Controller

Job Category: Business and finance
Job Type: Full Time
Job Location: CA Sausalito United States

About Us

The Marine Mammal Center advances ocean health through rescue and rehabilitation, veterinary science, conservation research, and education. We are global leaders in marine mammal care and ocean conservation, dedicated to making a lasting impact on the health of our planet.

Our work is guided by values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and growth. We believe in empowering people from all backgrounds to thrive and contribute to our mission.

Position Overview

Title: Controller
Location: Marin Headlands, Sausalito, California (Hybrid; onsite 2–3 days per week, typically Wed & Fri)
Compensation: $108,160 – $143,590 annually
Schedule: Full-time, exempt; expected Sept 2025 – May 2026 (may extend based on organizational needs)

The Controller oversees all aspects of The Marine Mammal Center’s accounting function, including general ledger management, revenue/expense tracking, payroll, month-end close, audits, and tax filings. This role ensures compliance with GAAP and regulatory standards, strengthens internal controls, and supports leadership with timely financial reporting.

The Controller will lead and mentor a small finance team while collaborating across departments to enable effective program operations and long-term organizational success.

Key Responsibilities

General Ledger & Accounting (40%)

  • Manage day-to-day accounting operations (AP, AR, payroll, journal entries, reconciliations).

  • Oversee month-end close; produce timely, accurate financial statements.

  • Lead year-end close, audits, and IRS Form 990 filings.

  • Monitor cash balances, reconcile bank accounts, and ensure strong internal controls.

Internal Controls & Systems (25%)

  • Develop, implement, and maintain financial controls.

  • Identify process improvements to enhance accuracy and efficiency.

  • Manage and optimize accounting systems (Financial Edge, Adaptive Insights, Paylocity).

  • Support budget preparation, forecasting, and reporting.

Leadership & Management (10%)

  • Hire, train, and mentor finance staff (Senior Accountant, Payroll & Accounting Specialist).

  • Provide departmental vision, strategic planning, and performance management.

  • Foster a collaborative, positive team culture.

Budget & Fundraising Support (10%)

  • Develop and monitor organizational budgets.

  • Analyze performance against targets; recommend adjustments.

  • Provide financial insights to support grants, fundraising, and donor stewardship.

Organizational Impact (10%)

  • Collaborate with senior management and executive leadership on financial strategies.

  • Participate in board/committee meetings and organization-wide initiatives.

Other Duties (5%)

  • Special projects and assignments as needed.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.

  • 10+ years of progressive accounting experience; nonprofit experience preferred.

  • CPA license strongly preferred.

  • Expertise in nonprofit GAAP, internal controls, multi-state payroll tax, and government grants.

  • Demonstrated leadership experience building and guiding finance teams.

  • Proficiency with accounting systems (Financial Edge, Adaptive Insights, Paylocity) and Microsoft Office Suite.

  • Strong analytical, communication, and organizational skills.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance

  • Life and disability coverage

  • 401(k) retirement plan

  • Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave

  • Employee Assistance Program

Diversity & Inclusion

The Marine Mammal Center is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We strongly encourage applications from people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals, veterans, parents, and people with disabilities. We believe a diverse team is essential to achieving our mission.


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