Controller-Mechanical Construction

Kimmel & Associates • San Diego, CA

5d

About The Position

Our client is an established commercial mechanical contractor specializing in large-scale HVAC projects across the United States. The company is known for delivering complex mechanical solutions and values quality, operational efficiency, and customer relationships. With a growing nationwide project portfolio and a hands-on leadership team, it offers a role where financial leadership directly contributes to operational performance and long-term growth.

The Controller will oversee all accounting and financial operations and serve as a key business partner to the CEO. This hands-on, player-coach position manages the company's accounting functions, strengthens financial controls, and ensures accurate reporting across a multi-state construction operation. Responsibilities span close processes, work-in-progress reporting, percentage-of-completion accounting, job costing, payroll, benefits administration, and financial compliance. The Controller will provide strategic financial guidance while leading and working alongside accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and project accounting teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• At least 7 years of progressive accounting and financial management experience.
• At least 5 years in a Controller or Assistant Controller position within a commercial construction company or specialty trade contractor.
• Strong understanding of GAAP, construction accounting, and financial reporting requirements.
• Demonstrated experience with WIP schedules, percentage-of-completion accounting, ASC 606, and construction job costing.
• Experience overseeing multi-state payroll operations and certified payroll compliance.
• Experience managing 401(k) administration, employee benefits, and incentive compensation programs.
• Familiarity with surety and banking relationships, financial audits, and external reporting requirements.
• Experience implementing internal controls and improving accounting processes.
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to manage, develop, and work alongside an accounting team.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of construction insurance programs, including OCIP and CCIP.
• Understanding of R&D tax credits and Section 179D deductions.
• Experience with Sage 300 CRE or comparable construction accounting software.

Responsibilities

• Oversee accounting operations, including the general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and project accounting.
• Manage monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes and ensure compliance with GAAP.
• Direct work-in-progress reporting, percentage-of-completion accounting, and ASC 606 revenue recognition.
• Oversee project-level financial reporting, job costing, cost analysis, and contract performance monitoring.
• Maintain relationships with banks, surety providers, external auditors, and other financial partners.
• Manage in-house, multi-state payroll operations, including certified payroll requirements and related compliance.
• Oversee employee benefits administration, 401(k) plan coordination, and relationships with third-party administrators.
• Manage company insurance programs, including workers' compensation, general liability, and OCIP/CCIP requirements.
• Administer employee bonus and incentive compensation programs.
• Identify opportunities to maximize financial benefits through available R&D tax credits and Section 179D deductions.
• Develop, implement, and maintain internal controls, accounting procedures, and financial reporting standards.
• Lead, mentor, and support the accounting team while remaining actively involved in daily operations.
• Partner with the CEO and operational leadership on financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and recommendations to improve business performance.
• Identify opportunities to streamline accounting processes, improve reporting accuracy, and strengthen financial visibility across the organization.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Annual base salary of $120,000–$150,000, depending on experience.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Additional benefits and compensation opportunities.
• Direct access to executive leadership and the opportunity to influence financial and operational strategy.
• Long-term career growth within an established commercial mechanical contracting organization.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior