Assistant Controller

About the Job

The University of Minnesota is the state's land-grant university and one of the most prestigious public research universities in the nation. The University of Minnesota seeks an Assistant Controller to direct and execute delegated university-wide institutional strategy and provide operational oversight for the Controllers Office, including but not limited to: general accounting, financial reporting, accounts receivable, accounts payable, billing, procurement, asset management, payroll accounting, financial systems, and various research and analysis support. This position reports directly to the Assistant Vice President for Financial Operations and Controller.

Location and Work Environment: This hybrid position is based on the Twin Cities campus, with a minimum of three days per week in the office expected. Relocation expenses are at the candidates discretion.

Please apply by 10/27/26 for consideration.

Please note, this position is not eligible for H-1B or Green Card sponsorship. This position does not offer a STEM OPT training program.

Job Responsibilities

Support of University-wide Financial Operations and Campus Outreach - 30%

• Oversee and enforce as delegated an appropriate internal control environment is in place for the University by providing establishing, directing, and monitoring policy, procedures and systems to stakeholders across the University.
• Identify and direct the development of the communication and presentation materials needed for financial reporting and process meetings as identified, assigned, or requested.
• Assist in preparing financial schedules and materials.
• Consult with and advise University senior leadership, faculty, and staff on university wide financial challenges/opportunities. Serve as a high level consultant and advisor between the Controller and departmental and collegiate financial staff, and in some instances, act in a delegate role of the Controller.
• Assist with reviewing and responding to policy questions, including complex exception requests.
• Prepare or review analyses and memos to support strategic initiatives or research complex financial and compliance issues.

Support of Financial Operations and Management - 25%

• Oversee and resolve ad hoc requests to support Controller's Office units on various topics related to University financial policies, processes, and systems.
• Drive financial data analysis and trend reporting to support budget reviews, cost control, scheduling, and planning.
• Provide leadership for the development, implementation and guidance of Controller's Office initiatives.

Reporting and Audit Execution - 20%

• Assist with the review and oversight responsibilities for financial reporting, such as annual and interim financial reports (Financial Statements, Schedule of Federal Awards, Composite Financial Index, etc).
• Drive and oversee delegated annual and ad hoc compliance audits by external auditors and sponsoring units.

Management and Team Leadership - 20%

• Direct and manage the Finance Communications and Training team. This includes setting priorities, executing on strategic goals, and work scope.
• Create, develop, implement, and review strategy and unit operating structure, policies, and procedures.
• Seek and measure feedback; receive and handle comments, and situations reported by University faculty, staff, or student employees.
• Recruit and drive organizational development strategies and expertise to recruit a diverse staff of well-qualified and high-performing professionals.

Other Duties as Assigned - 5%

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• BA/BS degree plus at least 12 years of related experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced Degree in Accounting, Finance, Public Policy, or related fields.
• CPA or MBA
• Ability to interact with all levels of the organization, including University senior leaders and external executives where necessary, and ability to positively represent the University of Minnesota.
• Excellent communication skills, and the ability to work in a team environment and to work in a complex organizational structure are necessary.
• Commitment and prior experience in supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

Pay and Benefits

Pay Range: $160,000 - $170,000; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

How To Apply

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume or CV.

Required Application Materials:

• Resume
• Cover Letter

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail jobcentr@umn.edu.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nations most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Best Employer for Company Culture (2026), Best Employer for Women (2023, 2025, 2026), and Best Employer by State (2022-2026). In 2026, we also received Culture Excellence & Industry Awards recognition for employee appreciation and work-life flexibility.