Controller

Job Description

Job Description

Controller

Location: Chicago, IL (8 minutes from O'Hare)
Department: Accounting
Reports To: COO
Employment Type: Full-Time | Exempt

About John Keno & Company
At JKC, we’re a family-owned heavy civil construction known for our “Can Do. Will Do.” mindset and commitment to teamwork, innovation, and integrity. From large-scale public projects to private developments, our team takes pride in building our employees and projects with purpose, safely and with excellence.

About the Role
The Controller will oversee all financial and accounting operations for the construction company, ensuring accurate financial reporting, compliance with industry regulations, and strategic financial planning. This role serves as a key business partner to senior management, providing insights that support operational efficiency, project profitability, and long-term growth. The ideal candidate has deep knowledge of construction accounting practices, job costing, WIP schedules, and contract billing.

What You’ll Do

• Oversee daily accounting operations, including general ledger, payroll, accounts payable/receivable, and banking.
• Prepare accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
• Manage Work-in-Progress (WIP) schedules, job costing, and contract billing specific to construction projects.
• Develop and monitor budgets, forecasts, and cash flow projections.
• Partner with project managers to track job performance, costs, and profitability.
• Ensure compliance with all tax and financial reporting requirements.
• Lead and mentor the accounting team, fostering a culture of accuracy, collaboration, and accountability.
• Partner with leadership on financial strategy, risk management, and process improvement initiatives.
• Champion technology adoption (e.g., ERP or construction accounting platforms like Sage, Viewpoint, or Procore).

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field (CPA or CMA preferred) required.
• 8+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience, including 3+ years in a Controller or senior leadership role.
• Experience in the construction industry (general contractor, subcontractor, or specialty trade).
• Strong understanding of construction accounting principles (WIP, retainage, percentage-of-completion, job costing).
• Proficiency with construction accounting software (Sage 300, Viewpoint Vista, CMiC, Procore).
• Excellent leadership, analytical, and communication skills.

Why Join JKC

• Family-owned company with a collaborative and supportive culture.
• Meaningful work on high-impact infrastructure and community projects.
• Opportunities to lead, grow, and shape financial strategy.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.

Excellent Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Vacation / PTO
• 401k plus employer contribution
• Profit sharing
• Bonus potential
• PPO Health Insurance
• Cell phone allowance
• Training & education stipends

Target Salary: $120,000 - $175,000 We consider several job-related factors when determining an individual’s starting compensation within the posted salary range. These factors may include relevant skills and experience, education, required licensure or certifications, the scope and responsibilities of the position, business needs, and current market conditions.

JOHN KENO AND COMPANY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Work Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00AM–5:00 PM

If you’re ready to bring financial clarity and strategic insight to a team that builds more than just projects, apply today and grow with JKC.