Finance & Operations Manager

OVERVIEW:
The Whitefish Lake Institute (WLI), a leader in water quality monitoring, research, and education, is seeking a Finance & Operations Manager to join our non-profit team in Whitefish, Montana. Reporting to the Executive Director, the Finance & Operations Manager will play a key role in multiple aspects and initiatives of the organization. As part of a small but high impact non-profit team, the Finance & Operations Manager will play a significant role in helping WLI fulfill its mission to protect and improve water quality in the Whitefish area.
 

• Process accounts payable / accounts receivable
• Process monthly payroll
• Prepare annual budget
• Gather information for 990
• Manage Restricted / Reserve account

• Manage insurance policies
• Write, administer, and report on grants
• Administer and invoice on contracts
• Manage member database and correspondence
• Draft articles and manage the production of the quarterly newsletter LakeFront
• Co-coordinate the Montana Lakes Conference (4-year cycle—next event 2027)
• Maintain organizational record keeping, including asset inventory
• Maintain and order office supplies

• Participate in staff meetings, board meetings and WLI sponsored events
• Assist in The Living Watershed learning center capital campaign
• Assist with human resources and company policies
• Assist in educational programs if needed
• Assist with scientific data collection if needed
• Fulfill miscellaneous tasks associated with a small non-profit corporation as assigned by ED

• Minimum B.S. or B.A. in accounting, finance, or public administration with four years of related experience
• Natural resource experience preferred but not required
• Exceptional communication skills both oral and written
• Proven collaboration and relationship-building skills and ability to work effectively with diverse people, funders, and partners.
• Highly organized, detail oriented, with capacity to juggle multiple tasks in a high-energy environment
• Flexible, reliable, and self-directed work style
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
• Positive, motivated, energetic, and empathetic attitude
• Command of major software programs including Microsoft Suite and Quickbooks Pro
• Passion for the aquatic resources of a small but vital watershed located at the headwaters of the Columbia River Basin

• $70,000-$75,000 DOE
• Health Stipend ($5,000 annually)
• 3 weeks paid vacation
• Paid winter break between December 25 and January 1
• Retirement contribution (up to 3% employer match)

• Supply the following documents in a single PDF in the order listed below:
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume
  • Contact information for three professional references
  • Writing sample
    • List three things that appeal to you the most about working for WLI (maximum word count= 300).
• Submit required information electronically to the search committee at info@whitefishlake.org. Put “Finance & Operations Manager Application” in the subject line.
• Review of applications will begin September 15, 2025
• Position open until filled