Chief Financial Officer

Columbia Rural Electric Association is seeking a highly motivated individual for the position of Chief Financial Officer located at the Cooperative’s Walla Walla Service Center.

The Chief Financial Officer is a member of the executive management team and is responsible for effectively managing and directing the financial duties of the cooperative and our broadband subsidiary in a manner that promotes the strategic decisions of the board of directors and CEO following established policies, plans and objectives.  The CFO supervises the finance department and oversees all the accounting processes such as payroll, financial planning, analysis, general accounting, cash management, internal controls, budgeting, cost of service studies, rate design, financial forecasts and federal and state tax filings. This position is a fiduciary level of care with respect to the membership and safeguards company assets through the development, implementation, and monitoring of effective internal controls for the Cooperative and its Subsidiaries.

The Chief Financial Officer must have a good understanding of accounting principles and procedures as they relate to the financial management of a rural electric utility.  This includes a thorough knowledge of the CFC System of Accounts, including work order procedures, and general and subsidiary ledgers in order to have complete familiarity with the financing and operation of a rural electric utility.

The applicant is required to possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration or related field.  CPA or CMA is preferred but not required. 

Four to five years’ experience in utility accounting is required.  Direct experience in managing the finances of a subsidiary or division, such as Broadband is a plus.  A thorough understanding of management and accounting principles, practices and concepts is required.   Proficient in Microsoft Suite and general accounting software. Must be an effective manager to motivate productivity within the department and to plan, organize, and direct the activities of the finance and accounting department.

Columbia REA is a progressive electric cooperative whose CFO will engage in a wide variety of tasks. This position offers excellent benefits, including 401K and Retirement Pension Plan, medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance plans.

Salary Range (Depending on Experience): $135,301-226,215

Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to:

Human Resource Department

Columbia Rural Electric Association

2929 Melrose Street

Walla Walla, WA 99362

or email to jobs@columbiarea.coop.

Applications will be accepted through 12/1/2025.

About Columbia Rural Electric Assn.

Connections working at Columbia Rural Electric Assn.