are not limited to, the following:  oversight and coordination of general accounting operations, including timely monthly closing and reconciliation of all City accounts.  Review departmental processes to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.  Addresses areas for improvement.  Assists the Controller in budgeting, forecasting and resource allocations.  This person would also assist in the preparation of the City’s Annual Financial Report.  Serves as the point of contact with outside auditing firms, as well as internal coordination with other City departments.  Supervises, trains and evaluates assigned staff, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration and continuous learning.  This position requires a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or related field.  A minimum  of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in financial reporting and/or analysis, including at least three (3) years in a supervisory capacity.  Proficiency is also required in financial systems and standard office software applications.  The person in this position must have a thorough knowledge of governmental accounting principles and financial reporting standards.  Strong analytical and problem solving skills.  The ability to communicate effectively to a variety of audiences, while fostering a collaborative, professional learning environment.

Application Deadline:   Open Until Filled

Classification:   Non-Union/Non-Classified

Salary Range:   $75,000/Year to $85,000/Year

To Apply:  The City of Woonsocket offers a competitive benefit and compensation package.  For more information on this position including a full position description and application visit the “Employment” section on the City of Woonsocket website via the following URL:

https://www.woonsocketri.gov/personnel-department/pages/employment-opportunities

Please forward your completed application and resume to Nikki Aphonphanh, Personnel Division, City of Woonsocket, 169 Main Street, Woonsocket, RI 02895.  You may send your information electronically to naphonphanh@woonsocketri.gov.

A City of Woonsocket Application for Employment must be completed and one can be obtained by visiting the “Employment” section of the City’s website at www.woonsocketri.gov.

JOB TITLE:                                       Assistant Controller

DEPARTMENT/DIVISION:              Finance Department/Controls Division

PAY GRADE/HOURS/PLAN:           Grade TBD  /  40-hour work week

UNION:                                              Non-Union/Non-Classified Plan

POSITION SUMMARY:  Under the direction of the Controller, the Assistant Controller is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the City’s general accounting, payroll, and accounts payable functions.  The position ensures the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial records through proper reconciliation, internal controls, and adherence to applicable accounting standards.  The Assistant Controller exercises initiative and independent judgement, assumes ownership of assigned financial operations, and contributes to a collaborative work environment that supports continuous improvement, accountability, and professional development.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Interprets and applies accounting standards accordingly
• Develops and implements financial controls and policies and ensures compliance thereof
• Oversees and coordinates general accounting operations, including timely monthly closing and reconciliation of all accounts
• Prepares monthly and annual financial statements, including supporting schedules and variance analysis
• Assists in the preparation of the City’s Annual Financial Statements, including coordination with internal departments
• Serves as a point of contact for external auditors and assists in audit coordination and completion
• Assists the Controller in budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation activities
• Supervises, trains, and evaluates assigned staff; fosters a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning
• Reviews departmental processes to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and compliance; identifies and implements process improvements
• Monitors new accounting pronouncements and evaluates their impact on municipal financial reporting, conducting financial analyses and presents findings to senior leadership and City officials
• Maintains and oversees the general ledger structure and ensures proper application of accounting practices and internal controls
• Demonstrates initiative and ownership in improving financial operations and strengthening internal processes
• Performs other duties as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED:

• Works under the general supervision of the Controller
• Exercises direct supervision over 8–12 employees

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:  Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field.  Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in financial reporting and/or analysis, including at least three (3) years in a supervisory capacity.  Proficiency in financial systems and standard office software applications

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

      Experience in governmental or municipal accounting

      Knowledge of GASB reporting requirements

      Master’s degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or related field

      Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Designation

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND QUALITIES:  Thorough knowledge of governmental accounting principles and financial reporting standards.  Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.  Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly and effectively to a variety of audiences.  Demonstrated ability to take initiative, manage multiple priorities, and maintain accountability for assigned functions.  Ability to foster a positive, team-oriented work environment that supports learning, growth, and continuous improvement.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:  Work is performed primarily in an office setting requiring standard visual, auditory, and manual dexterity.  May require attendance at evening meetings, including City Council meetings, and occasional weekend work.

An Equal Opportunity Employer