Assistant Director of Finance

Lowell Community Health Center (Lowell CHC) is a community-based health care organization. Our programs have been recognized as national models. With a career at Lowell Community Health Center, you will be joining a dynamic team of passionate and talented people.

Position Summary:

The Assistant Director of Finance plays a key leadership role in the finance department, ensuring accurate financial reporting, compliance with GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles), and operational efficiency. This position will oversee financial operations, internal controls, and grant management, supporting the overall financial health of the organization. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in FQHC finance, supervising staff, and driving process improvements to enhance financial performance.

 Essential Functions:

Financial Oversight & Reporting:

• Prepare and analyze financial statements, ensuring accuracy and compliance with GAAP and federal/state regulations.
• Assist in developing and implementing financial policies, procedures, and internal controls to maintain fiscal integrity.
• Oversee monthly close processes, ensuring timely and accurate reconciliations, journal entries, and financial reporting.
• Collaborate with leadership on financial strategy, budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow analysis.

Grant & Contract Management:

• Ensure accurate tracking, reporting, and compliance for federal, state, and private grants, including HRSA requirements.
• Work closely with program managers to monitor grant spending and ensure maximization of funding sources.
• Assist in the preparation of financial reports required by grantors and regulatory agencies.

Operations & Internal Controls:

• Supervise the Accounts Payable, Payroll, and Grants & Contracts functions, ensuring efficiency and compliance.
• Lead process improvements to enhance financial accuracy, reduce inefficiencies, and strengthen internal controls.
• Oversee daily reconciliation of cash transactions, ensuring proper recording and variance resolution.
• Maintain and review the general ledger, supporting documentation, and financial analysis tools.

Leadership & Supervision:

• Directly supervise finance team members, ensuring professional development, accountability, and cross-training to enhance departmental resilience.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration.
• Act as a liaison between finance and other departments, providing financial insights and guidance as needed.

Secondary Functions:

• Support the annual audit process, serving as a key contact for external auditors.
• Assist in preparing the annual organizational budget and cost allocation plans.
• Lead special projects and financial analyses to support strategic decision-making.
• Represent the finance department in interdepartmental meetings and initiatives.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required; CPA or MBA preferred.
• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in an FQHC or healthcare finance role.
• Experience with grants management, third-party billing, and fund accounting required.
• Prior supervisory experience required, with demonstrated ability to lead teams effectively.
• Epic experience preferred.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong understanding of GAAP, financial reporting, and internal controls.
• Proficiency in accounting software, ERP systems, and Excel.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• High level of professionalism, confidentiality, and attention to detail.

Non-Essential Functions:

• Other duties as assigned
• Performs work of equal skill and responsibility as directed.   May also perform work of a higher level in preparation for increased responsibility and may be requested to do work of lesser responsibility when the work load so requires.

Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

• General office setting with occasional need to lift and move items up to 10 pounds.
• Frequent use of a computer and business software applications.
• Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities.