Controller
This recruitment is open until the position is filled.
First review of applications will occur in three (3) weeks on August 6, 2026.
This classification is unclassified, which means the employee or the city can terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any or no reason, with or without cause or notice.
Pay Grade: 119
Annual Salary Range: $116,100 - $171,200
The successful candidate’s placement in the salary range will depend upon previous experience in a similar role.
The City of Tempe offers a comprehensive benefits package including:
- 13 Paid Holidays and 1 Personal Day
- Vacation Accrual starts at 9.33 hours/month. Higher monthly vacation accrual rates may be available with prior ASRS service.
- Sick Leave Accrual; 8 hours/month
- Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits
- Wellness Program Discount on health premiums
- Medical Reimbursement Program; $66.11/month
- Tuition Reimbursement; $6,500/year
- Participation in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) Defined benefit plan with mandatory employer and employee contributions currently at 11.98% which includes a Long-Term Disability benefit
- Supplemental Retirement Plans through Nationwide; 457, 401K, and Employer contribution
- Position is eligible for up to 40 hours of floating holiday leave
To view the employee benefit summary, please visit:
Employee Benefit Summary
Department / Division:
Financial Services / Accounting Division
Job Type:
Full-Time Regular
Schedule:
Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Job Number:
RC# 902484
DESCRIPTION
This position manages the City's accounting department while supervising accountants, payroll, and accounting supervisors to ensure accuracy in financial records. Prepares financial reports and analyses for the finance director and council, advising on finances and potential policy or procedural implementations. Coordinates with external auditors for the City's Comprehensive Annual Financial Report and Single Audit report, maintains the integrity of the City's financial system and general ledger, and recommends improvements to meet Generally Accepted Accounting Principles guidelines.
Duties include, but are not limited to the following:
- Reviews, analyzes, and recommends improvements to accounting, reporting, and recording methods and procedures to ensure the City meets Generally Accepted Accounting Principal guidelines.
- Directs fiscal accounting studies. Oversees the City's treasury, payroll, accounts payable, capital assets, and grant monitoring functions.
- Supervises the work of assigned personnel, including assigning and reviewing work, providing guidance, and conducting performance evaluations.
- Oversees the disbursement of all moneys and controls expenditures.
- Provides advice on financial implications and fund availability of items in Council reports. Participates in negotiations and meetings with outside individuals such as consultants or private service providers.
- Participates in data processing procedures related to automated accounting systems or systems that affect the general ledger. Provides necessary testing and support.
- Monitors cash flow, manages banking relationships, and optimizes financial processes.
- Prepares financial statements, management reports, and budget forecasts.
- May perform responsibilities of a similar nature and level as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS
Experience:
Five (5) years of experience in governmental accounting, auditing, or related experience with at least 2 years in a supervisory capacity.
Candidates must have the minimum amount of work experience. Years of experience are based upon a full-time work schedule (2,080 hours per year). The sum of an applicant’s full-time and/or part-time qualifying work experience must meet or exceed the stated minimum qualification. Education will not substitute for the required work experience; however, related unpaid and/or volunteer work experience may be used as qualifying work experience.
Education:
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, or related field.
Professional Licensure and/or Certifications:
- Certified Public Accountant; must be certified within 12 months of hire.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Applicants considered for this job classification must pass the following:
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
For a complete list of City of Tempe job descriptions go to:
Job Descriptions | City of Tempe, AZ
This position is FLSA Exempt which means employees are not eligible for overtime compensation and/or compensatory time.
Employees in this position are represented by the Tempe Supervisors' Association (TSA).
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY: The City of Tempe is an Equal Opportunity / Reasonable Accommodation employer. The City does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, familial status, age, disability, and United States military veteran status. Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City will make a reasonable accommodation(s) during the recruitment & selection process. Persons with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation by contacting Human Resources at 480-350-8276. Requests should be made as early as possible to allow time to arrange the accommodation.
