Assistant Controller

ASSISTANT CONTROLLER

The Challenge Program, a nonprofit organization that partners with businesses to motivate high school students to excel, is seeking an Assistant Controller to join our mission-driven team and help steward the financial health of our organization. This isn't just about balancing books—it's about ensuring every dollar we manage goes further in serving students and strengthening our community partnerships.

At The Challenge Program, we don't just connect businesses with schools—we connect purpose with opportunity. Every day, our team works to bridge the gap between high school students and the business community, creating pathways that transform young lives and strengthen our local economy.

We are a small but mighty nonprofit driven by a shared belief: that every student deserves access to real-world opportunities, and every business benefits from investing in the next generation. If you are an accounting professional who wants your work to mean something, this is your opportunity.

The Role

Working directly with our CFO, you will oversee day-to-day accounting operations, maintain strong internal controls, and play a key role in budgeting, forecasting, and audit preparation. You will be the financial backbone that allows our team to focus on what we do best: creating opportunities for young people.

Responsibilities and Duties:

Financial Operations and Reporting

• Manage daily accounting functions including AP, AR, payroll, and general ledger
• Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements
• Reconcile accounts and ensure accuracy across all financial data
• Monitor cash flow and support treasury activities

Strategic Support

• Assist in developing annual budgets and forecasts
• Provide variance analysis and insights to guide decision-making
• Forecast and monitor grant budgets across programs

Streamline accounting systems and improve processes

Compliance and Relationships

• Ensure compliance with all financial and contract reporting requirements
• Support internal and external audit preparation
• Maintain relationships with vendors, auditors, banks, and financial institutions
• Coordinate cross-departmental communication on financial matters

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Accounting
• 2-3 years of accounting experience
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting principles
• Proficiency in QuickBooks Online and Microsoft Excel
• Valid drivers license and reliable transportation

You'll Thrive Here If You:

• Are detail-oriented with exceptional analytical skills
• Can work independently and take initiative
• Excel at building relationships across all organizational levels
• Have strong leadership and team-building abilities
• Can communicate complex financial information clearly
• Are comfortable in a fast-paced, hands-on environment

Want to be part of something bigger than yourself

Position Details:

• Full-time, exempt position
• On-site at our Johnstown, PA headquarters
• Hours are M-F 8:30AM - 5PM
• Occasional evening or weekend work for special events

Great benefit package, including PTO, medical, dental and vision with 401K (employer match immediately)