Controller

Description

Summary - The Controller is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing the financial and accounting functions of the firm. As a hands-on leader, the Controller ensures accurate project accounting, timely financial reporting, cash flow forecasting, regulatory compliance, and strategic financial planning. This role bridges the finance, operations, and executive leadership to support informed decision-making in a dynamic, project-based professional services environment. The Controller will play a critical role in managing financial systems, developing financial processes, and providing insights that drive profitability and sustainable growth in a firm.

• Oversee full-cycle accounting: GL, AP, AR, payroll, fixed assets.
• Track project costs versus budgets and prepare profitability reports.
• Review contracts and change orders for financial implications.
• Manage insurance, licensing, and compliance obligations.
• Oversee payroll taxes, sales/use taxes, and other regulatory filings.
• Provide financial analysis for proposals, pricing, and staffing decisions.
• Prepare monthly and quarterly financial statements under GAAP.
• Communicate financial insights to principals and project managers.
• Effective management of receivables and DSO.
• Ensure billing terms align with contract agreements.
• Develop and maintain 13-week cash flow forecasts.
• Maintain and improve accounting systems, policies, and procedures.
• Manage, mentor, and develop a small accounting team.
• Clean audit results and on-time tax filings.
• Manage timely project billings and client invoicing.
• Lead annual operating budget preparation and periodic reforecasts.
• aintain work-in-progress (WIP) schedules and monitor over/under billings.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and applicable regulations.
• Reconcile accounts and manage the month-end close process.
• Partner with firm leadership to evaluate opportunities and risks.
• Manage working capital and banking relationships.
• Monitor accounts receivable and lead collections efforts.
• Support external audits and tax preparation as needed.
• Promote accountability, collaboration, and professional growth within the finance function.

Requirements

Applicants please note: This position requires US work authorization, and we are not looking for out of country/outsourced support or remote workers of any kind. This opening is for local candidates residing in the metro phoenix area or those willing to self-relocate to this area only. All positions listed are full time in office roles with no opportunity for hybrid or work from home accommodations. If you are looking to work remote, please do not apply.

• Monthly close completed within 5 business days.
• Effective communicator with both finance and non-finance leaders.
• Organized, detail-oriented, and deadline-driven.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (required).
• Prior experience in an Architecture, Engineering, Construction, or other project-based professional services firm preferred.
• CPA strongly preferred; CMA or MBA is a plus.
• Accurate, timely project profitability and variance reporting.
• Demonstrated ability to manage full accounting cycles, budgets, forecasting, and audits.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and project accounting.
• High ethical standards, confidentiality, and integrity.
• Analytical skills with ability to interpret financial and project data.
• Reliable cash flow forecasting and working capital management.
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• 5–10 years of progressive accounting/finance experience.
• Proficiency with accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, NetSuite) and Microsoft Excel.
• Strong skills with accounting systems and Excel; experience implementing or improving financial processes.

Benefits

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance