Controller

Our client, IKORCC Training Center, is growing!

Help shape the future of the skilled trades. As the Controller for a multi-state union Training Center, you'll ensure that financial strength and stewardship power the training of thousands of apprentices across the region. We are looking for a patient visionary, an administrator who can see possibilities but stage them and implement them appropriately for this organization and in a methodical, not rushed fashion.

The Controller is a key member of the training center's leadership team and is responsible for the accuracy, integrity, and strategic use of all financial information for an annual budget of approximately $22–$25 million. This role oversees day-to-day accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, cash management, and compliance.

A critical responsibility of this position is leading preparation for and participation in Department of Labor (DOL) audits, ensuring that all records, processes, and internal controls meet regulatory and organizational standards. While the Controller has no direct reports, they will work closely with the Executive Director, external auditors, vendors, and training center leadership in the region.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management & Reporting

• Oversee all day-to-day accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll entries, and month-end close.
• Prepare timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP and nonprofit best practices.
• Maintain and reconcile all balance sheet accounts, including cash, investments, fixed assets, and prepaid/deferral accounts.
• Manage cash flow forecasting and monitoring to ensure adequate liquidity for ongoing program operations and capital needs.
• Develop and maintain the chart of accounts and financial coding structures that support programmatic and grant reporting.

Budgeting, Forecasting, and Analysis

• Lead the annual budgeting process for a $22–$25 million operating budget, partnering with leadership and program managers to develop realistic revenue and expense projections.
• Prepare rolling forecasts and scenario analyses to support strategic decisions, including program expansion, capital investments, and staffing changes.
• Monitor budget-to-actual performance and provide regular variance analyses, explanations, and recommendations to leadership - preparing the leadership to answer questions from the board/finance committee. This role does not attend board meetings or present directly to the board unless specifically asked to speak on a particular item.
• Support grant and contract budgeting and reporting in alignment with funder and DOL requirements.

Audit, Compliance, and Internal Controls

• Serve as the primary point of contact for the Department of Labor audit process, including planning, document preparation, coordination of responses, and follow-up on findings or recommendations.
• Coordinate annual independent financial audits (if applicable) and other compliance reviews, ensuring timely and accurate submissions.
• Develop, document, and maintain strong internal controls, policies, and procedures to safeguard assets and ensure compliance with DOL, IRS, and other regulatory requirements.
• Ensure adherence to nonprofit and fund accounting principles, including appropriate tracking and reporting of restricted funds, grants, and multi-jurisdictional training center activity.

Systems, Process Improvement, and Technology

• Serve as primary administrator and power user for QuickBooks, ensuring system configuration supports accurate and efficient nonprofit accounting.
• Leverage technology tools such as Microsoft 365 (Excel, Teams, SharePoint), Airtable, and bill pay platforms (e.g., Ramp or similar) to streamline workflows, approvals, and documentation.
• Continuously evaluate and improve accounting processes to increase accuracy, transparency, and efficiency.
• Maintain organized digital and physical records to support audit readiness and operational continuity.

Strategic Partnering and Communication

• Provide clear, actionable financial information and guidance to the Executive Director and program leaders.
• Translate complex financial concepts into accessible information for non-financial stakeholders, including union leaders and training staff.
• Build strong partnerships with consultants and third-party firms.
• Support long-term financial planning, including reserves, capital projects, and sustainability of training programs across the region.
• Model a collaborative, service-oriented approach aligned with the mission of training and developing skilled carpenters.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Public Policy, or a related field required.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in accounting or finance, with at least 3 years in a controller, assistant controller, or similar leadership role.
• Nonprofit accounting experience strongly preferred; experience in a membership organization, co-op, grant-funded organization, or similar experience preferred.
• Demonstrated experience managing a budget of comparable size and complexity (multi-million dollar, multi-program organization).
• Direct experience preparing for and supporting external audits; DOL audit experience is a significant plus.
• Previous work with union-affiliated organizations, training funds, or pension/benefit funds is a plus but not required.
• Strong proficiency with QuickBooks required, including reporting, customizations, and integrations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel (advanced formulas, pivot tables, and financial modeling), Outlook, Word, and Teams required.
• Experience with Airtable or similar database/workflow tools preferred.
• Experience with Ramp or similar bill pay/expense management systems preferred.
• Solid understanding of GAAP, nonprofit/fund accounting, and internal control frameworks.

Competencies & Attributes

• High level of integrity, discretion, and commitment to ethical financial stewardship.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen attention to detail.
• Excellent organizational skills; able to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Clear and confident communicator, both written and verbal.
• Comfortable working on-site and collaborating closely with operational and instructional staff.
• Mission-driven mindset and appreciation for the role of skilled trades and union training programs.

Work Environment

This position is based on-site in Greenwood, Indiana; it is 100% in person to optimize team collaboration. Standard work schedule is full-time, Monday–Friday, with occasional evening or weekend hours for meetings, audits, or special events as needed.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary of $105,000 - $115,000
• 100% employer-paid health insurance
• Generous paid time off and holidays
• Employer retirement contribution