Controller

CFS; Minneapolis (MN); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

CFS, a growing Midwest organization in the commercial interiors and project-based services space, seeks a hands-on Controller to lead the accounting function, ensuring timely, accurate financial reporting and strong internal controls.

You will manage a small team, partner with project managers, operations and sales, drive process improvements, oversee job costing and WIP, and align with the CFO on strategic initiatives in a construction-related environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting; CPA or CMA preferred but not required.
• 6–10+ years of progressive accounting experience with leadership.
• Construction industry experience required and GAAP knowledge.
• Experience with job costing, WIP schedules, and project-based accounting.
• Advanced Excel skills and financial systems proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily accounting operations, general ledger oversight, and month-end close.
• Review journal entries and balance sheet reconciliations.
• Oversee bank reconciliations, tax compliance, and audits.
• Collaborate with AP, AR, and payroll to ensure accurate financial data.
• Supervise job cost processes and monitor project profitability.

Skills

Leadership

GAAP expertise

Financial analysis

Project-based accounting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting

Tools

Excel

ERP systems

Job description

Location: Plymouth, MN (primarily onsite with flexibility)

Compensation: $120,000–150,000 + bonus eligible

Reports to: CFO

Direct Reports: Sr. Accountant, AR Manager, AP/Payroll Manager

About The Organization

A growing, Midwest-based organization in the commercial interiors and project‑based services space is seeking an experienced Controller to lead its accounting function. The company operates in a dynamic environment with project-driven financials and works closely with clients across workplace, education, healthcare, and other commercial settings. The culture is collaborative, relationship‑focused, and centered on continuous improvement.

The Opportunity

The CFO is looking for a hands‑on accounting leader who can fully own day‑to‑day accounting operations, strengthen financial processes, and provide leadership to a small, experienced accounting team. This role will allow the CFO to shift more time toward strategic initiatives while the Controller ensures timely, accurate, and compliant financial reporting.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys rolling up their sleeves, driving operational excellence, and working closely with cross-functional teams in a construction‑related environment.

Highlights

• A modern, well‑designed workspace with strong technology resources
• A people‑first, values‑driven culture
• Leadership that prioritizes growth, collaboration, and continuous improvement
• Opportunities to participate in company‑wide initiatives, meetings, and community efforts
• Competitive benefits package including medical/dental/vision, disability coverage, retirement match, paid parental leave, PTO, and holidays

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management & Reporting

• Lead daily accounting operations, general ledger oversight, and month‑end close.
• Review and prepare journal entries and balance sheet reconciliations.
• Oversee bank reconciliations and sales/use tax compliance.
• Partner with AP, AR, and payroll functions to ensure accurate financial information.

Compliance, Audit & Regulatory Reporting

• Coordinate internal and external audits (financial, insurance, 401(k), workers’ compensation, etc.).
• Maintain compliance with regulatory, tax, and industry-specific requirements.
• Oversee accurate and timely preparation of insurance, bonding, and regulatory documentation.

Job Cost Accounting

• Supervise job cost processes and monitor project profitability.
• Manage WIP schedules and support project billing activities.
• Review AIA billing, lien waivers, and contract compliance.
• Reconcile job‑related billings to costs and contract values.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of three.
• Work closely with project managers, operations, and sales teams.
• Collaborate with executive leadership on financial decisions and process optimization.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting (CPA or CMA preferred but not required)
• 6–10+ years of progressive accounting experience
• Accounting leadership experience
• Construction industry experience required
• Strong understanding of GAAP and revenue recognition
• Experience with job costing, WIP schedules, and project‑based accounting
• Advanced Excel skills and financial systems proficiency