Controller

Gilder Search Group; Henderson (NV); On-site; USD 120,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

401(k) plan

Job summary

Gilder Search Group is conducting a search for a Controller for a respected construction-related company. This leadership role goes beyond routine accounting, partnering with ownership to elevate processes and controls.

The ideal candidate will guide a small accounting team, drive strong month-end closes, and apply financial data to strategic decisions, with a clear path to broader leadership over time.

Qualifications

• Experience leading a finance team in a Controller or senior accounting role.
• Strong understanding of construction accounting, including WIP schedules.
• Proven ability to improve processes, implement controls, and mentor staff.
• Comfortable operating hands-on in a leadership role and building trust with ownership.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the accounting function, including AR, payroll, and AP oversight.
• Oversee month-end close and timely, accurate financial reporting (target ~10th).
• Maintain WIP schedules and oversee multi-entity financials including real estate portions.
• Partner with ownership as a trusted advisor to drive operational and strategic decisions.

Skills

Leadership experience

Construction accounting

WIP management

Team management

Internal controls

Hands-on accounting

Education

CPA preferred

Accounting/Finance degree

Job description

Position Summary

We are conducting search for a Controller on behalf of an established and highly respected construction-related company. This is not a traditional “back-office” accounting role—this is a true leadership position with a clear path to expanded responsibility over time.

The ideal candidate will go beyond managing day-to-day accounting operations and step into a trusted advisor role, partnering closely with ownership to improve processes, strengthen systems, and elevate the overall financial function. This individual will play a key role in shaping the future of the organization and is expected to grow into a broader leadership seat over time.

This is an opportunity for someone who wants to make a real impact, lead from the front, and be part of a company with strong leadership, long-tenured employees, and a positive culture.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Oversight

• Lead and manage the accounting function, including oversight of:
  • Accounts Receivable & Collections
  • Payroll & Accounts Payable
• Provide day-to-day leadership, mentorship, and development to a small accounting team
• Establish a strong in-office presence and set the tone for accountability, urgency, and professionalism

Financial Management

• Oversee month-end close process and ensure timely, accurate financial reporting (target: ~10th of each month)
• Manage reconciliations including:
  • Bank and credit card accounts
  • Equipment loans
  • Payroll and workers’ compensation accruals
  • Prepaid expenses and insurance
• Maintain and oversee Work-in-Progress (WIP) schedules for construction projects
• Ensure accuracy across multiple related entities, including real estate and affiliated companies

Process Improvement & Strategy

• Identify and implement improvements to accounting processes, controls, and systems
• Strengthen internal controls to ensure accuracy, compliance, and risk mitigation
• Leverage financial data to support operational and strategic decision-making
• Partner with ownership as a trusted advisor, offering insights beyond transactional accounting

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with field operations and office staff to ensure alignment between financials and job performance
• Support job cost tracking and financial visibility across projects
• Collaborate with external accounting partners as needed

What We’re Looking For

We are seeking a hands-on, leadership-drivenController who brings both technical expertise and strong personal integrity.

Key Qualifications:

• Proven experience in a Controller or senior accounting leadership role
• Strong understanding of construction accounting (including WIP) preferred
• Experience managing small teams and developing staff
• Demonstrated ability to improve processes and implement controls
• Comfortable operating in a hands-on environment (not just delegating)
• High level of integrity, accountability, and trustworthiness

Preferred (but not required):

• CPA and/or degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• Experience with multi-entity structures
• Background in both union and non-union environments

Leadership Profile

This role requires someone who:

• Shows up consistently and leads by example
• Brings urgency, follow-through, and strong communication
• Builds trust with ownership and team members alike
• Takes ownership of outcomes—not just tasks
• Is motivated to grow into a larger leadership role over time

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $120,000 – $140,000 (with growth potential based on performance)
• Discretionary bonus structure (typically after first year)
• Medical benefits fully covered for employees
• Dental, vision, and strong 401(k) offering
• Comprehensive benefits through a Professional Employer Organization (PEO)

Work Environment

• Established, stable company with strong industry reputation
• Collaborative, team-oriented culture with long-tenured employees
• Opportunity to work directly with ownership and influence key decisions
• Growing organization with expanding operations, including out-of-state projects