Accounting Manager / Controller

Job Title: Accounting Manager / Controller

Reports To: Chief Operating Officer (COO)

FLSA Status: Exempt

Position Summary

The Accounting Manager / Controller is a hands-on leader responsible for overseeing all accounting operations for a growing commercial construction company. This role blends day-to-day execution with strategic oversight, requiring an individual who can manage transactional accounting functions while also stepping back to evaluate processes, strengthen controls, and improve the overall financial infrastructure of the organization. The ideal candidate brings strong construction accounting experience, a proactive mindset, and the ability to partner with operations and project management teams to drive accurate financial reporting, job cost visibility, and operational efficiency.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required (CPA or CMA preferred).
• 5–10 years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 3 years in the construction industry.
• Experience in commercial construction accounting is strongly preferred (job costing, WIP schedules, AIA billing).
• Prior supervisory or management experience required.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management

• Directly manage and develop Accounting Specialist.
• Lead hiring, training, performance management, and ongoing development of direct report.
• Establish clear expectations, accountability, and workflow processes within the accounting function.

Accounts Payable (AP)

• Oversee full-cycle AP process across all construction projects and corporate expenses.
• Review and approve vendor invoices for accuracy, proper coding, and compliance with company policies.
• Ensure timely processing of payments, including weekly check runs and electronic payments.
• Monitor subcontractor compliance (W-9s, lien waivers, insurance certificates).
• Identify and resolve discrepancies, duplicate payments, and inefficiencies in the AP process.

Accounts Receivable (AR) & Billing

• Monitor collections, aging, and cash flow related to project receivables.
• Oversee project billing, including preparation and review of AIA progress billings and supporting documentation.
• Partner with Project Managers to ensure accurate and timely monthly requisitions.
• Resolve billing disputes and ensure proper documentation is maintained.

Job Costing & Project Accounting

• Maintain integrity of job cost data and ensure proper cost coding across all projects.
• Review project financials regularly with operations to identify risks, cost overruns, and margin issues.
• Prepare and analyze Work-in-Progress (WIP) schedules, including revenue recognition and backlog reporting.
• Support project teams with financial insights and reporting tools.

General Accounting & Financial Reporting

• Lead month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Develop and maintain budgets, forecasts, and variance analyses.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and company financial policies.
• Oversee preparation and filing of 1099s and other regulatory reporting requirements.

Internal Controls & Process Improvement

• Evaluate existing accounting processes and identify opportunities for improvement, automation, and scalability.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures to strengthen internal controls.
• Establish key performance metrics for the accounting function and reporting timelines.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and visibility across financial operations.

Audit & Compliance

• Coordinate and lead annual financial audits and tax preparation with external partners.
• Maintain audit-ready financial records and supporting documentation.
• Ensure compliance with all financial, tax, and regulatory requirements.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner closely with Project Managers, Operations, and Executive Leadership.
• Provide financial insights to support business decisions and operational performance.
• Assist COO in strategic planning, cash flow management, and company growth initiatives.

Required Skills & Abilities

• Strong knowledge of construction accounting principles (job costing, WIP, AIA billing).
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., Premier, Sage, or similar) and advanced Excel skills.
• Ability to operate both tactically (transactional work) and strategically (process improvement, big-picture thinking).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop a team.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to work across departments.
• High level of integrity, discretion, and sound judgment.

Work Environment / Physical Requirements

• Primarily office-based with prolonged periods working at a desk and computer.
• Occasional visits to construction job sites as needed. 

Compensation

• $95k - $125k based on experience