Interim Controller

Vaco Recruiter Services; Tempe (AZ); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Vaco Recruiter Services is seeking an experienced Interim Controller to lead the accounting and financial operations of a growing, project-driven organization in Tempe, AZ. This hands-on role combines tactical finance management with strategic process improvements to strengthen controls and reporting for executive leadership.

The ideal candidate will capably manage month-end close, budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow planning while driving improvements in job costing and profitability

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience with leadership responsibilities.
• Experience with project-based accounting and revenue recognition preferred.
• Hands-on NetSuite experience required.
• Advanced Excel skills and strong analytical capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead month-end and year-end close processes.
• Prepare and review financial statements, reconciliations, and schedules.
• Oversee general ledger activity and reporting accuracy.
• Manage budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow planning.
• Analyze project profitability, job costing, and metrics.
• Ensure GAAP compliance and internal controls.
• Coordinate with external auditors and tax advisors.
• Oversee AP, AR, payroll, and related functions.
• Develop and improve accounting processes and reporting.
• Partner with leadership to support business decisions.
• Supervise and mentor accounting staff.

Skills

Leadership

GAAP knowledge

Analytical thinking

Communication

Strategic thinking

Project accounting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance

Tools

NetSuite

Advanced Excel

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Interim Controller to lead the accounting and financial operations of a growing, project-driven organization. This is a hands-on leadership role for an accounting professional who can quickly assess existing processes, strengthen controls, improve reporting, and provide strategic financial support to executive leadership.The ideal candidate is comfortable operating at both the tactical and strategic levels, managing day-to-day accounting operations while helping drive process improvements and operational efficiency across the business.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the month-end and year-end close process
• Prepare and review financial statements, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules
• Oversee general ledger activity and ensure accuracy of financial reporting
• Manage budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow planning
• Analyze project profitability, job costing, and operational performance metrics
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, company policies, and internal controls
• Coordinate with external auditors, tax advisors, and other business partners
• Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and related accounting functions
• Develop and improve accounting processes, procedures, and reporting capabilities
• Partner with leadership to provide financial analysis and support key business decisions
• Supervise and mentor accounting staff while promoting accountability and continuous improvement

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience with leadership responsibilities
• Prior Controller, Assistant Controller, Accounting Manager, or Senior Accounting leadership experience
• Strong understanding of financial reporting, general ledger accounting, and internal controls
• Experience with project-based accounting, job costing, work-in-process reporting, and revenue recognition preferred
• Hands-on NetSuite experience required
• Advanced Excel skills and strong analytical capabilities
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment

Preferred Background

• Construction, contracting, engineering, manufacturing, or other project-based industry experience
• Experience leading process improvement initiatives
• Strong operational mindset with the ability to translate financial information into actionable business insights
• Experience managing small to mid-sized accounting teams

What We're Looking For

• A leader who takes ownership and delivers results
• Someone who can establish structure while remaining hands-on in the details
• A problem-solver who enjoys improving processes and driving efficiencies
• A trusted business partner with strong integrity, sound judgment, and excellent communication skills
• An accounting professional who can step in quickly and make an immediate impact

This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned accounting leader seeking a high-impact interim role with significant visibility and the ability to influence the direction of the finance function.