What We Offer!
Please see our website for more information on our benefits. Key benefits include:
Health Insurance – includes medical, dental, vision and prescriptions
Generous Paid Time Off
Pension plan through MERS (defined benefit retirement plan)
Pre-tax retirement savings plan (457)
Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
A positive, team-oriented work culture
Childcare cost-sharing (we participate in Tri-Share)
Short- and Long-Term Disability
Life Insurance (voluntary, dependent, spouse)
Paid Holidays
Monthly cell phone stipends
Guide Financial Excellence in Public Transportation!
Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA) is seeking an experienced and strategic Finance Director to serve as a key member of our leadership team. Reporting directly to the Executive Director, the Finance Director will oversee all financial operations and play a critical role in ensuring the organization’s financial stability, transparency, and long-term sustainability.
This role is ideal for a seasoned finance professional who thrives in a mission-driven, public-sector environment and enjoys partnering with executive leadership, governing boards, and department leaders to support informed decision-making.
What You’ll Do
As Finance Director, you will serve as BATA’s chief financial officer and chief accountant, providing oversight, leadership, and strategic insight across all financial functions.
Key responsibilities include:
Lead all accounting, budgeting, financial reporting, audit, and compliance activities in accordance with GAAP and governmental accounting standards
Ensure accurate and timely month-end and year-end closings, general ledger maintenance, reconciliations, and journal entries
Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports to executive leadership and the Board, including reliable cash-flow projections
Develop, manage, and revise the annual operating budget and capital plan; perform cost-of-service analyses and budget variance reporting
Establish and maintain strong internal controls, policies, procedures, and segregation of duties
Oversee grants accounting, billing, and compliance, including quarterly and annual reporting to MDOT
Lead preparation for financial and governmental audits and serve as a primary point of contact for auditors
Supervise, coach, and develop accounting staff; participate in hiring and performance management
Partner with department leaders to support budget development and responsible financial stewardship
Identify opportunities to strengthen BATA’s financial position through analysis of obligations, vendor relationships, and operational efficiencies
Contribute to special projects, attend meetings, and deliver presentations as requested
What We’re Looking For
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting
Minimum of five to seven years of progressively responsible accounting experience, including supervisory responsibility
Strong knowledge of GAAP and governmental accounting principles
Demonstrated experience with budgeting, financial analysis, internal controls, and audits
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, with strong data analysis and reporting skills
Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly and professionally
Preferred Qualifications
CPA, CPA candidate, or CMA credential
Experience in public accounting or with governmental or public-sector organizations
Familiarity with QuickBooks or similar accounting systems
Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA) is the region’s premier public transportation provider, serving Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties.
Its is BATA's mission to improve lives by linking people and communities.
BATA's vision is to be a transportation provider and employer of choice, prepared to accept any larger mission that might be needed by its community
