Controller
Santa Ana, CA Direct-Hire $125000.00 - $150000.00 Onsite

Job Description

Title: Controller

Salary: $125000-150000

Position Summary
An established project-based organization is seeking an experienced accounting professional to join its finance leadership team. This role will oversee core accounting functions, support financial reporting, manage project accounting activities, and contribute to process and technology initiatives that strengthen overall business operations.
The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in project-driven accounting environments, excellent financial management skills, and the ability to partner effectively with both finance and operational stakeholders. This is a highly visible position requiring strong analytical capabilities, attention to detail, and a continuous improvement mindset.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline
Progressive accounting experience in a project-based or service-driven environment:

2+ years for senior accounting level candidates
3-5 years for accounting management level candidates
4+ years for controller-level candidates


Experience with enterprise accounting and project management software platforms
Strong knowledge of project accounting, revenue recognition, and financial reporting
Experience preparing financial statements and supporting monthly close processes
Advanced Microsoft Excel and overall Microsoft Office proficiency
Strong understanding of accounting principles and internal controls


Preferred Qualifications

Payroll administration experience
Experience working with integrated business management or workflow platforms
System implementation, software migration, or process transformation experience
Budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow planning expertise
Experience supporting audits and financial reviews
Background working in multi-entity, multi-department, or multi-location environments
Leadership experience mentoring accounting staff and cross-functional teams


Key Responsibilities
Financial Accounting & Reporting

Support and oversee day-to-day accounting operations, including payables, receivables, payroll, and general ledger functions
Prepare and review monthly financial statements and supporting analyses
Participate in month-end and year-end close activities
Assist with external audit preparation and related requests
Maintain compliance with accounting standards, company policies, and regulatory requirements
Monitor internal controls and identify opportunities for improvement

Project Accounting & Financial Analysis

Track project performance and analyze financial results against budgets and forecasts
Maintain accurate project accounting records and supporting documentation
Prepare project profitability and performance reporting
Investigate cost variances and communicate findings to key stakeholders
Support billing and invoicing activities to ensure accuracy and timeliness
Review expenses and allocations for proper coding and compliance
Provide financial insights to support operational decision-making

Systems & Process Optimization

Participate in technology enhancement and process improvement initiatives
Assist with ongoing administration and optimization of accounting systems
Evaluate and implement workflow efficiencies that improve accuracy and scalability
Develop documentation for accounting procedures and best practices
Support end-user training and adoption of financial systems and processes

Payroll & Compliance Support

Assist with payroll processing, reporting, and related reconciliations
Support accrual calculations and payroll-related liabilities
Ensure payroll activities are completed accurately and within designated timeframes
Maintain compliance with applicable payroll and reporting requirements


Ideal Candidate Profile
The successful candidate will be:

Highly organized with exceptional attention to detail
Trustworthy and capable of handling sensitive information with discretion
Proactive in identifying and solving problems
Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, evolving environment
A strong

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, or military or veteran status. We consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act, City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance.

Job Reference: JN -072026-426340