Controller

Vaco Recruiter Services; East Windsor (CT); On-site; USD 117,000 - 143,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) match

Comprehensive benefits package

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Vaco Recruiter Services is seeking an experienced Controller in East Windsor, CT to lead day-to-day accounting and manage a small team. You will work directly with the CFO to drive financial reporting, cost analysis, and internal controls in a fast-paced, project-based environment.

The role requires hands-on leadership, GAAP expertise, and a track record of improving financial processes. A Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance is required, with QuickBooks experience (NetSuite a plus).

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Experience in construction, engineering, manufacturing, or project-based industries.
• Advanced GAAP knowledge and financial reporting.
• Experience with QuickBooks; NetSuite a plus.
• Experience leading month-end close and supervising accounting team.

Responsibilities

• Lead monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes.
• Oversee the accounting team (AP/AR/Payroll).
• Prepare and review financial statements and management reporting.
• Perform cost accounting, job costing, and profitability analysis.
• Manage bank reconciliations, journal entries, and reconciliations.
• Prepare multi-state sales/use tax filings and 1099 reporting.
• Strengthen internal controls and ensure reporting integrity.
• Partner with CFO for financial analysis and insights.
• Manage vendor relationships and contract compliance.
• Support process improvements and drive efficiencies across accounting.

Skills

Leadership

Cost accounting

Job costing

GAAP awareness

Financial reporting

Excel proficiency

Multi-state tax

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

Tools

QuickBooks

NetSuite

Job description

Controller

Location: East Windsor, CT

Compensation: Up to $130K (DOE)

We are partnering with a growing organization to identify an experienced Controller to lead the day‑to‑day accounting function and oversee a small, collaborative accounting team. This is a hands‑on leadership opportunity for someone who enjoys balancing technical accounting, operational finance, and team leadership while working closely with executive management.

Reporting directly to the CFO, this individual will play a key role in financial reporting, cost analysis, internal controls, and strategic decision‑making. The ideal candidate is a proven Controller who thrives in a fast‑paced environment, enjoys wearing multiple hats, and brings a steady, collaborative leadership style.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes
• Oversee the accounting team, including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, and Payroll functions
• Prepare and review financial statements and management reporting
• Perform cost accounting, job costing, profitability analysis, and margin reporting
• Manage bank reconciliations, journal entries, and account reconciliations
• Prepare multi‑state sales and use tax filings, 1099 reporting, and commission calculations
• Strengthen internal controls and ensure the integrity of financial reporting
• Partner closely with the CFO to provide financial analysis and operational insights
• Manage vendor relationships and oversee compliance with contractual requirements
• Support process improvements and help drive operational efficiencies across the accounting function

Top Priorities for This Role

1. Strong Controller experience within a project‑based industry
2. Cost accounting and job costing expertise
3. Hands‑on leadership and team management

Ideal Background

• Proven experience as a Controller (no step‑up candidates)
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• Strong experience within construction, engineering, manufacturing, or other project‑based industries
• Advanced knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting
• Experience with QuickBooks required (NetSuite experience will also be considered for exceptional candidates)
• Strong understanding of cost accounting, job costing, and profitability analysis
• Experience leading month‑end close and managing accounting operations
• Prior supervisory experience leading an accounting team
• Strong Excel and financial systems proficiency

What Makes Someone Successful Here?

• Hands‑on leader who enjoys being involved in the day‑to‑day accounting operations
• Calm, collaborative, and team‑oriented personality
• Strong attention to detail with a disciplined approach to financial accuracy
• Comfortable adapting to changing priorities while maintaining structure and organization
• Analytical problem solver who proactively identifies opportunities for improvement
• Values accountability, stability, and building strong working relationships

Why Consider This Opportunity?

• Report directly to an experienced CFO and work closely with executive leadership
• Lead a collaborative accounting team in a stable, growing organization
• Opportunity to make a significant impact on financial processes and operational improvements
• Family‑oriented culture with long‑tenured employees and strong leadership
• Visible leadership role with meaningful influence across the organization
• Opportunity to help shape the future of a well‑established company experiencing continued growth

Benefits & Additional Information

• Competitive base salary
• 401(k) match
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Stable, growing organization with a collaborative team environment
• Opportunity to build a long‑term career within an established company
• Retirement backfill with a well‑planned transition alongside the current Controller

If you’re an experienced Controller looking for a hands‑on leadership opportunity where you can drive financial excellence, mentor a team, and partner closely with executive leadership, we’d welcome the opportunity to discuss this confidential position further.