Application Guide

How to Apply for Controller

at CommonLit, Inc.

🏢 About CommonLit, Inc.

CommonLit is a nonprofit edtech organization with a mission to ensure all students, especially those in Title I schools, graduate with essential reading and critical thinking skills. Their free online reading program is used by teachers in over 90,000 American schools, making a tangible impact on millions of students. This is a unique opportunity to apply financial expertise to a double bottom line—financial stability and mission-driven impact.

About This Role

As Controller, you will lead day-to-day accounting operations, including month-end close, treasury, and compliance, while managing two direct reports. This role is pivotal in scaling a fast-growing SaaS model within a nonprofit, directly supporting the organization's financial health and mission. You'll work closely with the VP of Finance and Accounting, contributing to strategic decisions that enable CommonLit to expand its reach.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start by reviewing cash positions and approving wire transfers, then checking in with your coordinator on AR collections. You might spend the afternoon reviewing grant expense allocations and preparing journal entries for the month-end close, while also mentoring your team on best practices. You'll likely have a weekly sync with the VP of Finance to discuss cash flow forecasts and upcoming compliance deadlines.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who CommonLit, Inc. Is Looking For

  • Experienced in nonprofit accounting, with a strong understanding of fund accounting, grant compliance, and 2 CFR 200 regulations.
  • Hands-on manager who enjoys leading a small team, with excellent people management skills and a collaborative approach.
  • Proficient in accounting software (e.g., NetSuite, QuickBooks) and advanced Excel; comfortable with SaaS revenue recognition (ASC 606).
  • Detail-oriented with a process-improvement mindset, able to streamline close processes and implement internal controls.

📝 Tips for Applying to CommonLit, Inc.

1

Tailor your resume to highlight nonprofit accounting experience, especially with federal grants and fund accounting.

2

In your cover letter, explicitly connect your technical accounting skills to CommonLit's mission of educational equity.

3

Quantify your achievements: e.g., 'Reduced close time by 20%' or 'Managed a $5M grant portfolio'.

4

Mention your experience with SaaS revenue recognition and any tools like NetSuite or Salesforce.

5

Research CommonLit's recent financial news or annual reports and mention something specific in your application to show genuine interest.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Passion for education equity and how your accounting work can contribute to closing the opportunity gap.', 'Experience with nonprofit accounting, including grant management and compliance (e.g., 2 CFR 200, A-133 audits).', 'Track record of managing accounting operations and leading a team, with examples of process improvements.', "Technical skills in SaaS revenue recognition and accounting software, and how they apply to CommonLit's model."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review CommonLit's website and read their annual report or financial statements if available to understand their revenue mix and growth.
  • → Read about their impact metrics (e.g., number of students served, teacher usage) to speak to their mission.
  • → Research the nonprofit edtech landscape and challenges in funding, to show you understand the sector.
  • → Look up CommonLit's leadership team on LinkedIn, especially the VP of Finance, to understand their background and priorities.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you handle the month-end close process for a nonprofit with multiple revenue streams (grants, donations, SaaS)?
2 Describe a time you implemented internal controls or improved an accounting process. What was the outcome?
3 How do you stay current with nonprofit accounting regulations (e.g., GASB, FASB) and ensure compliance?
4 How would you manage and develop two direct reports with different skill levels?
5 What experience do you have with grant reporting and ensuring expenses align with restricted funds?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't overlook the nonprofit aspect: failing to mention fund accounting or grant compliance in your application.
  • Don't be vague about your technical skills; provide specific examples of using accounting software and Excel.
  • Don't ignore the remote work aspect: emphasize your ability to work independently and communicate effectively across time zones.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to CommonLit, Inc.!

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