Controller

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced Onsite (South SFO) Controller to lead the accounting function for a well-established union electrical contractor in South San Francisco, California. This on-site role reports directly to the owner and is intended to strengthen financial operations as the business continues to grow. The successful candidate will bring structure to monthly reporting, improve cost visibility across projects, and establish practical controls that support day-to-day operations.

Responsibilities:

• Lead a disciplined monthly close process and deliver accurate financial statements on a defined timetable.

• Manage revenue recognition under ASC 606 using percentage-of-completion accounting across all active projects, including complete work-in-progress reporting, projected final costs, and timely recognition of known losses.

• Design and implement internal controls that are embedded in daily administrative and accounting workflows.

• Strengthen payment and purchasing oversight by introducing structured approval practices such as purchase order controls and three-way matching.

• Oversee project accounting activities, including budget tracking, cost coding, overhead allocation, change order monitoring, and financial closeout of completed jobs.

• Prepare and maintain a rolling 13-week cash forecast while serving as a key financial contact for banking and bonding relationships.

• Ensure accuracy and compliance for weekly union payroll, certified payroll, and prevailing wage reporting across applicable labor classifications.

• Supervise the bookkeeper responsible for payroll, accounts payable, and accounts receivable, providing direction and quality oversight.

• Evaluate current accounting and project systems after core processes are stabilized and recommend a more integrated platform if needed.

• At least 5 years of controller experience within a construction or contractor environment, ideally supporting businesses in the $15 million to $75 million range.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience performing monthly percentage-of-completion accounting rather than relying solely on year-end external reporting.
• Proven ability to build and maintain work-in-progress schedules suitable for review by bonding providers.
• Working knowledge of California union payroll, prevailing wage requirements, certified payroll reporting, and multi-local labor administration.
• Willingness to work in a lean office setting and take ownership of both strategic and detailed accounting responsibilities.
• Confidence in communicating financial concerns directly to ownership and driving operational improvements when issues are identified.
• Familiarity with construction accounting or project management platforms such as Construction Partner, Sage 300 CRE, Vista, Foundation, or Procore is preferred.