Controller (Chicago)

COMPANY OVERVIEW:

BOWA Construction is a General Contractor and Construction Management firm built on the core principles of family, honesty, discipline, and quality. With a team of industry experts experienced in general contracting, design-build, and construction management, we deliver every project with passion and purpose. We are driven by the long-term impact our work has on the communities we serve.

WHY BOWA?

At BOWA, we build more than projects - we build communities, relationships, and careers. We believe our success starts with our people, our commitment to quality, and the relationships we build with our clients and communities. Much of our growth comes from repeat clients and trusted partnerships, allowing us to expand our impact and create opportunities for our team.

• Build With Purpose: Make a lasting impact in the communities we serve.
• Own Your Impact: Take ownership and see your work come to life.
• Grow With Us: Build your skills, leadership, and career.
• Build Relationships: Work alongside great people, clients, and partners.
• Be Part of Something Bigger: Join a growing team where your contributions matter.

At BOWA, we’re building what’s next, and we want you to join us!

ROLE OVERVIEW:

The Controller is responsible for overseeing the company's financial operations, accounting functions, financial reporting, budgeting, and internal controls. This role ensures the accuracy and integrity of financial records while providing strategic financial insights to support business growth and profitability. The Controller will partner closely with executive leadership, project management, and operations teams to monitor project financial performance, manage cash flow, and ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards and regulations.

The ideal candidate has strong construction industry experience, preferably within a General Contracting (GC) or construction management environment, with a solid understanding of job costing, work-in-progress (WIP) reporting, percentage-of-completion accounting, and construction project financial management.

This position is fully on-site at BOWA Construction’s Chicago Downtown office.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Financial Management & Reporting

• Oversee daily accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, payroll, and month-end and year-end close processes.
• Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, management reports, and financial analyses.
• Develop and maintain financial controls, accounting policies, and procedures to ensure accuracy, compliance, and operational efficiency.
• Manage cash flow forecasting, working capital, banking relationships, and financial planning activities.
• Coordinate annual financial audits, tax preparation, and external accounting requirements.

Construction Accounting & Project Financials

• Oversee construction accounting processes, including job costing, project budgets, cost tracking, and financial forecasting.
• Prepare and review Work-in-Progress (WIP) schedules, percentage-of-completion calculations, and project profitability reports.
• Monitor project costs, commitments, change orders, subcontractor payments, and billing to identify financial risks and potential cost overruns.
• Partner with project managers, estimators, and operations leaders to evaluate project financial performance and improve margins.
• Review contract terms, payment applications, retainage, and revenue recognition to ensure accurate financial reporting.
• Analyze project-level financial data and provide actionable recommendations to improve profitability and cash flow.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Strategic Planning

• Lead the annual budgeting process and ongoing financial forecasting.
• Analyze financial performance against budgets, identify variances, and recommend corrective actions.
• Provide financial insights to executive leadership to support strategic planning, business growth, and resource allocation.
• Develop and monitor key financial metrics, including gross profit margins, operating expenses, cash flow, and project profitability.

Leadership & Compliance

• Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting and finance team.
• Collaborate with executive leadership and operational teams to align financial objectives with company goals.
• Ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards, tax requirements, and financial regulations.
• Identify opportunities to streamline accounting processes, strengthen internal controls, and improve financial systems.
• Support the implementation and optimization of construction accounting software, ERP systems, and financial reporting tools.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:

REQUIRED QUALIFUCATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• 7+ years of progressive accounting or finance experience, including experience in a Controller, Assistant Controller, Accounting Manager, or similar leadership role.
• 5+ years of experience in the construction industry, preferably with a General Contractor (GC), construction management firm, or engineering and construction company.
• Strong knowledge of construction accounting, job costing, WIP schedules, percentage-of-completion accounting, and project financial reporting.
• Demonstrated experience overseeing general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Experience managing cash flow, project profitability, revenue recognition, and financial controls.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and construction accounting software or ERP systems.
• Strong analytical, organizational, problem-solving, and leadership skills.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to partner effectively with executive leadership and project teams.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• CPA certification or MBA in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Experience working for a General Contractor or construction management company with multiple active projects.
• Experience with construction accounting platforms such as Sage 300 CRE, Viewpoint Vista, CMiC, Procore Financials, or similar systems.
• Knowledge of AIA billing, subcontractor management, retainage, lien waivers, and construction contract administration.
• Experience supporting company growth, improving financial processes, and implementing accounting systems.
• Experience managing and developing an accounting or finance team.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:

BOWA Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace where all employees and applicants are valued and treated with dignity and respect.

We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.

BOWA Construction is committed to fair and equitable employment practices throughout all stages of employment. We believe that a diverse workforce strengthens our team, enhances collaboration, and contributes to the success of our projects, clients, and communities. We encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

BENEFITS:

• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance - 70% Employer contribution & Employee HSA contribution*
• Performance Based Bonuses - % of base salary
• Parental Leave
• Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
• Short Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid Vacation, Sick Time, & Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program (advocates to help manage and control stress levels and everyday life for you and/or your family)