Controller

Pfluger Architects; Austin (TX); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Pfluger Architects is seeking a Controller to oversee financial reporting and accounting functions in Austin, Texas. This role requires a commitment to accuracy and integrity in financial processes, alongside mentorship of the accounting team to support the firm’s long-term success.

The ideal candidate will have strong qualifications, including a CPA license and extensive experience in the AEC industry. The position allows for hybrid working conditions, fostering a collaborative and efficient financial environment.

Qualifications

• Alignment with Pfluger’s purpose of creating meaningful human experiences.
• Experience overseeing payroll, accounts receivable (AR), accounts payable (AP), project accounting, invoicing and reconciliations.
• Experience managing financial reporting and collaborating with external tax advisors.

Responsibilities

• Oversee payroll, AR, AP, project accounting and financial reconciliations.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and internal financial policies.
• Optimize ERP use to improve financial reporting and operational efficiency.

Skills

GAAP accounting knowledge

Experience in financial reporting

Organizational skills

Verbal communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance or Economics

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license

Tools

ERP software experience

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Controller

Department: Finance

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Austin, Texas

Description

The Controller is responsible for overseeing the firm’s accounting and financial reporting while providing insights to firmwide budget owners. This individual ensures the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting, manages the day-to-day accounting functions, and develops strong internal controls. This individual is a proactive leader that brings experience in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry and a strong accounting and financial reporting background to model a business partnering culture for the organization. The Controller leverages an analytical mindset with the ability to drive efficiency and innovation in financial workflows to ensure the firm’s accounting processes scale with growth. In addition to maintaining the financial health of the firm and ensuring compliance, the Controller mentors and empowers the accounting team, cultivating a high-performing, forward-thinking business unit that fuels the firm’s long-term success.

Role & Responsibilities

Leadership & Organizational Alignment

• Embody Pfluger’s core values. Consistently demonstrate the principles of Do What’s Right, Build Synergy, Make a Difference, and Never Settle in all professional activities.

Accounting & Financial Operations

• Oversee and manage payroll, accounts receivable (AR), accounts payable (AP), project accounting, invoicing, and financial reconciliations, ensuring efficiency and accuracy.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, regulatory requirements, and internal financial policies.
• Oversee and manage month-end and year-end closing processes, ensuring timely completion of journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial reporting.
• Ensure the timely completion of monthly deposits and reporting of financial transactions.
• Oversee government census reporting and ensure accurate and timely submission.
• Structure the finance team for efficiency and accountability, ensuring roles, responsibilities, and workflows align with evolving business needs.
• Oversee project accountants and their support of project managers through financial reporting and analysis, including the management of WIP, revenue recognition and project accruals.
• Oversee the firm’s credit card procurement system, ensuring proper employee usage and documentation.

Risk Management & Compliance

• Maintain and improve financial controls to safeguard company assets and ensure the accuracy of financial statements.
• Coordinate audits and tax filings with external accountants.
• Manage debt and monitor financial obligations to optimize cash flow and minimize risk.
• Develop and maintain policies and procedures that strengthen financial governance and mitigate fraud risks.

ERP System Management & Process Improvement

• Optimize the use of the firm’s ERP system, to improve financial reporting, forecasting, and operational efficiency.
• Provide training and guidance to internal teams on financial processes and best practices, ensuring company-wide financial literacy.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to integrate financial systems and data strategies that enhance business intelligence, reporting accuracy, and data-driven decision-making across the firm.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the accounting function to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and transparency.

People Leadership & Talent Development

• Directly supervise and manage accounting staff per Pfluger People Leader expectations.
• Mentor and support accounting staff, providing guidance and fostering a culture of collaboration and professional development.

Experience & Qualifications

• Alignment with Pfluger’s purpose of inspiring people to create a more meaningful human experience, with a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
• Excellent GAAP accounting knowledge and experience in financial reporting.
• Experience overseeing accounting functions, including payroll, AR, AP, project accounting, invoicing, and reconciliations.
• Experience managing financial reporting and working with external tax advisors to ensure tax compliance.
• Advanced proficiency with ERP software in an AEC environment. Deltek Vision, Ajera or VantagePoint experience is a plus.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, with the ability to design and build complex spreadsheets.
• Experience in Architecture, Engineering, Construction, and/or Project Management is required.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively, have complex financial conversations, and guide accounting staff.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance or Economics is required.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is required.
• Minimum of seven years of relevant accounting and finance experience.

Location

The Controller must be prepared to work three days per week in Pfluger’s local office and may work remotely two days per week. Travel may be required to Pfluger’s other offices.