Benchmark School Controller

Benchmark School - Media, PA

Full-time - Mid Level

Media, PA

Educational Services

About the position

The Controller at Benchmark School is a full-time, exempt position responsible for overseeing the day-to-day accounting and bookkeeping functions within the organization. This role is crucial in ensuring the financial health of the school, particularly in the not-for-profit sector. The Controller will report directly to the Chief Financial Officer and will be expected to work 40 hours per week, managing a variety of financial tasks that include accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger management. The position requires a high degree of organization and attention to detail, as well as the ability to multitask in a dynamic office environment. In addition to routine accounting duties, the Controller will prepare semi-monthly payroll, ensuring that all necessary taxes and benefits are accurately processed and transferred to the appropriate agencies. This includes managing the 403(b) program and FSA/HSA contributions. The Controller will also be responsible for resolving any payroll issues promptly and coordinating with the payroll vendor to ensure accurate updates to hours, earnings, and deductions. The role also encompasses financial reporting responsibilities, including the preparation of financial statements and the reconciliation of balance sheet accounts. The Controller will assist the CFO in budget preparation and monitoring, working closely with other administrators and department heads to ensure compliance with accounting policies. Additionally, the Controller will lead the preparation of schedules and working papers for the annual audit, including the financial audit and Form 990 preparation. As part of the HR Generalist responsibilities, the Controller will support the HR department by comparing HR laws to current policies, drafting HR documents, and overseeing the hiring and onboarding process. This includes preparing paperwork for new hires and conducting exit interviews. The Controller will also provide HR advisory services to employees on various matters, ensuring a smooth and compliant HR operation within the school.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day accounting/bookkeeping functions including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger.
• Prepare semi-monthly payroll and ensure all necessary taxes and benefits are transferred to appropriate agencies.
• Resolve payroll issues in an urgent manner and coordinate with payroll vendor for updates.
• Complete monthly and/or quarterly bank and investment account reconciliations and prepare financial statements through the Trial Balance.
• Assist the CFO in the preparation and monitoring of the departmental budget and forecast.
• Communicate accounting policies to relevant employees and ensure compliance with such policies.
• Lead preparation of schedules and working papers for annual audits, including financial audit and Form 990 preparation.
• Complete various HR tasks to support daily operations, including drafting HR documents and overseeing hiring and onboarding processes.
• Administer benefits, compensation, and employee performance programs.
• Stay current on new regulations in GAAP and relevant non-for-profit accounting issues.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in accounting.
• 3-5 years' experience in accounting, preferably in the not-for-profit sector.
• Experience with QuickBooks and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented.
• Ability to multitask in an active office environment.
• High degree of flexibility and professionalism.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with the Google platform.
• Knowledge of HR laws and regulations.

Benefits

• Health savings account