Controller

Santa Margarita Water District - Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

- Senior

Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

Administration of Environmental Quality Programs

About the position

Santa Margarita Water District (SMWD) is seeking an experienced and strategic Controller to oversee the financial operations of one of California's leading water and wastewater agencies. This is a pivotal leadership opportunity to support critical water and wastewater services while shaping the financial integrity and sustainability of the District. Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer, the Controller will lead a talented team and champion financial excellence. The Controller is responsible for planning, organizing, and managing the work of the accounting team, which includes budgeting, payroll, accounts payable and receivable, purchasing, and contract administration. This role is vital in ensuring compliance, maintaining financial records, and preparing accurate reports for the District and its Joint Powers Authorities (JPAs). At Santa Margarita Water District, we are dedicated to delivering reliable and sustainable water and wastewater services to our community. By joining our team, you'll play a crucial role in safeguarding our financial health and supporting innovative projects that make a lasting impact on the environment and the people we serve.

Responsibilities

• Plans, directs, participates, organizes, controls, integrates and reviews/evaluates the work of the assigned section.
• Manages the performance of section staff; interviews and selects new staff; establishes performance requirements and personal development targets.
• Provides day-to-day leadership and works with staff to ensure a high-performance, customer service-oriented work environment.
• Participates in the formulation and implementation of departmental policy, planning and strategic development.
• Oversees the analysis, development, implementation and monitoring of monthly and annual financial statements and schedules.
• Researches and works with department heads and other staff to resolve accounting and reporting problems and discrepancies.
• Oversees the preparation of and administers the annual budget and advises departments or JPA of budget-related policies and procedures.
• Prepares and directs the preparation of a variety of written correspondence, reports, procedures, presentations and other materials.
• Presents financial information, including audit results, to the Board of Directors.
• Participates in complex administrative or management studies relating to District activities.
• Recommends and ensures compliance with accounting policies, procedures and internal controls.
• Coordinates the annual independent financial audit and responds to inquiries.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree in finance, business, accounting or related field.
• A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in financial management, including two years at a supervisory or managerial capacity.
• Possession of a California Board of Accountancy (CPA) License is required.
• Public agency experience, particularly in water or wastewater agencies, is preferred.

Benefits

• Possession of or the ability to obtain a valid California Class C driver's license.
• Ability to maintain insurability under the District's vehicle insurance program.