Controller | Remote in Michigan

Clean Water Action is a national, grassroots environmental organization that seeks to protect the environment and safeguard public health, promote passage of strong environmental laws, and help communities address local environmental problems affecting them. Clean Water Fund provides research, education, organizing, and technical assistance to strengthen grassroots environmental efforts around the country, promoting the public interest on issues related to water, natural resources, health, and a healthy economy. Clean Water Action and Clean Water Fund work together on selected campaigns and programs. 

Clean Water Action and Clean Water Fund seeks a detail-oriented and strategic Controller to oversee financial operations and drive transparency and compliance in alignment with our nonprofit mission. Reporting directly to the CFAO, the Controller will manage day-to-day accounting activities, ensure timely and accurate financial reporting, and support audit readiness.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting functions including general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and cash flow.

• Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.

• Lead and coordinate annual financial audits and Form 990 filings.

• Develop, refine, and maintain internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure fiscal accountability.

• Oversee fund accounting, including tracking of restricted and unrestricted funds, grant compliance, and donor-mandated reporting, leveraging Blackbaud Financial Edge NXT and Raiser’s Edge for integration between finance and development.

• Partner with the CFAO and program teams to support budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.

• Supervise and mentor finance team members to promote a collaborative, learning-oriented environment.

• Evaluate and optimize financial systems and processes, advocating for efficiency and scalability.

• Assist in presenting financial updates to leadership and the board’s finance/audit committee as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or business.

• 5–7 years of progressive accounting experience, including nonprofit finance and fund accounting.

• Deep knowledge of nonprofit accounting standards (FASB, GAAP) and experience preparing Form 990.

• Strong proficiency with Blackbaud Financial Edge NXT, Raiser’s Edge, and other accounting systems; advanced Excel skills required.

• Familiarity with fund accounting, donor database integration, and grant management systems.

• Demonstrated ability to manage audits, oversee budgeting processes, and develop financial reporting dashboards.

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex financial data for non-financial staff and board members.

• Self-starter with a high degree of organization, attention to detail, and integrity.

• Alignment with Clean Water Action / Clean Water Fund’s mission and values, with a passion for environmental justice.

Salary

Salary Ranges from $85,000 to $93,000 commensurate with experience.

Benefits:

• Remote work flexibility; preference for Michigan-based candidates to align with regional operations.

• Robust benefits including health insurance, 401K, generous paid time off, and professional development support.

• Opportunities to engage directly with programmatic leadership and contribute to impactful organizational strategy.

Internal candidates should speak with their supervisor first before submitting an application. 

 Clean Water Action and Clean Water Fund value a diverse workplace. People of color and those from economically disadvantaged communities are particularly encouraged to apply. Clean Water Action is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.