Controller

City of Boulder
CONTROLLER

The Position
The City of Boulder is seeking a highly skilled and collaborative Controller to lead, manage, and
coordinate all accounting, treasury, and debt functions and processes for the city. This important role
operates under broad policy and/or general direction, ensuring the city’s financial operations are efficient,
effective, and compliant with all applicable regulations. While some accounting functions are
decentralized within other city departments, the Controller plays a crucial role in coordinating these
efforts and ensuring citywide financial integrity.

A significant aspect of the role is managing the city’s financial reporting function, including the
preparation of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), reviewing financial transactions,
completing monthly closes, and continuously updating knowledge regarding Governmental Accounting
Standards and requirements for the ACFR. This position oversees internal finance staff and coordinates
with finance leads in departments regarding internal controls, accounts payable, purchasing programs,
and all accounting issues as needed. In consultation with the Assistant Controller, this position develops
and implements systems to test compliance with city financial policies and procedures for related
activities.

The Controller is a balanced, hands-on leader who thrives in a collaborative, team-centered environment.
The successful candidate provides efficient and effective leadership across the organization and embraces
a continuous improvement philosophy. With a forward-looking approach to accounting and financial
management, the Controller is committed to operational excellence and providing services through a
customer-centric approach.

The Controller brings prior experience in both the private and public sectors and truly enjoys working for
municipal organizations. They are skilled in navigating a hybrid financial model incorporating
centralized and decentralized functions. Advanced knowledge of accounting standards such as GASB
and Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) is essential to success.
With strong people skills and a supportive, approachable demeanor, the Controller fosters a culture of
growth and continuous learning by mentoring staff, encouraging cross-training, and empowering team
members through thoughtful delegation. The successful candidate is a working manager who enjoys
being a resource for their team, welcoming the exchange of ideas, and providing constructive feedback to
bring out the best in others.

Qualifications
Five or more years of governmental accounting or auditing experience is required, with at least five years
of supervisory experience essential, including strong leadership and mentoring skills. A diverse
accounting background, including a thorough understanding of the chart of accounts, grants, and federal
grant management, is required, as is knowledge of and experience conducting audits or establishing
auditing procedures and systems. Experience in compiling a full ACFR is essential, as is experience with
treasury and debt management functions. A strong understanding of technology, including experience
with Workday, is beneficial.

A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field is required. A
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is required, and a Certified Public Finance Officer
(CPFO) designation is beneficial.

Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe
they can perform every job description task. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the
job, and that candidate may come from a less traditional background. The city will consider any
equivalent combination of knowledge, skills, education, and experience to meet minimum qualifications.
If you are interested in applying, we encourage you to think broadly about your background and skill set
for the role.

Compensation and Benefits
The salary range for the Controller is $124,696 – $187,054, with an anticipated hiring range of $124,696 –
$162,111, and will depend on the qualifications of the successful candidate. The city recognizes the
importance of providing an encompassing health and life benefits program to employees, including
Hybrid Work, Flex Schedules, Telehealth and Wellness Incentives, Infants and Dogs at Work Program,
Local bus Eco-Pass, and an Employee Discount Program on goods and services throughout the Boulder
Community. Additional information can be viewed here.

How to Apply
Applications will be accepted electronically by Raftelis at jobs.crelate.com. Applicants complete a brief
online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. Open until filled.