Construction Controller: Strategy, WIP & Growth Lead

Pathway Talent Partners; Minneapolis, Saint Paul (MN, MN); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Pathway Talent Partners is conducting a confidential search for a Controller for a growing construction organization. You will oversee the accounting function, construction job costing, WIP reporting, cash flow management, budgeting, and external reporting while partnering with executives on strategic initiatives.

This hands‑on role requires deep construction experience, GAAP expertise, and strong leadership to strengthen processes and leverage technology for scalable growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience.
• Construction industry accounting experience with WIP schedules and job costing.
• Strong understanding of GAAP and financial reporting.
• Experience managing accounting staff and processes.
• Experience with ERP/accounting systems and payroll platforms.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the monthly and annual financial close process.
• Prepare accurate financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
• Maintain strong internal controls and accounting procedures.
• Coordinate annual audits and work directly with external accounting partners.
• Own monthly WIP schedules and percentage‑of‑completion accounting.
• Partner with project management teams to review job performance, costs, change orders, and forecasts.
• Ensure accurate job costing, revenue recognition, and project reporting.
• Identify project margin trends and financial risks.
• Lead annual budgeting and periodic forecasting processes.
• Monitor performance against budget and provide variance analysis.
• Support strategic planning and operational decision‑making through financial insights and reporting.
• Manage cash flow forecasting and working capital.
• Maintain relationships with banking, insurance, and bonding partners.
• Support financing requirements and compliance reporting.
• Oversee payroll processes and related financial controls.
• Support benefits administration and compliance initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Coordinate tax filings and compliance with external advisors.
• Support multi‑entity and multi‑state reporting requirements as applicable.
• Manage annual reporting obligations and registrations.
• Lead and mentor accounting and finance team members.
• Establish clear performance expectations and accountability.
• Develop scalable processes that support organizational growth.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency through technology, automation, and AI‑enabled tools.
• Optimize reporting capabilities and financial systems.
• Drive continuous improvement across finance and accounting functions.

Skills

GAAP understanding

Financial reporting

Team leadership

ERP systems

Cash management

Process improvement

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting

Tools

ERP experience

Payroll platforms

Job description

Pathway Talent Partners is conducting a confidential search for a Controller for a growing construction organization. You will oversee the accounting function, construction job costing, WIP reporting, cash flow management, budgeting, and external reporting while partnering with executives on strategic initiatives.

This hands‑on role requires deep construction experience, GAAP expertise, and strong leadership to strengthen processes and leverage technology for scalable growth.