We are seeking an experienced Controller/Accounting Department Manager to lead the accounting and financial operations of a $40M infrastructure construction company located in a beautiful and cost-effective community west of Chicago. This role is critical to ensuring accurate job costing, reliable financial reporting, strong cash flow management, corporate reporting and compliance across all projects and company operations. The ideal candidate combines deep construction accounting expertise (percentage-of-completion, WIP, retainage, lien management) with the leadership skills to manage an accounting team and partner closely with company operations, project management, and executive leadership teams.
This role ensures that the accounting and financial functions meet the fiduciary responsibilities of the ownership. The position reports directly to the Chief Strategic Officer and is suited for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced construction environment, understands construction workflows, and embraces a disciplined approach to the associated financial and operational controls. This position is a go-to resource for the leadership team when making strategic decisions and will be able to support the leadership team through substantial growth and expansion.
Core functions include:
- Corporate compliance, accounting activities and financial record keeping and filings
- Construction project/job-based financial activities and related reporting
- Payroll management and Human Resource activity tracking/records
- Cash flow management and banking
- Budgeting, forecasting & strategy
- Application of internal financial controls policies and procedures
- Relationship management with professional service providers, banks, lenders and vendors
- Supervision of the departmental support staff
Education/Certification:
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; or an Associate’s degree (or a minor) coupled with significant applicable work experience.
Required Knowledge:
- Strong knowledge of percentage-of-completion accounting, WIP schedules, and job costing
- Proficiency with construction accounting software (e.g., Sage 300 CRE/Sage Intacct Construction, Viewpoint Vista/Spectrum, Foundation, CMiC, or similar)
- Advanced Excel skills; experience with financial reporting and dashboard tools
- Solid understanding of GAAP, ASC 606, and construction-specific compliance requirements
- Experience managing relationships with sureties, banks, and external auditors
Experience Required:
- Minimum 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, with at least 3-5 years in construction accounting involving multi-million dollar contracts with self-performed work and sub-contractor agreements.
Compensation:
- Salary of $80,000-$95,000 commensurate with experience.
- Bonus opportunities.
- Benefits package including:
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Short and Long Term Disability
- 401(k) with an employer match
- PTO
- Relocation costs may be available.
Pay: $80,000.00 - $95,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Disability insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Relocation assistance
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
