Sector/Divisional Controller - Utilities & Rail

LJA•Houston, TX

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

As the Sector/Divisional Controller – Utilities & Rail, you will be responsible for overseeing all project accounting across a portfolio of construction-focused subsidiaries within a ~$800 million organization. This role acts as a key business partner to sector operational leadership, project managers, and corporate finance overseeing approximately $125M-$150M in annual revenue. Reporting to the Corporate Controller, this role is responsible for the integrity of sector financial reporting, month-end close activities, project accounting oversight, billing and collections coordination, balance sheet reconciliations, internal controls, and compliance with company policies and U.S. GAAP. The Sector/Divisional Controller will help drive consistency, visibility, and financial discipline across a multi-state AEC operating environment while developing a high-performing accounting team.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required
10+ years of progressive accounting experience, including leadership responsibility in a controller, assistant controller, accounting manager, or similar role
Experience in the architecture, engineering, consulting, construction, or broader professional services environment, with strong understanding of project-based accounting
Demonstrated experience overseeing multi-entity or multi-state accounting operations and applying sound internal control practices
Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP, financial reporting, account reconciliations, audit support, and compliance requirements
Deep understanding of project lifecycle accounting, including revenue recognition, billing, collections, backlog, work in process, and project profitability analysis
Ability to translate financial data into actionable insights for operational leaders and executive stakeholders
Proven leadership, coaching, and team development capabilities, with strong communication and cross-functional partnership skills
Advanced proficiency in Excel and experience with ERP and project accounting systems used in the AEC or professional services industry

Nice To Haves

CPA strongly preferred
Preferred systems experience includes BST, UNANET, Deltek, Microsoft Dynamics 365, Trimble Spectrum/Viewpoint or similar ERP and project accounting platforms used in the AEC industry

Responsibilities

Lead day-to-day project accounting operations for the Utilities and Rail sectors, including month-end close, account reconciliations, and financial reporting.
Partner with sector leaders and project managers to monitor project performance, including backlog, work in process, unbilled receivables, write-offs, change orders, and cost overruns.
Ensure proper accounting and reporting associated with retainage, mobilization and contract billing structures.
Ensure timely and accurate preparation of sector-level financial statements, management reports, variance analyses, and other decision-support reporting for the Corporate Controller and business leadership.
Support bonding capacity requirements through accurate financial reporting.
Assist with implementation of ERP systems and software, including access, design and setup as needed.
Lead or support integration of newly acquired subsidiaries, including alignment of accounting practices and procedures.
Maintain and strengthen internal controls, accounting policies, and standard operating procedures to support compliance, consistency, and scalability across multiple states and operating units.
Support internal and external audits by preparing schedules, responding to requests, and ensuring documentation is complete and accurate.
Collaborate with tax, payroll, AP, AR, and corporate accounting teams on cross-functional issues, including intercompany activity, allocations, and process improvements.
Coach, develop, and review the work of 10-15 project accountants and accounting staff supporting the Utilities and Rail sectors.
Identify opportunities to improve reporting, data quality, automation, and workflow efficiency within the accounting function.
Perform other accounting leadership duties and special projects as assigned.

Benefits

Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
Generous Time Off: PTO, paid holidays, and a full office closure between Christmas and New Year’s.
Comprehensive Benefits: Multiple plan options for health, dental, and pets. Along with mental health support.
Family Support: Paid maternity and parental leave to help you focus on what matters most.
Education Support: Tuition reimbursement and in-house courses provided by our Learning and Development team.
Referral Bonuses: Know great talent? Get rewarded for helping us grow.
Community Impact: Company-sponsored volunteer days and philanthropic initiatives.
Professional Development: Memberships to industry organizations to keep you connected and growing.
Career Growth: Great internal mobility opportunities to advance your career.
Fun Culture: LJA social events, employee sports teams, bring your kid to work day, etc.