Controller

Job DescriptionControllerLocation: Beltsville, Maryland Employment Type: Full-Time In-Office OverviewAn established project-based construction services organization is seeking an experienced Controller to lead the company's accounting function and ensure the accuracy, discipline, and reliability of all financial reporting. This role reports directly to executive leadership and serves as the senior accounting professional responsible for maintaining financial integrity within a cost-driven, project-based operating environmentThe Controller will oversee accounting operations, manage a small accounting team, and ensure that financial statements, job cost data, and work-in-progress reporting accurately reflect operational performance. This position is hands-on and operational, focused on financial oversight, accounting discipline, and process improvement rather than corporate strategy. Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Reporting & Close ManagementLead and manage the monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes Prepare and deliver accurate financial statements in a timely manner Maintain integrity of the general ledger, including accruals and deferrals Perform account reconciliations and resolve discrepancies Maintain and refine the company's chart of accounts Coordinate with external accounting partners regarding financial reviews and tax filings The Controller is accountable for ensuring financial reporting remains consistent, accurate, and operationally meaningful. Construction Accounting & Project Cost OversightThis organization operates in a cost-based project environment where accurate job costing is essential to financial visibilityResponsibilities include: Prepare and maintain monthly Work-In-Process (WIP) schedulesApply percentage-of-completion revenue recognitionMonitor and analyze over/under billings Ensure job cost data is accurate and properly coded Review cost-to-complete projections provided by project leadership Investigate inconsistencies or unusual financial results Support executive leadership during periodic WIP reviews The Controller is responsible for the accuracy and structural integrity of all project financial reportingCash Management & Financial ControlsMonitor accounts receivable and support collection efforts Ensure billing processes are accurate and timely Oversee accounts payable and receivable operations Perform bank reconciliations and cash monitoring Maintain effective internal financial controls Support external banking and insurance relationships when required The Controller plays a key role in protecting the organization's financial assets through disciplined oversight. Accounting Team LeadershipSupervise and develop accounting personnel Establish clear expectations for accuracy and performance Improve accounting workflows and operational efficiency Maintain organized financial systems and documentation Cross-train team members to ensure continuity of essential functions The Controller sets the standard for professionalism and financial accountability within the accounting function. Candidate ProfileExperiencePrior Controller or senior accounting leadership experience within a construction, contracting, or project-based services environment Experience working within organizations generating $10M+ in annual revenueStrong understanding of cost-based construction accountingDemonstrated experience managing WIP schedules and project cost reportingPractical knowledge of percentage-of-completion accountingExperience with construction accounting software platforms (Sage, Timberline, or similar preferred) Experience supervising accounting staff This position is best suited for a hands-on accounting leader who values structure, financial accuracy, and operational disciplineEducationBachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance requiredCPA designation preferred but not requiredProfessional CharacteristicsHighly analytical with strong attention to detail Calm and composed in operational environments Comfortable questioning inconsistencies and challenging assumptions High personal accountability and professional integrity Thrives in lean, performance-focused organizations RequirementsPrior Controller or senior accounting leadership experience within a construction, contracting, or project-based services environment Experience working within organizations generating $10M+ in annual revenueStrong understanding of cost-based construction accountingDemonstrated experience managing WIP schedules and project cost reportingPractical knowledge of percentage-of-completion accountingExperience supervising accounting staff BenefitsCompensationBase salary commensurate with experience Performance-based bonus potential Comprehensive benefits package