Construction Controller

Pipkin Construction•East Wenatchee, WA

3d•$110,000 - $150,000•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a strategic, hands-on finance leader to join our team as a Controller. The successful candidate will serve as Controller, with a path to grow into the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) role as the company scales. Experience in Construction or Cost Accounting is essential. The ideal candidate will bring a solid understanding of the unique financial complexities of the construction industry, including project-based accounting, job costing, work-in-progress (WIP) reporting, and contract compliance. Familiarity with AIA billing, retention, and change order management is highly valued. This role requires more than just accounting expertise — we are looking for someone with strong business acumen and leadership potential. The Controller will oversee day-to-day financial team operations, implement and maintain internal controls, deliver accurate financial reporting, and oversee the Payroll and HR functions of the organization. Just as importantly, the Controller will act as a strategic partner, providing insights and analysis that drive informed decision-making across the organization. As the company grows, this position will play a critical role in shaping and executing executive-level financial strategy, helping lead the business through its next stages of development.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
7+ years of progressive experience in accounting or financial leadership roles.
Proven experience in construction or cost accounting, with a deep understanding of WIP schedules, job costing, and AIA billing.
Strong knowledge of GAAP and internal controls.
Proficiency in accounting and project management software used in the construction industry (e.g., QuickBooks, Sage 300 CRE, Viewpoint, Foundation, or similar).
Experience managing or overseeing HR functions, such as employee benefits, compliance, and recruiting.
Integrity and honesty
Analytical by nature with attention to detail and accuracy.
The ability to lead others: building relationships that empower people both internally and externally.
Able to respond quickly to changing environments with problem solving and decision making.
Initiative and results driven while incorporating continuous process improvement.
Experience leading a team, driving results, and meeting deadlines.

Nice To Haves

CPA, CMA, or MBA.
Prior experience working in a Controller or CFO role in a construction or project-based business.
Experience with ERP implementations or upgrades.
Familiarity with Washington state prevailing wage, lien laws, certified payroll, and related federal and state employment taxes.

Responsibilities

Financial Operations & Reporting Oversee all day-to-day accounting operations including AP/AR, payroll, general ledger, and financial reporting.
Ensure timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and yearend Financial Statement reporting.
Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis.
Develop financial and tax strategies Construction Accounting & Compliance Apply knowledge of construction accounting principles, including job costing, percent-complete revenue recognition, and cost allocation.
Maintain and refine job costing systems and construction accounting procedures.
Prepare and analyze Workin-Progress (WIP) schedule.
Monitor contract compliance, change order tracking, retention management, etc.
Collaborate with project managers and operations teams to align financial oversight with project execution.
Manage and ensure accuracy of certified payroll and union reporting (if applicable).
Financial Controls & Systems Establish and maintain effective internal controls and accounting policies.
Lead the implementation or optimization of financial systems and reporting tools.
Ensure compliance with GAAP and relevant laws and regulations.
Work with external CPAs on annual reviews/audits and tax preparation.
Strategic Leadership & Growth Serve as a financial advisor to the leadership team, providing insight and guidance on key decisions.
Support strategic planning, investment decisions, and capital expenditure analysis.
Lead financial strategy, planning, and risk management as the business grows.
Evaluate and improve KPIs, dashboards, and financial models to drive performance.
Third Parties Participate in conference calls with key relationship manager.
Maintain banking relationships Represent the Company with surety