Controller

Seafarers Benefit Plans
Accounting Department
Location: Camp Springs, MD / Washington, DC area

Salary Range: $145,000 - $175,000

Labor related employee benefits plans organization seeks a Controller to lead and direct all accounting operations across multiple locations. This leadership position oversees the accounting department and accounting policy for the organization, supervises accounting staff at two locations with the assistance of an assistant controller and accounting manager, and ensures compliance with all applicable accounting standards and regulations. Reports directly to the Benefit Plans Administrator and Assistant Administrator.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Directly supervises Assistant Controller at headquarters location who oversees 11 employees
• Oversees Accounting Manager at Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, MD, who manages 6 employees
• Responsible for the overall direction, coordination, and evaluation of accounting department operations across all locations

DUTIES:

• Directs and manages all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable and receivable, financial reporting, investment accounting, fixed assets, and sales/inventory/warehouse operations.
• Leads the preparation and review of comprehensive financial statements, reports, and analyses detailing assets, liabilities, net assets, revenue, and expenses. Ensures all financial information complies with GAAP and federal and local regulations governing nonprofit and employee benefit plans organizations.
• Oversees the annual audit, and preparation and filing of all tax returns and regulatory filings, such as form 5500, 990, 941 and 945 filings.
• Manages investment accounting activities, including recording transactions, and ensuring proper reporting of investment portfolios.
• Directs fixed asset management, including acquisition tracking, depreciation schedules, and disposal procedures.
• Oversees sales/inventory/warehouse operations accounting, ensuring accurate tracking of inventory, cost of goods sold, and related financial reporting.
• Develops, implements, and maintains accounting systems, internal controls, policies and procedures to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and compliance. Continuously evaluates and strengthens controls to protect organizational assets.
• Leads the implementation and optimization of accounting software systems, including Sage Intacct and MS Dynamics. Coordinates with IT consultants and vendors on system upgrades, integrations, and customizations.
• Conducts and provides insightful financial analysis to support strategic decision-making by senior leadership.
• Serves as primary liaison with external auditors, coordinating annual audits and ensuring timely resolution of audit findings.
• Mentors and develops accounting staff across all locations, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and professional growth.
• Stays current on changes to accounting standards, tax laws, and regulatory requirements affecting employee benefit plan and non-profit organizations. Ensures organizational compliance with all applicable regulations.
• Represents the accounting department in meetings with trustees, management, and regulatory agencies as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field from an accredited four-year college or university required
• Minimum of seven (7) years of progressive accounting experience, with at least three (3) years in a supervisory or management role is preferred; but any combination of experience and education will be considered.
• CPA certification or demonstrated progress toward CPA certification is highly desired
• Experience with nonprofit and/or labor organization accounting preferred
• Any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities

Skills and Knowledge:

• Expert knowledge of GAAP, with specific expertise in nonprofit accounting standards (ASC 958) and Employee Benefit Plan reporting requirements
• Proven experience in utilizing enterprise accounting systems, specifically Sage Intacct and MS Dynamics
• Strong knowledge of investment accounting principles and practices
• Thorough understanding of fixed asset accounting, including depreciation methods and capital expenditure analysis
• Experience with sales/inventory/warehouse operations accounting and internal controls
• Exceptional analytical skills with ability to interpret complex financial data and provide strategic insights
• Demonstrated leadership ability with experience managing multi-location accounting teams
• Strong project management skills with proven ability to lead multiple initiatives simultaneously
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with ability to explain complex financial concepts to non-financial professionals
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications
• Strong attention to detail with commitment to accuracy and integrity
• Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and make decisions in accordance with organizational policies
• Proven ability to meet strict deadlines and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment

Travel and Work Hours:

• Travel required between headquarters location and Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, MD
• Extended work hours, including occasional weekend work, may be required during peak periods such as audit season, financial statement preparation, and regulatory filing deadlines

TO APPLY:

Please submit résumé and cover letter to hr@seafarers.org

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. The employer is an equal opportunity employer of individuals with disabilities and protected veterans.