Controller

CP Engineers•Sparta Township, NJ

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

CP Engineers is seeking a Controller to lead the firm’s accounting operations, financial reporting, and internal controls in support of profitable project delivery and long-term growth. This role serves as a key member of the leadership team, partnering closely with executive leadership and practice leaders to provide financial insight, strengthen operational performance, and support strategic decision-making. The ideal candidate brings deep experience in professional services or engineering environments, with a strong understanding of project-based accounting, revenue recognition, and financial systems.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
12+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience, including leadership experience
Prior experience as a Controller (or equivalent) within an engineering, architecture, or professional services firm strongly preferred
Strong knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, internal controls, and cash management
Experience with project-based accounting including WIP, revenue recognition, billing, and job cost tracking
Proficiency with financial/project accounting systems (Deltek Ajera preferred; similar systems acceptable)
CPA strongly preferred; MBA a plus
Advanced Excel and financial reporting skills
Proven ability to lead teams, improve processes, and collaborate across a project-based organization

Nice To Haves

CPA strongly preferred
MBA a plus
Deltek Ajera preferred; similar systems acceptable

Responsibilities

Lead all accounting operations including general ledger, month-end close, reconciliations, and GAAP-compliant financial reporting.
Deliver timely, accurate financial statements and performance dashboards (including utilization, realization, DSO, and cash flow) to executive leadership.
Oversee job cost tracking, WIP, percent complete revenue recognition, billing, and collections.
Partner with project managers to improve billing cycles, reduce write-offs, and strengthen cash flow.
Serve as a strategic partner to the President/CEO, Principals, and practice leaders by providing financial insights, forecasting, and scenario modeling to support growth and operational decisions, including strategic initiatives and potential acquisitions.
Maintain strong internal controls, policies, and procedures.
Continuously improve processes across budgeting, payroll, financial reporting, and system utilization.
Oversee cash flow forecasting, banking relationships, and financial planning to maintain liquidity and support growth.
Serve as business owner for financial and project accounting systems (e.g., Deltek Ajera), ensuring data accuracy, reporting consistency, and efficiency.
Lead and mentor the accounting team across A/P, A/R, payroll, billing, and general ledger functions, fostering accountability and continuous improvement.
Manage relationships with auditors, tax advisors, and financial institutions.
Oversee audits, tax filings, and insurance/bonding requirements.