Controller

Job Title: ControllerLocation: Sterling, VA - in office 5 days a week with hybrid flexibility offered down the lineType: Full-TimePay: $175-210K (depending on experience)Benefits: This position is eligible for medical, dental, vision & 401k.Position Summary:We are seeking an experienced Controller to oversee all accounting and financial operations for a growing government contractor. The Controller will lead the accounting team, ensure compliance with FAR, CAS, DCAA, and GAAP, manage the monthly close process, support government audits, and provide financial leadership across the organization. This individual will play a critical role in maintaining compliant accounting practices while supporting the company's continued growth.Key ResponsibilitiesLead all day-to-day accounting operations including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, fixed assets, and cash management.Manage the monthly, quarterly, and year-end close process, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting.Prepare and review monthly financial statements, balance sheet reconciliations, and variance analyses.Ensure compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and DCAA requirements.Oversee indirect rate calculations, provisional billing rates, incurred cost submissions (ICE), and year-end true-ups.Manage contract accounting for cost-plus, T&M, fixed-price, and IDIQ government contracts.Maintain and strengthen internal controls and accounting policies to support compliance and audit readiness.Coordinate annual financial statement audits, DCAA audits, incurred cost audits, and government compliance reviews.Partner with Contracts, Program Management, HR, and Operations to ensure accurate project setup, labor charging, and contract compliance.Oversee cash flow management, forecasting, and banking relationships.Review and approve journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial reporting packages.Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting team while fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.Assist with budgeting, forecasting, financial planning, and executive reporting.Support mergers, acquisitions, due diligence, and system implementations as needed.Identify opportunities to streamline accounting processes and improve operational efficiency.QualificationsBachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.CPA strongly preferred.8+ years of progressive accounting experience with 5+ years in Government Contracting (GovCon).3+ years of leadership or management experience.Strong knowledge of FAR, CAS, DCAA regulations, indirect rates, ICE submissions, and government contract accounting.Experience managing accounting for cost-plus, fixed-price, T&M, and IDIQ contracts.Experience preparing financial statements and supporting external audits.Advanced Microsoft Excel skills (Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, Power Query preferred).