Construction Controller – Lead WIP & Team (Onsite NJ)

Vaco; SOUTH PLAINFIELD (NJ); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Great benefits

Onsite five days per week

Job summary

Vaco in New Jersey is seeking an experienced Controller to lead accounting operations for a construction-focused organization. The role emphasizes hands-on leadership of a small accounting team, timely close processes, and ensuring GAAP-compliant reporting.

The ideal candidate brings 5+ years in construction/HVAC accounting, 8+ years total accounting experience with at least 3 years in supervision, and a proactive mindset to improve processes within a private equity-backed environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required.
• At least 5 years of accounting experience within the construction or HVAC construction industry.
• 8+ years of progressive accounting experience preferred, including at least 3 years in a supervisory or team leadership role.
• Experience with construction accounting principles, including WIP accounting, job costing, and project-based financial reporting.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and financial reporting requirements for U.S. corporations.
• Experience managing or supporting the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes.
• Previous experience with a private equity-backed company is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and motivate an accounting team.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with exceptional attention to detail.
• A proactive mindset and the ability to identify opportunities for process improvement and operational efficiency.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively with both accounting colleagues and business leadership.
• Experience with WIP accounting software and accounting systems is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the monthly, quarterly, and year-end financial close processes with accuracy and timeliness.
• Prepare and review journal entries, reconciliations, schedules, and supporting docs.
• Ensure compliance with U.S. GAAP and reporting requirements.
• Oversee the general ledger, accounts payable, payroll recording, fixed assets, and expense reporting.
• Lead, mentor, and support a team of 3-4 accounting professionals.
• Assist with financial reporting for a private equity-backed organization.
• Oversee construction accounting activities including WIP reporting and job costing.
• Monitor data accuracy to inform management decisions.
• Identify opportunities to streamline procedures and strengthen internal controls.
• Support development of accounting systems, processes, and reporting tooling.
• Collaborate with leadership to support operational goals and financial visibility.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical skills

Communication

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance

Tools

WIP accounting

Job costing

GAAP knowledge

Accounting systems

Job description

Vaco in New Jersey is seeking an experienced Controller to lead accounting operations for a construction-focused organization. The role emphasizes hands-on leadership of a small accounting team, timely close processes, and ensuring GAAP-compliant reporting.

The ideal candidate brings 5+ years in construction/HVAC accounting, 8+ years total accounting experience with at least 3 years in supervision, and a proactive mindset to improve processes within a private equity-backed environment.