Director of Finance

State Education Resource Center • Waterbury, CT

9d • Hybrid

About The Position

The State Education Resource Center (SERC) is seeking a qualified candidate for a full-time Director of Finance to lead and manage the organization's accounting operations, financial reporting, and fiscal compliance. This role combines hands-on accounting leadership with strategic financial oversight to ensure financial integrity, transparency, and alignment with organizational goals. The position reports directly to the Executive Director and plays a central role in supporting SERC's mission through sound financial management, effective internal controls, and collaborative fiscal planning. At SERC, our mission is grounded in a deep and unwavering commitment to equity and social justice. We believe every student deserves access to educational opportunities that honor and reflect their unique identities, abilities, and experiences. No matter a student's race, ethnicity, gender, socioeconomic status, or background, we are dedicated to providing programs and services that empower, uplift, and inspire them. Through our resources, professional development offerings, and centralized library—core components of our legislative responsibility—we work to dismantle systemic barriers and foster environments built on compassion, accountability, and transformative change. Our team members, in collaboration with the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) and partners in school districts and community organizations, support educators, service providers, and families in strengthening their capacity to meet the diverse needs of all students. If you are passionate about being part of a team that works to make education more equitable and inclusive—and you value collaboration, innovation, and purpose—we would love to have you join us.

Requirements

• Knowledge of nonprofit, education, or government financial management practices
• Knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and financial reporting standards
• Knowledge of grant and program financial management
• Knowledge of risk management and internal control systems
• Skill in leading hands-on accounting operations, including financial reporting, audit preparation, and budgeting
• Skill in developing financial policies and improving accounting procedures
• Skill in analyzing complex financial data and presenting findings to leadership
• Skill in using financial management systems and office technology, including MIP Fund Accounting, ADP Workforce Now, and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access)
• Ability to analyze financial issues and implement effective solutions
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and compliance
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and ethical standards
• Ability to communicate financial information clearly to both financial and non-financial audiences
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with organizational leadership while demonstrating initiative and sound judgment
• A Bachelor's degree (BA) with a concentration in Accounting or a closely related field is required.
• Minimum of seven years of progressively responsible accounting experience
• Demonstrated experience in hands-on accounting functions such as financial reporting, audit preparation, budgeting, and oversight of core accounting operations.
• Experience with GAAP compliance, grant accounting, and financial management systems such as MIP Fund Accounting and ADP Workforce Now is strongly preferred.
• Experience in nonprofit organizations, education agencies, government entities, or other grant-funded environments is highly desirable.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience may also be considered.

Nice To Haves

• Three years of supervisory experience preferred.
• Experience with MIP Fund Accounting
• Experience with ADP Workforce Now
• Experience in nonprofit organizations, education agencies, government entities, or other grant-funded environments is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead organizational financial planning and analyze budget-to-actual performance.
• Develop financial forecasts to support program planning and organizational growth.
• Monitor cash flow to support operational stability.
• Oversee accounting systems, financial records, and reporting functions.
• Supervise the accurate and timely processing of accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll and payroll tax reporting, journal entries, reconciliations, and cash management.
• Prepare financial reports for federal, state, and foundation grants.
• Ensure expenditure remains aligned with grant and program budgets.
• Develop and maintain fiscal policies and procedures for financial operations.
• Monitor financial risks and maintain effective internal controls.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory, tax, and financial reporting requirements.
• Maintain records that meet audit and government reporting standards.
• Coordinate external audits and address recommendations.

Benefits

• The organization may review or verify materials submitted in support of an applicant's candidacy without additional permission.
• SERC also reserves the right to modify compensation, benefits, minimum qualifications, desired skills, and job duties for this position at any time.
• Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.

What This Job Offers

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