Controller in Vista, California at New Haven Youth

New Haven Youth & Family Services is seeking a hands-on Controller to lead and manage the financial operations of our nonprofit organization serving at-risk youth and families.

We are seeking a highly hands-on Controller to join our small team of two (2). This strategic and very tactical role partners closely with the CEO to strengthen financial sustainability, support program growth, manage cash flow, and contribute to revenue strategy.

The Controller is directly responsible for preparing all financial reports, developing and monitoring budgets, implementing and maintaining strong internal controls, active, day-to-day involvement in accounting operations and serving as the primary liaison to external auditors. This role ensures financial integrity, transparency, and compliance with nonprofit accounting standards while supporting the organization’s mission and long-term stability.

This is a key leadership role that partners directly with the CEO and blends strategic financial oversight with You will not only guide financial strategy—you will work within the systems, support core accounting functions, and ensure accuracy, compliance, and stability across the organization.

• Lead all accounting and financial operations in accordance with GAAP and nonprofit standards
• Prepare financial statements, budgets, forecasts, and board-level reporting
• Oversee grants, contracts, compliance, audits, and internal controls
• Manage cash flow, AP/AR, banking, and financial reporting processes
• Work directly in accounting systems to support reconciliations, reporting, and daily financial operations
• Partner with the CEO on financial strategy, planning, and organizational growth
• Supervise and support accounting staff and provide guidance to program leaders

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required
• CPA and/or Master’s Degree preferred
• 10+ years of progressive accounting and financial management experience
• Strong nonprofit and grant-funded accounting experience preferred
• Experience with budgeting, audits, contracts, and compliance
• Comfortable in a hands-on role with both strategic and operational responsibilities
• Strong leadership, communication, and analytical skills
• Ability to thrive in a small, mission-driven team environment

• Mission-driven work with real community impact
• Direct partnership with executive leadership
• Opportunity to shape and strengthen organizational financial systems
• Competitive salary based on experience
• Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision, 403(b), FSA, and 4 weeks of vacation
• Meaningful work supporting youth and families every day

Benefits:

New Haven Youth and Family Services is an EOE F/M/Disabled/Vet