Controller

ZFA Structural Engineers is a Northern California-based structural engineering firm dedicated to their employees, clients, projects, and the communities they live in. With a diverse group of talented engineers, drafters, and staff in 5 offices, we value a tight-knit, personalized experience for their staff and clients alike. Since 1974, they’ve been dedicated to designing new and revitalized places to live, work, learn, heal, and play in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond. They’ve done a lot, but they continue to learn new skills, grow their business, and stay curious about engineering and the built environment. The Controller manages the firm’s financial operations, including accounting, budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring accurate financial records, complying with legal and regulatory requirements, and providing financial insights to management. The Controller establishes internal controls and monitors the work of the accounting team to maintain high standards of accuracy, quality and compliance. A deep understanding and application of the financial principles to the Firm’s business is a critical component. Shows initiative in accounting department and firm-wide improvements. The Controller reports to the CFO. Overview of your responsibilities: Operational Technical Marketing and Business Development Risk Management Supervisory Your Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in business management, accounting or finance Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is preferred A minimum of seven (7) years of accounting experience 10+ years preferred A minimum of five (5) years, 10 years preferable of AEC industry experience Knowledge and proficiency in accounting principles and practices is required Prior supervisory experience is required Must possess a valid California drivers’ license, proof of auto insurance and be insurable under agency policy if driving a company or personal vehicle Excellent computer skills and display advanced proficiency in MS Suite (Word/Excel/Outlook) The ability to learn new software or quickly Experience in Deltek Vision or Vantagepoint preferred. Demonstrated comfort evaluating and adopting AI and automation tools in a finance function, including activating native AI features in Vantagepoint (Dela, ICR for AP and expenses, Timesheet Assist) and FloQast (AI flux commentary, anomaly detection); piloting Microsoft Copilot in Excel; and assessing AI-powered AP automation platforms (e.g., Bill.com AI, Vic.ai). Ability to develop and enforce an AI Governance Policy covering approved tools, data privacy standards, output review requirements, and prohibited uses. Experience building or managing a finance technology roadmap is a plus. #J-18808-Ljbffr