Job Description:
Pearce Elementary School DistrictBusiness Manager
Position Title: Business Manager
Location: Pearce Elementary School District, Cochise County, Arizona
Reports To: Superintendent/Principal
FLSA Status: Exempt
Employment Type: Full-Time, 12-Month Position
Position Summary
The Business Manager oversees the financial, administrative, operational, and support service functions of Pearce Elementary School District to ensure efficient and effective district operations. Working closely with the Superintendent/Principal, staff, governing board, vendors, and community partners, the Business Manager manages budgeting, purchasing, payroll coordination, grants administration, facilities support, and compliance with district, state, and federal regulations.
As a key member of the district leadership team, the Business Manager helps ensure that fiscal resources and operational systems support the district's mission of providing a high-quality educational experience for all students.
Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesFinancial Management
Develop, monitor, and manage the district's annual operating budget in collaboration with the Superintendent/Principal.
Monitor expenditures and revenues to ensure sound fiscal management and compliance with district policies and legal requirements.
Prepare financial reports, budget forecasts, and analyses for district leadership and the Governing Board.
Manage federal, state, and local grant funding and ensure compliance with applicable requirements.
Oversee district accounts, activity funds, and financial records.
Assist with annual audits and financial reviews.
Purchasing and Procurement
Administer procurement and purchasing activities, including purchase orders, vendor contracts, and bids.
Ensure compliance with Arizona procurement laws, district policies, and audit standards.
Obtain quotes and competitive bids as required.
Develop and maintain productive relationships with vendors and service providers.
Payroll and Human Resources Support
Coordinate payroll processing, employee timesheets, leave tracking, and personnel documentation.
Support employee onboarding and maintain confidential personnel records.
Serve as liaison between district staff and payroll, benefits, and human resources service providers.
Ensure compliance with employment-related reporting requirements.
Operations and Facilities Management
Coordinate maintenance and operational support for district facilities and grounds.
Monitor facility projects, repairs, and capital improvement activities.
Assist with safety programs, risk management, emergency preparedness, and security initiatives.
Maintain inventory control and district asset records.
Compliance and Reporting
Ensure compliance with Arizona Department of Education regulations, federal grant requirements, and district policies.
Prepare reports and documentation required by local, state, and federal agencies.
Maintain accurate records to support audits, reporting, and accountability measures.
Stay informed regarding changes in school finance, procurement, and employment regulations.
Leadership and Community Relations
Serve as a member of the district leadership team.
Provide guidance and training to staff regarding budget, purchasing, and financial procedures.
Assist in preparing information and presentations for Governing Board meetings.
Foster positive relationships with families, community members, local organizations, and business partners.
Promote transparency, accountability, and customer service throughout district operations.
QualificationsEducation
Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, Public Administration, Educational Leadership, or a related field preferred.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
Experience
Minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in accounting, finance, business operations, school administration, or a related field.
Experience in K-12 education, school finance, or public-sector budgeting preferred.
Experience managing grants and government-funded programs is highly desirable.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge of budgeting, accounting, payroll, procurement, and financial reporting practices.
Understanding of Arizona school finance and public-sector accounting principles.
Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise professional judgment.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, financial software systems, and data management tools. Knowledge of Cochise County Visions software and treasurer processes preferred.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
Certifications and Licenses
Valid Arizona Driver's License.
Arizona Fingerprint Clearance Card, or ability to obtain one before employment.
Certification in school business management, accounting, or public finance is desirable.
Physical Requirements
Ability to perform routine office duties, including sitting, standing, walking, and computer use.
Occasional lifting of materials up to 25 pounds.
Ability to travel within the district and county as needed.
Salary and Benefits
Salary Range: Competitive and commensurate with education and experience.
Benefits Include:
Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS)
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
Professional development opportunities
Equal Employment Opportunity
Pearce Elementary School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected classification under applicable law.
Note: In a small rural district such as Pearce Elementary School District, the Business Manager may also oversee grants administration, transportation contracts, food service financial coordination, other operational functions that support the efficient delivery of educational services, and other duties as assigned.