Deputy City Controller at City of Pittsburgh, PA

About the Department

The Deputy Controller plays a key leadership role in the City of Pittsburgh’s Controller’s Office, serving as the second-in-command and ensuring the effective management of operations and financial oversight. This position is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day functions of the office, managing staff, and supporting the elected Controller in advancing the mission of safeguarding fiscal health, promoting responsible City governance, and acting in the public interest. The Deputy Controller will also contribute to the office’s auditing, accounting, contract management, and policy initiatives, while working closely with senior leadership to ensure continuity and professionalism across the organization. 

Department: Controller's Office
Salary:  $117,312 per year.
Posting Type:  Announcement
Union: None, this is a non-union position.
Civil Service Classification:  Exempt

Position Duties

General Application Requirements:

You must submit or show proof of all of the following at the time of filing your application (unless otherwise indicated below) or your application will be disqualified. Disqualifications based on any of these General Application Requirements are not subject to a Civil Service appeal.

• Applicants must submit a complete application including education, work experience, a resume (if applicable) and completed supplemental questions.
• Applicants must become residents of the City of Pittsburgh prior to employment and must remain a resident throughout employment.
  • Click here to view a map of the City of Pittsburgh neighborhoods.

• WORK EXPERIENCE: The application must clearly show seven (7) years of full-time senior management experience with three (3) years managing 30 or more direct reports.  A strong background in finance, government, or a related field is preferred. A demonstrated commitment to community involvement and public service is preferred.  (Less than full-time experience will be calculated on a pro-rated basis.)
• EDUCATION/TRAINING: The application must clearly show a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Communications, Government Affairs, Public Policy, or a related field. (See NOTE under the General Application Requirements Section above regarding the verification of education/training).
• EQUIVALENCY:  Education/training and/or work experience may be substituted on a year-for-year basis if the application clearly shows the required number of years to meet the Total Qualifying Requirement for this position (based on the sum of work experience and education/training listed above).  The Total Qualifying Requirement is eleven (11) years.  (See NOTE under the General Application Requirements Section above regarding the verification of education/training).

Minimum Qualifications

If you meet the qualifying requirements listed above, you will be sent a letter of admission (when applicable) for the following examination(s).  You must pass the written and/or performance examination(s) in order to have your name placed on the official Civil Service eligibility list for this position.  Candidates who receive job offers must pass a medical examination (when applicable) prior to start date.

• Written: None required for this position.
• Performance: None required for this position.
• Medical: None required for this position.

Other Qualifications

• Approves and signs wires as required. 
• Participates in internal budget discussions, provides insights and support. 
• Provides guidance and support in resolving departmental disagreements. 
• Signs explanatory forms and approves purchase orders. 
• Coordinates on audit report deliverables. 
• Assists in entrance and exit meetings related to audits, when necessary. 
• Assists in resolving departmental disputes related to contracts and agreements. 
• Serves as the primary point of contact for internal procurement matters and collaborates with the Procurement Office. 
• Manages, coaches, and trains staff, ensuring smooth operation of daily activities and ad hoc projects. 
• Oversees office HR processes, including employee mediation, reprimands, and interviews for new hires. 
• Supports in the maintenance of the Controller’s schedule, preparation of press events, and management of internal and external inquiries. 
• Steps in as the acting Controller for meetings and events when the Controller is unavailable. 
• Maintains and strengthens relationships with City department heads to promote effective communication and collaboration. 
• Provides support and/or coordination in the planning, writing, and review of the Transmittal Letter for the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and production and submission of the Popular Annual Financial Report. 
• Helps certify forecasted revenue from the Office of Management and Budget. 
• Stays informed on local news and public interest to propose special audits and reports. 
• Advise the Controller on financial strategies, risk management, and communication plans to align office goals with broader City priorities. 
• Formulates both short- and long-term objectives, regularly monitoring and adjusting plans as needed. 
• Oversees the office’s financial systems and work with the IT department to ensure the integrity and performance of technology and cybersecurity protocols. 
• Ensures compliance with all state laws and Charter requirements governing financial independence, City governance, and fiscal oversight. 
• Attends the annual Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) conference once every term, if able.