Director of Finance

Join Us in Turning Rescued Dogs into Rescuers

Who We Are:

The National Disaster Search Dog Foundation (SDF) is a nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to strengthening disaster response by rescuing and training dogs to serve in disaster search operations. Since 1996, our mission has paired compassion with action - providing professionally trained canines and ongoing support at no cost to fire departments and task forces nationwide to ensure communities have access to dependable, highly-skilled canine disaster search teams when disaster strikes. For dogs who do not complete disaster search training, we remain committed to their success by placing them in alternative careers or adoptive homes where they can thrive. Once rescued, these dogs will never need to be rescued again—our mission is to guide each one toward a life of purpose and fulfillment.

Today, over 100 SDF-trained canine disaster search teams stand ready across North America, bringing hope where it’s needed most.

Our mission is supported by a passionate team committed to excellence, innovation, and compassion for both people and animals. As we continue to grow, SDF is seeking a mission-driven, rising finance leader to help guide the organization’s future.

So, if you are talented, compassionate, motivated to make a difference, and eager to join a team of like-minded individuals, we want to talk to you!

What You’ll Do:

As Director of Finance, you will play a pivotal role in capturing, processing, and reporting financial data, collaborating with the CEO, Finance Committee, Board of Directors, and staff to oversee and contribute to financial operations and strategies. You will develop financial plans that support SDF’s mission and goals, ensure efficient financial management, prepare budgets and forecasts, identify fiscal challenges and opportunities, conduct risk assessments, monitor investment performance, and prepare financial reports.

Core Responsibilities:

Financial Planning, Reporting, and Analysis

• Develop and implement strategies to support organizational financial goals
• Prepare financial reports, statements, and recommendations
• Collaborate with the CEO on long-term financial planning

Accounts Payable/Receivable and Bookkeeping

• Manage all financial transactions via QuickBooks
• Process bills, payments, credit card receipts, and merchandise orders
• Collect and enter W-9s

Budgeting, Forecasting, and Monitoring

• Lead annual budget process and monthly budget meetings
• Monitor budget variances and expense management

Banking, Reconciliations, and Auditing

• Serve as the point of contact for banking and investment activities
• Oversee cash flow, reconciliations, and annual audit

Investment and Risk Management

• Identify and mitigate financial risks
• Liaise with investment firms and manage investment performance

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations
• Complete sales tax documentation, CFC applications, and state registrations
• Manage annual 990-tax return and property tax forms

Asset Management

• Track and manage fixed assets and depreciation schedules

Finance Committee Liaison

• Coordinate and participate in Finance Committee meetings
• Prepare financial documents and meeting minutes

Internal Reporting and Collaboration

• Collaborate with teams to produce specialized reports
• Work with volunteers to maintain inventory accuracy
• Provide staff reports and financial information as requested

Other Duties

• Train backup personnel
• Represent SDF at events and public gatherings
• Perform other administrative functions as assigned

Who You Are:

We’re seeking a skilled finance professional who is excited to bring your expertise to a mission-driven organization. You will:

• Embrace and promote SDF’s values: collaboration, innovation, compassion, grit, and integrity.
• Create and nurture a professional, respectful, and constructive work environment.
• Demonstrate sound judgement, ethical behavior, and accountability.
• Communicate clearly and encourage open, collaborative communication.
• Maintain a safe and healthy work environment.
• Seek opportunities to positively impact organizational culture.

Qualifications & Experience

Required:

• At least 7 years of progressive financial experience, ideally with exposure to financial management or leadership.
• Expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Familiarity with GAAP, nonprofit compliance standards, and IRS regulations (e.g., Form 990).
• Proficiency with QuickBooks and financial software.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Commitment to SDF’s mission and values.

Preferred:

• A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field.
• Advanced degree (MBA, MPA) or advanced certification (CPA, CFA, or CMA).
• Experience in nonprofit financial management, accounting, and reporting, especially with fund accounting, grant compliance and reporting, and audit and budget preparation.
• Familiarity with CRMs, including Salesforce.
• Background in investment oversight and endowment management.

Core Competencies:

• Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving skills.
• High integrity and accountability in all financial operations.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with executive leadership, board committees, and cross-functional teams.
• Skilled at presenting complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders.

Where You’ll Work

This full‑time role is based at SDF’s National Training Center in Santa Paula, California, with hybrid flexibility (onsite three days/week, remote up to two days/week).

Compensation & Benefits

SDF offers a competitive, experience-based salary that is commensurate with demonstrated skills and qualifications. Full-time employees are eligible for our benefits package, which includes employer-supported medical coverage with multiple plan options, a 401(k)-retirement plan with an employer contribution match, a flexible spending account, paid time off and paid holidays, long-term disability and life insurance, an employee assistance program, and access to additional programs and discounts. Specific eligibility timelines and details are provided during onboarding and in plan documents.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to make a difference and help strengthen SDF’s financial future, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your cover letter and resume for consideration. No phone calls, please.

Equal Opportunity

The Search Dog Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, age, sex or gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, military service or veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

Learn More

Explore our mission and programs at https://www.searchdogfoundation.org.

Pay: $80,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Do you have experience working in the nonprofit sector?

Experience:

• Finance: 7 years (Preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Santa Paula, CA 93060