Assistant Director of Finance & Federal Programs

Sussex County Public Schools

Position Title: Assistant Director of Finance & Federal Programs

Reports To:                         Director of Finance & Operations

Salary:                                Commensurate with Experience

FLSA Status:                      Exempt

Work Schedule:                 12 Months-250 Days

Position Summary:

The Assistant Director of Finance & Federal Programs supports the Director of Finance & Operations in overseeing the financial management and federal programs of Sussex County Public Schools. This position ensures the accurate and compliant administration of federal, state, and local funds while maintaining efficient financial operations aligned with the district’s strategic goals. The role requires a high level of technical proficiency, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist in the development, implementation, and monitoring of the school division's annual budget, including federal program budgets.
• Oversee the management and reporting of federal and state grant funds, ensuring compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
• Prepare and review financial reports, forecasts, and reconciliations to support decision-making.
• Monitor expenditures and revenue, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and alignment with approved budgets.
• Collaborate with school and department leaders to provide guidance on financial planning and grant management.
• Assist with audits and ensure proper internal controls are in place and functioning effectively.
• Maintain accurate and timely financial records in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
• Support procurement processes and contracts to ensure fiscal responsibility and compliance.
• Use financial systems and accounting software to enter and manage financial data.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Finance & Operations.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Demonstrated proficiency in accounting software, financial reporting systems, and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• General understanding of GAAP, federal grant regulations, and relevant financial laws.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in a school division, public agency, or related organization.
• Knowledge of federal education funding programs (e.g., Title Grants, IDEA, ESSER, Etc…).
• Master’s degree or professional certification (e.g., CPA, CGFM) is a plus.

Work Environment:

This is a full-time, on-site administrative position located at the central office. The role requires occasional travel to schools and external meetings.

Physical Requirements:

Demonstrate overall good health.  Demonstrate ability to communicate in a clear, concise manner with others.

Evaluation:

Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Sussex County School Board’s policy on Evaluation of Certified Personnel.

An Equal Opportunity Employer

The Sussex County School Board is an equal opportunity employer; as such, it does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, religion, political affiliation, handicapping condition, or sex in its educational programs or employment.  No person shall be denied employment solely because of any impairment which is unrelated to the ability to engage in activities involved in the position or program to which application has been made.