Accounting Manager

The Accounting Manager is responsible for the oversight, accuracy, and integrity of all financial and accounting operations to ensure the Wellesley Municipal Light Plant’s (MLP) financial position remains strong, stable, and compliant. Reporting to the MLP Director/Assistant Director/Business Manager, this role manages the preparation of financial statements, audits, general ledger functions, payroll, bank reconciliations, accounts payable, budget reports, and financial forecasts. The Accounting Manager ensures full compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Governmental Accounting Standards (GASB), Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulations, Massachusetts General Laws, and Department of Public Utilities (DPU) requirements.

 In addition to managing the MLP’s general accounting and financial reporting processes, the Accounting Manager oversees payroll, accounts payable, utility billing, and capital asset accounting; coordinates annual audits and regulatory filings; and supports budgeting, forecasting, and rate planning. This position provides leadership, supervision, and professional development to accounting and administrative staff, fostering a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement. The Accounting Manager also collaborates closely with the Town of Wellesley’s Finance and IT departments, serving as a key liaison for system enhancements and as the MLP’s subject matter expert in the implementation and integration of new enterprise systems for customer information, billing, payroll, and asset management. Through strategic insight and sound financial management, this role plays a vital part in sustaining the MLP’s operational efficiency and long-term financial health. 

Requirements of the position: The ideal candidate will hold a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field, with at least five years of progressively responsible financial or accounting experience—preferably in a municipal utility or governmental environment— and a minimum of two years in a supervisory role. Candidates should have a strong understanding of GAAP and GASB standards, financial reporting, and auditing practices, along with proficiency in municipal enterprise systems (such as TylerTech MUNIS), advanced Microsoft Excel, and database applications. Success in this role requires exceptional analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills; attention to detail; and the ability to interpret and apply complex regulatory requirements. Strong communication, interpersonal, and leadership abilities, combined with the capacity to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment, are essential. 

The Town of Wellesley provides excellent health and retirement benefits along with a competitive salary for its employees. Please submit a cover letter and resume to: Wellesley Municipal Light Plant, Attn: Andrea Austin, 4 Municipal Way, Wellesley, MA 02481 or email as a WORD or PDF document to aaustin@wellesleyma.gov. AA/EOE. Salary range: $94,500 - $134,500 per year depending on experience.