Construction Controller: Lead Financial Strategy & WIP

John Keno & Company, Inc; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

Vacation / PTO

401k plus employer contribution

Profit sharing

Bonus potential

PPO Health Insurance

Cell phone allowance

Training & education stipends

Job summary

John Keno & Company, Inc. seeks a Controller to oversee all financial and accounting operations for a heavy civil construction firm in Chicago, ensuring GAAP reporting, compliance, and strategic planning.

The ideal candidate brings 8+ years in accounting, 3+ years in a Controller role, and construction-industry expertise, including WIP, job costing, and contract billing. Leadership and ERP proficiency are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field (CPA or CMA preferred).
• 8+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience, including 3+ years in a Controller or senior leadership role.
• Construction industry experience (general contractor, subcontractor, or specialty trades).
• Strong knowledge of construction accounting (WIP, retainage, percentage-of-completion, job costing).
• Proficiency with construction accounting software (Sage 300, Viewpoint Vista, CMiC, Procore).
• Excellent leadership, analytical, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily accounting operations including general ledger, payroll, accounts payable/receivable, and banking.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
• Manage Work-in-Progress (WIP) schedules, job costing, and contract billing for construction projects.
• Develop and monitor budgets, forecasts, and cash flow projections.
• Partner with project managers to track job performance, costs, and profitability.
• Ensure compliance with tax and financial reporting requirements.
• Lead and mentor the accounting team, fostering accuracy, collaboration, and accountability.
• Partner with leadership on financial strategy, risk management, and process improvement initiatives.
• Champion technology adoption (ERP or construction accounting platforms like Sage, Viewpoint, or Procore).

Skills

Leadership

Analytical

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in accounting/finance

CPA or CMA preferred

Tools

Sage 300

Viewpoint Vista

CMiC

Procore

Job description

John Keno & Company, Inc. seeks a Controller to oversee all financial and accounting operations for a heavy civil construction firm in Chicago, ensuring GAAP reporting, compliance, and strategic planning.

The ideal candidate brings 8+ years in accounting, 3+ years in a Controller role, and construction-industry expertise, including WIP, job costing, and contract billing. Leadership and ERP proficiency are essential.