Fractional Project Controller (Part-Time)

Company Description

At Ogle Architecture & Design, we are pioneers in the West Coast Design attitude, leveraging cutting-edge technology–including our proprietary O.AI research–to push the boundaries of what is possible. We are looking for a Project Architect who shares our passion for innovation, design, and the “power of place,” who can execute our vision with unrelenting precision.

Role Description

We are seeking a highly driven, meticulously organized, and technically proficient Fractional Controller to oversee our financial strategy and project accounting. We don’t need a full-time presence; we need a "once-a-week" expert who can audit our project health, streamline our revenue recognition, and provide the Principals with clear, data-driven insights. The individual will manage project financials, oversee budget tracking, and ensure resource allocation aligns with strategic priorities. Responsibilities include preparing financial reports, monitoring project costs, coordinating with project managers, and identifying financial risks and opportunities. This position demands a professional who thrives in a structured, fast-paced, and highly accountable corporate-style management environment. As our in-house billing and profitability specialist, you must possess an uncompromising standard for precision and timeline management.

Key Responsibilities

• Phase-Based Invoicing: Review project schedules and "percent complete" statuses with Principals. Draft and finalize monthly invoices based on AIA phases (SD, DD, CD, etc.).
• Hourly "Culling" & Auditing: Review staff timesheets for accuracy. Proactively identify and "cull" excessive or miscategorized hours to ensure we stay within fee caps while maintaining professional standards.
• WIP Analysis: Monitor Work-in-Progress (WIP) to ensure we are billing for all earned revenue and not leaving money on the table at the end of a phase.
• Client Liaison: Act as the point of contact for client billing inquiries, ensuring a high level of professional "SF-style" service.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field
• Industry Expertise: Minimum 5 years of accounting leadership specifically within an Architecture, Engineering, or Construction (AEC) firm. You must speak "Architectese" (understand overhead rates, direct vs. indirect labor, and AIA billing).
• Proven experience in financial analysis, budget management, and project cost control
• Proficiency in accounting software and tools, financial reporting, and budgeting processes
• The "Editor" Mindset: You have the backbone to tell a Principal when a project is burning through its fee too fast and the judgment to trim hours that aren't defensible to a client.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with diverse teams
• Knowledge of architecture or design industry financial practices is advantageous
• Ability to work on-site in Berkeley, CA, and demonstrate adaptability in a dynamic, creative environment
• CPA or similar financial certification is a plus

Why Join OAD?

• Impactful Work: Join a team that has been published in Dwell, featured on the cover of Showcase, and recognized by the AIA for design excellence.
• High Autonomy: We trust your expertise. You own the "Finance Department" and set the schedule that works for you.
• Direct Impact: Your insights will directly influence which projects we chase and how we grow our team.