Deputy Controller of Accounting

Overview

Boston’s Planning Department was established by Mayor Wu in 2024 to restore planning as a core function of the City government and to shape growth that serves Boston’s residents and centers on their needs. Our mission is to address our City’s greatest challenges: resilience, affordability, and equity; we take real estate actions and prioritize planning, development, and urban design solutions that further these priorities. We seek to build trust with communities through transparent processes that embrace predictable growth.

Delivering on this mission requires a modern, high-performing financial function grounded in accuracy, transparency, and strong internal controls. Under the direction of the Controller, the Deputy Controller of Accounting plays a critical role in strengthening the Department’s accounting infrastructure and ensuring reliable financial reporting that supports operational and strategic decision-making.

Responsibilities

General duties include, but are not limited to:

Accounting Operations & Financial Reporting

• Oversee all day-to-day accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and fixed assets.
• Identify and prepare information necessary to reclassify revenue and expenses; make recommendations to the supervisor; book journal entries as needed.
• Reconcile complex accounts and resolve discrepancies to maintain accuracy and compliance.
• Collaborate with departments on financial reporting needs and interpretation of data.
• Coordinate and support external audits; lead staff preparation for audits and foster working relationships with auditors.

Internal Controls, Systems & Compliance

• Evaluate, enhance, and help implement internal controls, accounting standards, and financial policies.
• Support improvements and troubleshooting of accounting systems and related financial tools.
• Ensure ongoing compliance with GASB 87 and other governmental accounting requirements; coordinate with auditors on lease accounting documentation.

Treasury Support & Financial Analysis

• Support management of cash flow, liquidity, and short- and long-term investment monitoring.
• Collaborate with departments to meet financial reporting needs and help interpret financial data.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Supervise, coach, and develop accounting staff; monitor performance and ensure accuracy of work.
• Coordinate cross-departmental financial activities, deadlines, and reporting.
• Assist in the preparation of operating and capital budgets.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Controller.

Minimum Entrance Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred, and may substitute for three (3) years of experience. CPA preferred.
• 6+ years of progressively responsible accounting experience required. 2+ years of supervisory experience required.
• Demonstrated experience in public-sector finance and governmental accounting standards.
• Proficiency in accounting systems and Microsoft Excel, Word, and Google Workspace.
• Experience with project management tools such as Airtable or Salesforce preferred.
• Focused attention to detail, deadlines, and adherence to ethical application of accounting standards.
• Must exercise discretion and sound judgment, and handle confidential and sensitive information with integrity.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and the public good.

BOSTON RESIDENCY REQUIRED

Terms:

Union/Salary/Grade: EXM/($116,530 - $153,250)

Hours per week: 35