Accounting Manager (Limited Duration 24-36 months)

The Port of Portland is looking for an Accounting Manager (Limited Duration, 24-36 months).

Join the Port of Portland during a pivotal moment of transformation! We are seeking a Limited Duration Accounting Manager to help lead day-to-day accounting operations while the organization implements a new enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. This is a unique opportunity to make an immediate impact by helping ensure the stability and integrity of financial operations during a major modernization effort that will shape how the Port works for years to come.

In this role, you'll partner closely with the Controller to support corporate accounting activities and oversee the Port's general ledger function. You'll lead a team of accounting professionals responsible for core financial operations, maintain strong internal controls and accounting policies, and support the financial reporting that informs leadership and Commission decision-making. Your leadership will help ensure continuity and operational stability as the organization transitions to a new financial system.

Why This Matters

The Port of Portland connects people, goods, and communities through critical regional infrastructure-from Portland International Airport to marine terminals and economic development initiatives. Behind these operations is a strong financial foundation. During this period of system transformation, your leadership will help ensure the Port continues to operate with accuracy, accountability, and public trust while building the financial systems that will support its future.

You'll join a collaborative, mission-driven finance team working at the center of an organization that helps power the region's economy and mobility.

This is a full-time, limited-duration role (expected 24-36 months) supporting the finance team during the ERP implementation. The duration of the role may be subject to change based on business needs. This is a hybrid position with in-office work expected Tues-Thurs.

Corporate Accounting & Financial Reporting

• Partner with the Controller to lead corporate accounting activities and ensure accurate, timely financial reporting.
• Oversee preparation of financial reports and analysis that support executive leadership and Commission decision-making.
• Lead coordination of the Port's annual financial audit and serve as the primary liaison with external auditors.
• Provide guidance on accounting treatment for complex or non-routine transactions and maintain strong accounting policies and internal controls.

Compliance, Funding & Financial Stewardship

• Provide technical accounting expertise to support compliance with grants, bond covenants, and other external funding requirements.
• Prepare the Port's annual cost allocation plan and support financial reporting related to corporate borrowing and other funding activities.

Accounting Team Leadership

• Lead and supervise the accounting team responsible for general ledger operations and core financial processes.
• Set priorities, review work for accuracy and compliance with GAAP and Port policy, and support staff development through coaching and training.

Financial Systems & ERP Support

• Provide subject-matter expertise on financial systems and the general ledger structure, including oversight of the chart of accounts.
• Partner with Finance and IT leadership to support the transition to a new ERP system and ensure continuity of financial processes and reporting.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a closely related field (Master's degree preferred).
  • Or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
• At least 5 years of progressively responsible accounting experience, including preparation of comprehensive financial reports (required).
• At least 3 years of experience managing an accounting function, leading teams, and ensuring operational continuity (required).
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles and financial reporting requirements (governmental accounting experience preferred).
• CPA certification or candidacy (preferred).

Selection Process (tentative schedule):

About us:

At the Port of Portland, we use everything we have - our three airports, three working marine terminals, six business parks, and all the resources, expertise, and experience behind them - to move with purpose, connecting people with powerful opportunities and creating value for our region. We know that every person we hire, business we work with, contract we sign and decision we make is a chance to make someone's life better. And we'll use our power and influence to unlock new opportunities and ensure more people share in our region's success. With YOUR help - together with our partners, customers, and community - we'll help drive meaningful change!

Do you have questions about this job?

Contact us: careers@portofportland.com

Safety: The Port promotes safety as a Core value and we seek to eliminate harm through a culture of active prevention, curiosity, evaluation, and action. We comply with safety and health policies and procedures and consistently look for improvements that support operational excellence.

Equal Opportunity Employer: The Port of Portland is dedicated to maintaining and improving a work environment, which extends equal opportunity to all individuals, regardless of their race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability or sexual orientation. Employment decisions shall be made in such a manner as to further the principle of equal employment opportunity and to comply with state, federal and local laws. We affirm through this policy statement our continuing commitment to the principles of nondiscrimination.

Veterans Preference: Under Oregon law, qualified veterans may be eligible for veterans' preference when applying for Port of Portland positions. If you are a veteran and would like to be considered for a veteran's preference for this job, please provide the qualifying documents as instructed during the application process.

Background Checks and Drug Testing: The Port of Portland will conduct background checks and/or drug tests for positions where such tests are required by regulation and for other safety-sensitive positions.

ADA Accommodation: Accommodations will be considered for applicants or candidates with a qualifying disability that prevents them from participating in this process. Accommodations will be made where the Port can reasonably do so without imposing an undue hardship on the business or compromising the integrity of the recruitment process. An applicant with any disability who believes that they need an accommodation should contact Human Resources: call 503-415-6690 or email careers@portofportland.com.

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