Our client based in the East Brunswick, NJ area, is seeking an experienced Assistant Controller to join their accounting team. This is a hands on role for someone who knows construction accounting inside and out and wants real ownership over the month end close, job costing, and WIP reporting that keeps a construction business running on accurate numbers.
The Assistant Controller will work closely with the Controller and play a key role in the day to day accounting operations, while also having visibility into broader financial reporting and project level analysis. This is a good fit for someone who wants more responsibility than a staff accountant role but isn't quite ready for, or doesn't want, the full scope of a Controller seat yet.
Responsibilities
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The Assistant Controller will manage the monthly close process in accordance with GAAP, including preparing and reviewing journal entries, performing account reconciliations, and analyzing variances between actual and budgeted results.
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They will own job costing across active construction projects, working directly with project managers and field teams to ensure costs are captured accurately and on time.
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WIP reporting is a core part of this role.
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The Assistant Controller will prepare and review work in progress schedules, ensure percentage of completion calculations are correct, and flag any projects where cost overruns or billing issues need attention before they become a problem.
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They'll work with project managers regularly, not just at month end, to keep job cost data clean throughout the project lifecycle.
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Beyond the close, this person will assist with preparation of financial statements, support the annual audit and any bonding or surety reporting requirements, and help maintain strong internal controls around project accounting and revenue recognition.
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They will also assist with cash flow analysis, AIA billing processes, and subcontractor compliance tracking where relevant.
Requirements
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A BA or BS in Accounting or Finance is required. CPA or CPA eligible is preferred but not mandatory for the right candidate.
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The ideal candidate has a minimum of 5 years of construction accounting experience, though candidates with strong general accounting and analytical backgrounds who are eager to specialize in construction will also be considered.
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Hands on experience with job costing and WIP reporting is essential.
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This is not a generalist accounting role, and candidates should be comfortable working directly with project data and translating it into accurate financial reporting.
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Strong communication skills are important, since this role involves regular interaction with project managers, field staff, and senior finance leadership.
Compensation and Benefits
Base salary of $150,000 with an annual bonus target of 20% to 25%.
