Under the supervision of the (CFO), the Assistant Controller supports the Controller in managing the daily operations of the Finance Department, ensuring accurate financial reporting, effective internal controls, and compliance with established accounting policies and procedures. This position provides oversight of Accounts Payable operations, assists with general ledger functions, financial reporting, audits, budgeting, and accounting processes, and serves as a key resource in maintaining the integrity and accuracy of the Tribe’s financial records.
The Assistant Controller provides guidance to accounting staff, assists with financial analysis and reporting, and serves as a backup to the Controller as needed. Exercises no supervision.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Accounts Payable Oversight
- Oversee daily Accounts Payable operations, including invoice processing, payments, reimbursements, vendor maintenance, purchase orders, and payment schedules.
- Train, direct, and provide guidance to Accounts Payable staff.
- Review AP transactions for proper coding, documentation, approvals, and compliance with purchasing policies and internal controls.
- Monitor AP aging and resolve vendor discrepancies and account reconciliation issues.
- Maintain controls to prevent errors, duplicate payments, and unauthorized expenditures.
- Assist with month-end and year-end AP closing activities.
Accounting Operations
- Assist the Controller with daily accounting operations, including general ledger maintenance, reconciliations, journal entries, accruals, adjustments, and account analyses.
- Assist with monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes.
- Review financial records for accuracy, completeness, and compliance.
- Assist in maintaining accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls.
- Identify opportunities to improve accounting processes, efficiencies, and financial reporting.
- Process General Welfare payments to eligible Tribal members accurately and timely through the Tribe's financial system.
- Maintain confidential records and supporting documentation related to Tribal member payments.
- Reconcile General Welfare expenditures and prepare periodic financial reports for management and Tribal leadership.
Financial Reporting & Analysis
- Assist with preparation of monthly financial statements, management reports, and financial summaries.
- Analyze financial information and provide recommendations to support sound financial and operational decisions.
Audit & Compliance
- Assist with internal and external audits by preparing schedules, documentation, reconciliations, and supporting information.
- Maintain organized and audit-ready financial records.
- Assist with implementation and monitoring of internal controls.
- Ensure compliance with applicable accounting principles, Tribal policies, grant requirements, and regulatory requirements.
Cash Management & Banking
- Monitor daily cash positions and bank balances.
- Execute wire transfers, ACH payments, and intercompany fund transfers.
- Reconcile daily banking activity and resolve discrepancies.
- Monitor cash disbursements and payroll funding.
- Maintain relationships with commercial banks and financial institutions.
- Assist with opening, closing, and managing corporate bank accounts and authorized signers.
- Review banking services, fees, and fraud-prevention protocols.
- Support financial audits and banking-related requests.
- Assist with oversight of bank, investment, and deposit relationships and support strategies designed to optimize the Tribe's cash position.
Controller Support
- Serve as backup to the Controller during their absence.
- Assist with special projects, financial system improvements, and organizational initiatives.
- Provide financial information and analysis to support strategic planning and operational decision-making.
- Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
Experience
- Minimum of five (5) years of progressive accounting experience, including Accounts Payable, general ledger, financial reporting, or related accounting functions.
- Experience working in a governmental, Tribal, nonprofit, or similar accounting environment is preferred.
- An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience may be considered.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
- Knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting practices, and internal controls.
- Strong knowledge of Accounts Payable processes and accounting operations.
- Ability to analyze financial data, identify discrepancies, and recommend effective solutions.
- Proficiency with accounting software, financial systems, and Microsoft Excel.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to maintain strict confidentiality of financial, Tribal member, and sensitive organizational information.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively with Tribal leadership, management, employees, departments, vendors, financial institutions, and external partners.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion when handling confidential financial information.
- Ability to work independently while also functioning effectively as part of a team.
TRIBAL GOVERNANCE KNOWLEDGE
The successful candidate must become familiar with the functions and responsibilities of the General Council, Tribal Council, and Tribal Committees, including how these governing bodies operate and work in conjunction with one another and with the Finance Department, within 90 days of hire.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Valid California Driver License.
- Must successfully pass a security background check.
- Must successfully pass a drug screening.
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT
At-will.
Pauma is a Drug Free Workplace: All new employees must pass a pre-employment drug screen as well as participate in random drug testing during the course of their employment.
Background Checks: Criminal and civil background checks required, including compliance with Megan’s Law.
Hiring Preference: The Pauma Band of Mission Indians exercises American Indian hiring preference to members of the Pauma Tribe and members of other federally recognized tribes who present proof of eligibility for Indian preference (25 USC 472).
Application Process: Email – [email protected] – Must include a résumé, cover letter and writing sample. In addition to these documents, please include as appropriate: university transcripts, applicable certificates, and letters and/or contacts of reference.
Pay: $38.00 - $43.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
