Overview
Assistant Controller Jobs in Washington DC-Baltimore Area at Robert Half
Title: Assistant Controller
Company: Robert Half
Location: Washington DC-Baltimore Area
My client is a larger non-profit organization that is searching for an Assistant Controller. This person will report directly into the Controller and will manage 3 reports. They will want a candidate that exhibits longevity in their previous roles, proven management experience, and hands on operational accounting experience.
Assistant Controller
Nonprofit Organization | Multi-Entity Environment
We are seeking a strong nonprofit Assistant Controller to support and oversee day-to-day accounting operations within a mid-sized to large, multi-entity organization. This role is ideal for a hands-on accounting leader with deep nonprofit experience, a proven ability to manage teams, and a stable career history demonstrating long-term commitment and progression.
Position Overview
The Assistant Controller will play a critical role in managing operational accounting functions while supporting accurate, timely financial reporting across multiple entities. This individual will work closely with senior finance leadership and serve as a hands-on manager responsible for maintaining strong internal controls, driving process improvements, and mentoring accounting staff. The position requires both technical strength and steady leadership within a complex nonprofit environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee and actively participate in day-to-day operational accounting, including general ledger management, journal entries, account reconciliations, and month-end and year-end close
- Support consolidated reporting and accounting activity across multiple entities or affiliated organizations
- Ensure compliance with GAAP and nonprofit accounting standards
- Manage and review payroll, AP, AR, and cash management activities as applicable
- This person will act as the backup to AP and Payroll; they will handle the processing.
- Prepare or oversee audit schedules and serve as a key point of contact during annual financial audits
- Maintain and strengthen internal controls, accounting policies, and procedures
- Lead, develop, and mentor accounting staff, with responsibility for workload management, performance feedback, and team development
- Partner with senior finance leadership on process improvements, system enhancements, and special projects
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance; CPA or advanced degree is a plus
- Strong nonprofit accounting background required
- Minimum of 5–8 years of accounting experience, including at least 2+ years in a management or supervisory role
- Prior experience in a mid-sized to large, multi-entity or consolidated nonprofit environment is required
- Previous experience processing payroll and AP
- Demonstrated hands-on operational accounting experience; this is not a purely strategic or review-level role
- Proven leadership experience with a track record of managing and developing accounting professionals
- History of longevity in previous roles, reflecting stability, reliability, and sustained contributions to prior organizations
- Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to meet deadlines in a dynamic environment
- Clear communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across departments
