Controller – Construction

The Quest Organization; New York (NY); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

The Quest Organization in New York seeks a Controller to lead construction and project accounting operations. You will oversee AP/AR, payroll, general ledger, and cost tracking while partnering with project teams on financial oversight and strategic decision-making.

The role emphasizes accurate WIP reporting, AIA billing, and consolidated financial statements across multiple projects, with a focus on internal controls and compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 5+ years of accounting experience, ideally in construction or project-based environments.
• Strong knowledge of construction accounting, including WIP reporting and AIA billing.
• Experience with Sage or similar accounting software.
• Proficient Microsoft Excel and ability to collaborate with operations teams.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all day-to-day accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger.
• Manage project accounting and cost tracking across multiple construction projects.
• Prepare and review AIA billing (cost-plus and stipulated sum contracts).
• Produce project cost reports and support project managers with financial oversight.
• Monitor work-in-progress (WIP) reporting and project profitability.
• Oversee monthly bank reconciliations and credit card reconciliations.
• Manage intercompany transactions and loans.
• Oversee weekly payroll processing and payroll-related tax reconciliations.
• Ensure compliance with state and local tax requirements.
• Coordinate with external accountants on financial statements, tax filings, and year-end reporting.
• Maintain internal financial controls and support financial planning and operational decision-making.
• Track receivables, post payments, and assist with collections when needed.

Skills

Financial reporting

Cross-functional collaboration

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting

Tools

Sage

Job description

Controller — Construction & Project Accounting

An established construction firm specializing in high-end residential projects is seeking a Controller to oversee the company’s accounting operations and project financial management. This individual will be responsible for maintaining the integrity of financial reporting, managing project accounting processes, and partnering closely with project management and external accounting advisors. The Controller will play a key role in overseeing billing, project cost tracking, financial reporting, and internal accounting functions across multiple projects.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee all day-to-day accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and general ledger
• Manage project accounting and cost tracking across multiple construction projects
• Prepare and review AIA billing (cost-plus and stipulated sum contracts)
• Produce project cost reports and support project managers with financial oversight
• Monitor work-in-progress (WIP) reporting and project profitability
• Oversee monthly bank reconciliations and credit card reconciliations
• Manage intercompany transactions and loans
• Oversee weekly payroll processing and payroll-related tax reconciliations
• Ensure compliance with state and local tax requirements
• Coordinate with external accountants on financial statements, tax filings, and year-end reporting
• Maintain internal financial controls and support financial planning and operational decision-making
• Track receivables, post payments, and assist with collections when needed

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred
• 5 years of accounting experience, ideally within construction or project-based environments
• Strong knowledge of construction accounting principles, including WIP reporting and AIA billing
• Experience with Sage or similar accounting software
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel
• Strong understanding of state and local tax considerations
• Ability to work closely with operations and project management teams