Description

About Us
School Services of California Inc. (SSC) is the state’s premier business, financial, management, and advocacy resource for educational agencies. For over five decades, SSC has been a trusted partner to school districts, county offices of education, charter schools, and community colleges, providing expert guidance and forward-thinking solutions that support the success of California’s public education system. SSC is a 100% employee-owned company through its Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). 

About the Role
SSC is seeking an experienced Controller to lead the company’s accounting operations and ensure the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of all financial reporting. This hands-on role oversees daily financial and office operations, safeguards company assets, enhances internal systems and controls, and delivers strategic financial insights to support executive decision-making and organizational growth. The ideal candidate is a proactive, results-driven professional with strong technical expertise and a collaborative mindset—ready to make an impact in a dynamic and employee-owned organization.

Position Summary:

The Controller will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the office and the entire accounting operation, ensuring the integrity and accuracy of financial data, compliance with accounting standards, and timely reporting. This role requires a proactive and hands-on professional who can manage and participate in day-to-day operations and accounting activities, develop and maintain robust internal controls, manage a small accounting department through technology advancements, manage office support staff, and collaborate closely with leadership to support financial planning and operational efficiency. The Controller will play a critical role in safeguarding company assets and providing actionable financial insights to drive business growth.

Essential Job Duties/Responsibilities:

Accounting Operations

• Manage and supervise all accounting functions including general ledger maintenance, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll processing, project-based client billing, and bank reconciliations.  
• Oversee office support staff to maintain coherence of day-to-day operations.
• Ensure accurate and timely recording of all financial transactions in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).  
• Review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.  
• Oversee the month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring deadlines are met and financial data is accurate and complete.  
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of changes in accounting standards and regulatory requirements, implementing necessary changes to policies and procedures.  
• Calculate bonuses on a regular basis and communicate amounts owed to management.
• Manage the ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) and Pension plans for the company, including working with external auditors, processing annual distributions, completing required Internal Revenue Services and Employment Development Division paperwork, and preparing year end contribution calculations

Internal Controls and Risk Management  

• Design, implement, and monitor internal control systems to safeguard company assets and ensure the accuracy and reliability of financial information.  
• Identify potential financial risks and recommend mitigation strategies to management.  
• Conduct periodic reviews of financial processes to identify inefficiencies and recommend improvements.  

Budgeting and Forecasting  

• Assist management in the development of annual budgets and periodic financial forecasts.  
• Monitor actual financial performance against budget and provide variance analysis and explanations.  
• Support cash flow management and working capital optimization to ensure the company’s financial stability.  

Team Leadership and Development  

• Supervise and mentor accounting staff, fostering professional growth and ensuring high performance.  
• Develop and maintain clear accounting policies and procedures, providing training and guidance to staff as needed.  
• Lead change management initiatives in the department by demonstrating willingness to embrace technology adoption and process efficiency.  

Collaboration and Communication  

• Work closely with senior leadership to provide financial insights and support strategic decision-making.  
• Communicate complex financial information clearly and effectively to non-financial interest holders.  
• Coordinate with external partners including banks, auditors, tax advisors, and software vendors. 

What We Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits
• Unlimited paid time off
• Annual company contribution to employee ESOP accounts and pension plans
• Position eligible for a hybrid work model (based in Sacramento). The incumbent will be required to report to the office on designated in-person workdays as established by the company. On other days, remote work from the incumbent’s home office may be permitted at the discretion of the employer. 
• A collaborative, mission-driven, and employee-owned work environment

Join Us!
This is an exceptional opportunity for a skilled financial professional to lead with purpose, advance operational excellence, and contribute to the continued success of an organization dedicated to serving California’s educational agencies. 

Requirements

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field is required; CPA or CMA certification is preferred.  
• Minimum of five years of progressive accounting experience.
• Experience as a Controller, Chief Financial Officer, or equivalent role is desired.
• Comprehensive knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting standards, and regulatory compliance.  
• Proven experience managing full-cycle accounting operations, month-end close, and external audits.  
• Strong proficiency in accounting software and advanced Microsoft Excel skills. Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems is a plus.  
• Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.  
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on process improvement.  
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, capable of working collaboratively across departments and with external partners and clients.  
• High level of integrity and commitment to confidentiality.  

To apply, click "Apply" link above, or visit: SSC Career Opportunities. You will be required to submit a cover letter and current resume.