Financial Planning & Analysis Specialist

Pay Rate: To maintain internal equity, we have identified the salary range for this position at the Oakland Zoo as $80,000 to $90,000 per year. An offer within this salary range will be determined by the experience and qualifications of a candidate and will be our best and final compensation offer.

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Note: This position is a Full Time, Hybrid – up to 2 days per week remote after initial onboarding period.

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The Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) Specialist will play a critical role in supporting the financial health and sustainability of the Conservation Society of California, dba Oakland Zoo, a nonprofit organization with an annual operating budget of $32 million. This individual will provide monthly financial analysis, forecasts, and variance reports, support the development and management of the annual budget, and ensure compliance with audit and reporting requirements. As part of a five-person finance team, the FP&A Specialist will collaborate across departments to deliver accurate and actionable financial insights to leadership. 

The Oakland Zoo offers a comprehensive benefits package, including Health insurance, Dental insurance, Vision insurance, Flexible spending account, Retirement plan, Paid time off, Employee Assistance Program, and A Family Zoo Membership.

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Financial Analysis & Forecasting 

• Prepare and distribute monthly financial performance reports, including budget vs. actuals, key financial metrics, and variance analysis. 
• Develop financial forecasts to support strategic decision-making and ensure the organization’s fiscal goals are met. 
• Monitor trends, identify risks and opportunities, and provide actionable recommendations. 

Budget Development & Management 

• Assist in the preparation and coordination of the annual budgeting process, working closely with department leaders to ensure accuracy and alignment with strategic priorities. 
• Maintain and update budget models, assumptions, and supporting documentation throughout the fiscal year. 

Financial Accounting

• Monitor zoo revenue and expenses, ensuring proper allocation and classification.  Provide financial insights into operational performance and cost-control measures. 
• Assist with tracking restricted funds, ensuring compliance with donor restrictions and reporting requirements. 

Audit & Compliance Reporting

• Provide detailed schedules, reconciliations, and supporting documentation for the annual audit. 
• Prepare and submit required compliance reports to grantors, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders. 
• Ensure adherence to nonprofit accounting standards and best practices. 

Collaboration & Communication 

• Act as a financial liaison to other departments, providing guidance on budget management and financial processes. 
• Assist with ad hoc analyses and special projects as needed. 
• Contribute to process improvements and efficiency initiatives within the finance team. 

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• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field or equivalent experience. 

• 4+ years of experience in financial planning and analysis, budgeting, or accounting, preferably in a nonprofit setting. 

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail. 

• Proficiency in financial software and Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel)

• Knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit financial reporting requirements. 

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly. 

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment while managing multiple priorities and deadlines. 

Bonus if you have:

• Experience with SAGE Intacct and Power BI is a plus. 

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Knowledge/Skills/Qualities - May be representative, but not all-inclusive, of those knowledge, skills and abilities commonly associated with this position.

• Collaboration – builds trusting relationships with both internal and external stakeholders across our organization and community-wide and approaches differences of opinion with curiosity and humility.

• Dependability – demonstrates trustworthiness and reliability, including while working with little or no direct supervision

• Communication – communicates respectfully and effectively with stakeholders across identities, both verbally and in writing

• Leadership – mentors, advises, and develops people across identities with consideration for cultural relevance and responsiveness, self-awareness around implicit bias and understanding of the power dynamics that exist in organizations.

• Inclusive Culture - fosters a culture of mutual respect, transparency, collaboration and belonging which allows all employees to feel appreciated, included, and valued.

• Passion – wholeheartedly believes in, represents, and models Oakland Zoo’s mission and PRIDE values at all times.

• Relationship-Building - able to build and maintain trusting relationships and mutually beneficial partnerships with internal and external stakeholders

• Solution-oriented – utilizes an open-minded and strengths-based approach to finding solutions for complex challenges.

• Wildlife Aware - understands mission to support the conservation and welfare of animals at The Zoo, locally and globally. This is demonstrated by a willingness/passion to reflect this mission in all actions and to continue to learn how to take action for wildlife.

• Sustainability – oriented toward the mission and values of the Oakland Zoo and able to put those into practice by finding creative and resourceful ways to develop sustainable practices within your role and department.

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