Financial Controller - $36.06 - $48.08 per hour

Overview

This Controller position is a hands-on finance leadership role responsible for managing day-to-day accounting operations, including bookkeeping, general ledger management, payroll coordination, invoicing, and financial reporting. The role supports compliance with federal financial regulations, budgeting, audit readiness, and accurate financial data across projects. It involves close collaboration with HR, operations, and leadership to ensure timely, complete, and reliable financial information.

This opportunity is with an early-stage organization where the Controller will help build and shape the finance function from the ground up. Prior government contracting experience is helpful but not required, with training and support provided.

Responsibilities

Financial Leadership and Controls

• Serve as the senior accounting resource for the organization.
• Manage the full accounting cycle, from transaction entry through monthly close and reporting.
• Develop and maintain internal controls, accounting policies, and financial procedures as the organization scales.
• Partner with leadership on budgeting, cash flow management, and financial planning.

Financial Recordkeeping and Transactions

• Maintain general ledger entries, accounts payable, and accounts receivable.
• Record daily financial transactions in accounting systems.
• Use accounting software such as Sage Intacct, when applicable.
• Reconcile bank statements, credit card accounts, and resolve financial discrepancies.
• Ensure financial data is accurate, complete, and properly documented.

Government Contracting Compliance

• Support accounting processes aligned with government contracting standards.
• Maintain documentation for audit readiness and compliance reviews.
• Track project expenses and ensure cost allocation aligns with contract requirements.
• Assist with financial reporting for government contracts and grants.
• Support compliance with applicable federal financial regulations.

Payroll and Expense Management

• Coordinate payroll data with HR systems such as Rippling or similar platforms.
• Process employee reimbursements and contractor payments.
• Monitor timesheet data to ensure alignment with financial reporting requirements.

Invoicing and Reporting

• Prepare client invoices and monitor payment collections.
• Generate monthly financial reports for leadership review.
• Assist with budget tracking, forecasting, and variance analysis.

Audit and Documentation Support

• Maintain organized and secure financial records.
• Assist with internal and external audits.
• Ensure proper document retention in accordance with compliance requirements.

Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• 2 to 5 years of progressive accounting experience, such as senior accountant, accounting manager, or similar role.
• Strong understanding of general accounting principles, including GAAP.
• Experience with accounting software; Sage Intacct experience preferred but not required.
• High attention to detail and accuracy in financial recordkeeping.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with HR, operations, and leadership teams.
• Ability to handle sensitive financial information with confidentiality.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Sage Intacct or similar ERP systems.
• Experience in government contracting environments.
• Awareness of FAR compliance.
• Experience with payroll systems such as Rippling or UKG Ready.
• Knowledge of cost accounting and indirect rate structures.
• Experience with financial reporting for federal or state-funded projects.
• QuickBooks Certification or equivalent.
• Bookkeeping or accounting certifications.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.

Compensation

• Salary range: $75,000 - $100,000 per year