Assistant Controller (Full-Time)

Milwaukee Area Technical College • Milwaukee, WI

11d • Onsite

About The Position

Under the direction of the Controller, the Assistant Controller assists in managing the functional areas of payroll, accounts payable, general and project accounting, debt issuance and rating agency relations, audits, investment and cash management, and enterprise operations. This role coordinates with MATC departments including student accounting, procurement, the budget office, and human resources, as well as external partners including MATC’s childcare centers, MPBS, food services, and the print shop. The Assistant Controller produces financial statements and reports in compliance with federal, state, local, and WTCS laws and regulations, utilizing GAAP. Work is performed with a high degree of independence within established laws, policies, and institutional objectives, with continuous communication across the division, industry partners, federal agencies, and governmental regulatory bodies. Serves as acting Controller in the absence of the Controller.

Requirements

• Compliance with all state, federal, and accreditation standards/requirements, as well as all MATC policies and procedures.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a closely related field
• At least five (5) years of senior-level financial administration experience to include; At least three (3) years of staff supervision or one (1) year of staff supervision combined with an Emerging Leaders equivalency
• Extensive knowledge of financial administration within public education and governmental environments.
• Deep understanding of GAAP in accordance with GASB and FASB standards, including fund accounting principles.
• Expert in public sector borrowing, debt service practices, budgeting, and overall financial management.
• Proven experience developing and implementing comprehensive financial policies and procedures.
• Extensive financial management experience with a demonstrated upward trajectory in line management responsibilities.
• Proven leadership competencies specifically tailored to academic and educational settings.
• Skilled in supervising, mentoring, and motivating staff within a unionized environment.
• Ability to prioritize work assignments and manage complex, multi-divisional projects under tight deadlines.
• Strong analytical skills, including financial forecasting and modeling.
• Proficient in financial systems and advanced spreadsheet software; ability to implement innovative technologies in educational settings.
• Skilled at building relationships with Board members, faculty, students, and external organizations.
• Effective oral and written communicator with strong public speaking and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with culturally diverse student and employee populations.
• Committed to transparency, fairness, and professionalism in all stakeholder interactions.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree or higher in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field
• More than five (5) years of related experience
• CPA license

Responsibilities

• Produces and distributes financial statements and reports for local, state, and federal jurisdictions.
• Analyzes operational effectiveness and recommends improvements to administrative and business practices.
• Coordinates with the Controller on district-wide fiscal planning and Business Office development.
• Prepares fiscal analyses aligned with external funding factors and institutional priorities.
• Develops, implements, and monitors internal controls, accounting systems, and financial operating procedures.
• Reviews and monitors actual performance versus budgeted figures in collaboration with the Budget Director.
• Assists with annual budget development and the administration of District financial-asset investment instruments.
• Determines the judicious use of short-term and long-term financing.
• Facilitates annual internal and external audits; executes corrective action on findings.
• Ensures full compliance with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations.
• Maintains working relationships with Wisconsin Technical College System (WTCS) staff to implement state policies and accounting directives.
• Leverages data analytics to drive informed decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Analyzes Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and metrics to gain actionable insights.
• Recommends proactive enhancements to computer information systems and business procedures.
• Manages a high-performing team focused on quality and value-added services.
• Oversees hiring, coaching, mentoring, performance management, and progressive discipline.
• Allocates cross-functional responsibilities and optimizes work processes.
• Establishes and enhances positive work relationships with staff, faculty, and administrators.
• Maintains uncompromising adherence to moral and ethical principles, truthfulness, and accuracy.
• Handles all student and employee matters in a confidential and respectful manner.
• Maintains knowledge of best practices in higher education, specifically for community colleges.
• Participates in workgroups, workshops, and professional associations to promote continuous learning.
• Performs other related duties as required to ensure efficient division operations and support institutional objectives.

Benefits

• Salary pay rates are listed up to the midpoint of the range and placement is determined based on years of experience, internal salary equity, and a review of the applicant's employment and educational background as listed on the job application.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior