Controller – Startup Environment

Planet Harvest; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary & benefits

Meaningful work with direct impact

Flexible working conditions

Supportive, mission-driven team environment

Job summary

A profit-for-purpose startup in Chicago is looking for a Controller to manage all accounting operations. This role involves financial reporting oversight, cash flow management, and ensuring compliance with GAAP standards. The ideal candidate should have 5–8+ years of accounting experience, preferably within a startup and expertise in QuickBooks and Excel. The company offers competitive salaries, flexible working conditions, and a supportive environment dedicated to food security.

Qualifications

• 5–8+ years of progressive accounting experience, startup or small-company experience strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of GAAP and financial reporting.
• Experience evaluating and implementing new accounting software preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day accounting operations and month-end close.
• Develop and maintain accounting policies and internal controls.
• Manage cash flow forecasting and budgeting.
• Prepare audit preparation and compliance reporting.

Skills

Accounting operations

Financial reporting

GAAP knowledge

Analytical abilities

QuickBooks Online

Education

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

Tools

Excel

Google Sheets

Job description

Controller – Startup Environment (Hybrid, Chicago, IL)

Reports to: CFO

Salary Range: 120,000k/yr – 135,000k/yr

Type: Full-Time | Hybrid (Chicago, IL)

About Planet Harvest

Planet Harvest is a profit-for-purpose company on a mission to maximize the amount of fresh produce that moves from farms to families. We connect growers, food companies, healthcare organizations, retail partners, and food banks to ensure more of every harvest is used. Our team is made up of problem-solvers, innovators, and advocates committed to expanding access to healthy produce and building a more sustainable food system.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary & benefits
• Meaningful work with direct impact on food security & the produce industry
• Flexible working conditions
• Supportive, mission‑driven team environment

Role Overview

We’re seeking a highly motivated Controller to oversee all accounting operations for our fast-growing startup. This person will work closely with the CFO to strengthen financial reporting, maintain accounting accuracy, and build processes that support organizational growth. The ideal candidate brings hands‑on experience, strong technical accounting skills, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, evolving environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day‑to‑day accounting operations, including GL management, month‑end close, reconciliations, and financial statement preparation
• Develop and maintain accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls
• Manage cash flow forecasting, budgeting, and variance analysis in collaboration with the CFO
• Support audit preparation, tax filings, and compliance reporting
• Prepare financial analyses to support operational and strategic decisions
• Implement and optimize accounting systems and tools for a scaling organization
• Assist with AR/AP support and collaborate cross‑functionally with operations and finance teams

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA preferred)
• 5–8+ years of progressive accounting experience; startup or small‑company experience strongly preferred
• Strong understanding of GAAP and financial reporting
• Proficiency with QuickBooks Online and Excel/Google Sheets
• Experience evaluating and implementing new accounting software (including data migration & system setup) preferred
• Strong analytical abilities and attention to detail
• Self‑starter with flexibility to adapt in a fast‑paced, high‑growth environment

Our Ideal Candidate

• A builder with experience designing and implementing scalable financial processes
• Highly organized, detail‑oriented, and able to balance both strategic and tactical work
• A collaborative partner who communicates clearly and works effectively across teams

Additional Information

• Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
• Employment type: Full‑time
• Job function: Accounting/Auditing and Finance
• Industries: Wholesale Raw Farm Products