Assistant Controller
Confidential
Posted: January 30, 2026
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Quick Summary
As an Assistant Controller at PanCAN, you will be responsible for ensuring the financial excellence of our organization, working closely with our research team to develop and implement financial strategies that support our mission to fight pancreatic cancer.
Required Skills
Job Description
CPA License Required
Transform Lives Through Financial Excellence
Every number tells a story. Every financial statement represents hope. Every accounting process you perfect helps us accelerate research, support patients, and save lives.
At the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN), we're not just fighting cancer—we're demanding better for patients. As our Assistant Controller, you'll be a strategic force behind our mission, ensuring every dollar donated creates maximum impact in the fight against one of the deadest and most underfunded cancers.
Your Impact
This isn't your typical accounting role. You'll be the financial backbone supporting breakthrough research, patient services, and advocacy efforts that are changing the trajectory of pancreatic cancer. Your expertise in GAAP compliance, grant/nonprofit accounting, and financial reporting will directly enable our mission to improve patient outcomes and create a world in which all pancreatic cancer patients will thrive.
What You'll Lead
Financial Excellence & Strategy
Own the integrity of our financial statements, ensuring flawless GAAP compliance while supporting mission-critical programs
Direct month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes with precision and efficiency
Transform complex financial data into clear, actionable insights for leadership decision-making
Architect accounting processes that scale with our growing impact
Team Leadership & Development
Mentor and inspire a dedicated accounting team of three professionals
Build a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and mission alignment
Develop talent that understands both the numbers and the story they tell
Strategic Partnership
Collaborate with the Controller to resolve sophisticated accounting and tax challenges
Partner with external auditors to ensure seamless audit experiences (Form 990 and beyond)
Serve as the go-to expert on nonprofit revenue recognition and grant compliance
Champion internal controls that protect donor trust and organizational integrity
Mission-Critical Revenue Management
Ensure donor contributions are recognized with accuracy and gratitude
Master the complexities of ASC 606, ASC 958-605, and nonprofit accounting standards
Provide expert guidance on donor agreements and conditional vs. unconditional gifts
Keep fundraising teams equipped to maximize every donation's impact
What You Bring
Essential Qualifications (Please read carefully before applying):
Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field (CPA strongly preferred) or equivalent combination of education, training and practical experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities required.
Minimum of 5 years’ experience in the donor centric not-for-profit sector
Strong knowledge of not-for-profit revenue recognition rules for recording of all donations, including cash, pledges, in-kind contributions (goods or services), and other gift forms
Experience coordinating audit activities
Experience driving automation and adopting new technologies
Deep expertise in GAAP, fund accounting, and grant compliance
Proven track record of managing month/quarter/year-end close processes
Experience leading, mentoring, and developing accounting teams
Mastery of accounts payable, receivable, bank reconciliations, and revenue recognition
Strong analytical mindset with exceptional attention to detail
Outstanding communication skills—you make complex accounting accessible
You'll Excel Here If You
Are passionate about mission-driven work and understand nonprofit financial stewardship
Thrive in dynamic environments where priorities can shift to meet urgent needs
Bring innovative solutions to process improvements and efficiency challenges
Balance technical excellence with collaborative leadership
Understand that behind every number is a patient, family member, or supporter
Want your financial expertise to create tangible, life-changing impact
Why Join PanCAN?
Mission That Matters: Your work directly supports research, patient services, and advocacy that's making pancreatic cancer's 13% five-year survival rate history.
Collaborative Culture: Join a passionate, innovative team that values diverse perspectives and celebrates both professional excellence and personal growth.
Professional Growth: Work alongside senior financial leaders who invest in your development and create opportunities for advancement.
We also offer:
Competitive salary range ($115 – $150k annually)
Benefits That Help You Thrive:
PanCAN is committed to supporting our employees’ well-being and financial security with a comprehensive benefits package. Full-time team members enjoy medical, dental, and vision coverage, with a large portion of premiums paid by PanCAN, along with life, disability, and supplemental insurance options. We also provide a 401(k) plan with an immediate company match to help you plan for the future.
We value work-life balance and offer a generous time-off policy—including paid vacation, holidays, sick time, and personal days—to help you rest, recharge, and give back. Plus, with our flexible, remote-friendly work environment and wellness perks, you’ll have the support you need to thrive both personally and professionally.
Ready to Make Numbers Matter?
If you're a financial professional who wants more than a job—if you want a career with purpose—we want to hear from you.
Join us in demanding better for pancreatic cancer patients. Bring your accounting expertise to a mission that urgently needs it.
Apply today and turn your financial acumen into life-saving action.
The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
For more information about our mission and impact, visit pancan.org/careers