Controller

HELIX ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING, INC.; Sacramento (CA); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

HELIX Environmental Planning, INC. is seeking a hands-on Controller to lead the accounting team, partner with the CFO, and shape monthly Close, financial reporting, and system improvements in a dynamic California environment.

Based in San Diego HQ with openness to other HELIX locations, the role emphasizes internal controls, project accounting, audits, and strategic financial planning to support growth during a leadership transition.

Qualifications

• Requires a Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Business.
• 5+ years of experience as a Controller or similar role.
• Proven experience managing professional staff.
• Experience in environmental consulting or A/E professional services.
• Advanced Excel skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the accounting team, including payroll operations
• Manage monthly financial close and prepare consolidated financial reports
• Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, and cash flow management
• Prepare financial statements, projections, and analyses
• Implement and maintain accounting systems, controls, and best practices
• Develop project accounting and reporting systems
• Partner with project managers to improve financial performance through reporting, analysis, and financial guidance
• Serve as liaison for audits and ensure compliance
• Prepare and review tax filings and financial reports
• Drive process improvements and operational efficiencies
• Partner with the CFO on financial planning, strategic initiatives, performance reporting, and finance-related business decisions

Skills

Controller experience

Staff management

Analytical skills

Advanced Excel

Financial reporting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Business

CPA license or Master’s degree (preferred)

Tools

Deltek Vantagepoint

Job description

Description

Join a growing, purpose-driven, employee-owned firm where your expertise as a Controller directly impacts company performance and strategy. At HELIX Environmental Planning, this Controller role offers a rare opportunity to be a hands-on leader, working side-by-side with the CFO to shape financial operations in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. This is an exceptional opportunity to join HELIX during a period of leadership transition and growth, helping shape the future of the finance function and broader financial operations of the company.

Why HELIX?

HELIX Environmental Planning is a respected leader in environmental consulting, known for delivering impactful projects across California. Our culture values integrity, collaboration, innovation, and accountability. This role is ideally based at our San Diego headquarters, where many of our executive and operational teams are located. That said, we are open to exceptional candidates based in other HELIX office locations, as well as individuals interested in relocating to San Diego over time.

Day in the Life

As a Controller, you’ll be at the center of financial operations, partnering closely with the CFO while leading the accounting team. Your day may include guiding monthly close processes, analyzing financial data, improving systems, and supporting key business decisions. This Controller role requires understanding both the details of the financial operation and how those details influence broader business performance.

What You’ll Do

As our Controller, you will:

• Lead and mentor the accounting team, including payroll operations
• Manage monthly financial close and prepare consolidated financial reports
• Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, and cash flow management
• Prepare financial statements, projections, and analyses
• Implement and maintain accounting systems, controls, and best practices
• Develop project accounting and reporting systems
• Partner with project managers to improve financial performance through reporting, analysis, and financial guidance
• Serve as liaison for audits and ensure compliance
• Prepare and review tax filings and financial reports
• Drive process improvements and operational efficiencies
• Partner with the CFO on financial planning, strategic initiatives, performance reporting, and finance-related business decisions

Compensation

Salary will be based on qualifications and/or experience, with a robust benefits package. Expected starting pay range of $150,000 to $180,000.

HELIX is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and an inclusive work environment. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply regardless of gender, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, disability, age, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service or veteran status. These protections extend to all management practices and decisions, including recruitment and hiring, appraisal systems, promotions, training, and career development programs.

Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Business
• 5+ years of experience as a Controller or similar position
• Proven experience managing professional staff
• Experience in environmental consulting or A/E professional services
• Advanced Excel skills
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational abilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Deltek Vantagepoint software
• CPA license or Master’s degree