Controller | Engineering Firm
A well-regarded and growing engineering firm in San Francisco is seeking a Controller to lead its finance function. The firm offers a stable, high-performing environment with strong leadership, a collaborative culture, and a genuine commitment to developing its people. This is a role with meaningful scope and a clear path forward for the right candidate.
The Controller will serve as the firm's senior finance leader, working in close partnership with executive leadership and project principals to deliver financial clarity, operational discipline, and strategic support across the business.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the finance function and oversee the accounting team; serve as the primary financial liaison to senior leadership and project principals.
- Own firmwide revenue and cash flow forecasting; manage the annual budgeting process and periodic reforecasts.
- Develop and refine internal controls, standardized procedures, and financial reporting; identify and implement opportunities for automation and system enhancements.
- Oversee AR collections and WIP management; analyze aging accounts and collaborate with project managers to resolve outstanding invoices.
- Mentor and develop the finance team, establishing clear roles and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
- Build out reporting infrastructure - including manager-level dashboards and portfolio analytics - to provide leadership with timely, actionable financial insights.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA strongly preferred
- Minimum 10+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience, with at least 3-5 years in a Controller or Senior Accounting Manager capacity
- Prior experience in the AEC (architecture, engineering, or construction) sector or another project-based professional services environment strongly preferred
- Demonstrated proficiency in percent-complete revenue recognition and project-based accounting
- Experience with ERP or project accounting platforms; familiarity with Deltek, Ajera, BST, or similar AEC-focused systems a plus
- Strong command of AR/WIP management, cash flow forecasting, and multi-entity or multi-project financial reporting
- Proven track record of designing and implementing internal controls and process improvements
- Experience leading and developing small-to-mid-sized accounting teams
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills; ability to operate as both a functional leader and a business partner to non-finance stakeholders
Why Consider This Role
This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned finance professional looking to step into a high-visibility leadership role within a firm that values its people and is positioned for continued growth. The incoming Controller will have the support of senior leadership and the latitude to make a lasting impact on the finance function.
This search is being conducted confidentially on behalf of our client. All inquiries will be handled with discretion. Client details are shared upon mutual interest.
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