Controller

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced Controller to guide the accounting and financial reporting activities for a growing engineering firm in Durham, North Carolina. This position is well suited for a hands-on finance leader who understands project-based operations and can translate financial data into practical insight for business leaders. The successful candidate will oversee core accounting functions, strengthen reporting accuracy, and support sound decision-making across the organization.

Responsibilities:
• Direct daily financial operations across the accounting function, including ledger management, payables, receivables, payroll, and project-related accounting activity
• Lead monthly, quarterly, and annual close cycles by reviewing reconciliations, posting entries, analyzing balances, and ensuring reporting deadlines are met
• Produce reliable financial statements and management reports that give leadership clear visibility into business performance
• Administer project accounting activities such as project setup, budget tracking, labor analysis, revenue recognition, contract review, and profitability evaluation
• Work closely with project managers and operational stakeholders to monitor costs, billing progress, margins, and overall project financial health
• Strengthen internal controls, accounting guidelines, and financial procedures to improve consistency, accuracy, and compliance
• Oversee cash flow planning and contribute financial insight to budgeting, forecasting, and variance review processes
• Coordinate audit support, tax preparation activities, and required federal, state, and local financial reporting
• Mentor and manage accounting team members through coaching, performance oversight, and development support
• Use Unanet or similar financial systems to enhance reporting quality, project tracking, and operational efficiency• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a closely related discipline
• At least 7 years of progressively responsible accounting experience, including team or functional leadership
• Prior experience within engineering, architecture, construction, or another services environment requiring strong attention to detail is strongly preferred
• Demonstrated expertise in project accounting and the financial mechanics of project-based organizations
• Strong background in financial statement preparation and ownership of month-end and year-end close processes
• Working knowledge of revenue recognition, contract accounting, and applicable financial reporting standards
• Experience with Unanet or Uninet is preferred, along with advanced Excel and accounting systems proficiency
• Clear communication skills with the ability to partner effectively with executives, project managers, and cross-functional teams