Internal Control Specialist

Internal Controls Lead (Contract-to-Hire)

The Woodlands, TX (Hybrid – 4 Days Onsite, Fridays Remote)

Compensation

• Contract Rate: Targeting up to $75/hour W2
• Conversion Salary: $140,000–$155,000
• Target Experience: 7–12 years
• Preferred Certifications: CPA, CIA, or CISA

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced Internal Controls Lead to establish, manage, and continuously improve the organization's internal control environment. This highly visible role will lead internal control design, documentation, testing, remediation, and audit support activities across Accounting, Finance, IT, Supply Chain, Procurement, and Operations.

Reporting to the Accounting organization, this individual will serve as the primary liaison for SOX compliance and audit activities while partnering with business leaders to strengthen governance, risk management, and control effectiveness across the enterprise.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, documentation, and maintenance of internal controls across financial, operational, and technology processes.
• Develop and maintain Risk & Control Matrices (RCMs), process narratives, flowcharts, and supporting documentation.
• Partner with process owners to identify risks, design controls, and improve control effectiveness.
• Lead annual SOX compliance activities, including control testing, remediation tracking, and ICFR assessments.
• Coordinate directly with external auditors, managing walkthroughs, evidence requests, testing schedules, and audit responses.
• Monitor control deficiencies and drive remediation efforts through completion.
• Support enterprise risk assessments and governance initiatives.
• Evaluate process and system changes for potential control impacts.
• Promote a culture of compliance, accountability, and continuous improvement across the organization.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Information Systems, or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in Internal Controls, SOX Compliance, Internal Audit, Public Accounting, Risk Management, or related disciplines.
• Strong understanding of SOX, ICFR, risk assessment methodologies, and audit processes.
• Experience working directly with external auditors.
• Knowledge of financial processes, IT controls, and business process controls.
• Strong communication, documentation, analytical, and organizational skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• CPA, CIA, CISA, or similar certification.
• Experience supporting publicly traded organizations.
• Knowledge of IT General Controls (ITGCs) and application controls.
• Experience with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, or similar platforms.
• Experience building, enhancing, or maturing internal control programs.

This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on controls professional who enjoys partnering across the business, driving compliance initiatives, and building scalable governance processes within a growing organization.