Regional Controller

RailWorks; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 170,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

401(k) match

Performance incentives

Job summary

RailWorks is seeking a Regional Controller – East to oversee the regional finance team for the Track and Transit Construction group, ensuring GAAP compliance and strong internal controls. The role requires hands‑on involvement in the full project lifecycle from bidding to completion.

The position manages staff, coordinates monthly/annual reporting, and collaborates with auditors while guiding budgeting and policy improvements. Strong Excel and cross‑border experience are valued.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance or Accounting required or CPA preferred.
• 7+ years senior‑level finance or accounting experience required.
• North American cross border experience preferred.
• Knowledge of finance, accounting, budgeting and cost control principles.
• Knowledge of automated financial and accounting reporting systems.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local financial regulations.
• Experience with percentage‑of‑completion accounting for construction contracts preferred.
• General HR practices knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Subject matter expert for site accounting and related issues.
• Prepare/oversee monthly, quarterly, annual accounting information including variance reports, budgets and forecasts.
• Maintain internal controls in compliance with GAAP and Sarbanes‑Oxley; recommend corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with reporting requirements; prepare reports to agencies.
• Coordinate with internal/external auditors.
• Manage month‑end close process.
• Lead site implementation of accounting initiatives.
• Lead regional budget preparation for the Eastern Region.
• Evaluate and modify accounting policies and procedures.
• Manage regional interview process.
• Conduct annual staff evaluations and train staff.
• Prepare ad hoc reports and support special projects.

Skills

Financial analysis

Budgeting

GAAP knowledge

Excel skills

Staff management

Communication skills

HR compliance

Cross-border experience

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance or Accounting

CPA preferred

Tools

Financial reporting software

MS Excel advanced

Job description

Job ID: 20133

Benefits Offering

RailWorks is committed to helping our employees live better lives. We offer comprehensive benefits packages to eligible employees, including competitive pay, medical, dental and vision coverage, 401(k) with company match, and additional performance incentives.

Compensation

$170000 - $190000 / year

Position Summary

Note: Final hybrid schedule splits are determined at the discretion of management based on regional operational needs.

Houston, TX or Deer Park, TX: This role follows a hybrid schedule requiring a regular, designated presence in the local office, combined with partial remote work flexibility and up to 25% travel.

Chicago, IL: This role follows a hybrid schedule requiring a regular presence in the local office, combined with remote work flexibility and up to 30% travel.

• The Regional Controller – East acts as the financial liaison between the corporate accounting department and field operations for the Track and Transit Construction group to ensure compliance with accounting, payroll and personnel policies, procedures, requirements, and guidelines.
• Manages the staff and processes for the regional finance team, directly overseeing division Controllers, and their support staff.
• Manages financial and accounting functions for the region, ensures that accounting procedures conform to generally accepted accounting principles, and that internal policies and controls are followed. A major function of this position is hands‑on involvement in the full cycle of new projects, from the bidding stage to project completion.

Primary/Essential Responsibilities and Duties

• Acts as subject matter expert for site accounting and accounting‑related issues.
• Prepares and\or oversees the timely and accurate preparation of monthly, quarterly, annual, and periodic accounting and financial information including variance reports, budgets, financial statements, and forecasts.
• Ensures integrity of financial records by maintaining a strong internal control environment in compliance with Company policies, GAAP and Sarbanes‑Oxley; provides feedback of any corrective action required.
• Ensures compliance with local, state, and federal reporting requirements; prepares and\or oversees preparation of reports to government and regulatory agencies.
• Prepares analyses for and acts as liaison with internal and external auditors.
• Manages month‑end close process.
• Manages site implementation of corporate accounting‑related initiatives.
• Leads the preparation of the annual operating budge for the Eastern Region.
• Evaluates and recommends changes to accounting and accounting‑related policies, procedures, practices, and methods.
• Leads the regional interview process.
• Performs annual staff performance evaluations.
• Trains and supports staff in a variety of areas, including policies and procedures, payroll activities, AP, AR, job costs and HR.
• Prepares ad hoc reports and works on special projects as requested.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Finance or Accounting, CPA a plus
• A minimum of 7 years senior‑level finance or accounting experience
• North American cross border experience preferred
• Knowledge of finance, accounting, budgeting, and cost control principles
• Knowledge of automated financial and accounting reporting systems
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local financial regulations
• Working knowledge of percentage‑of‑completion accounting for construction contracts preferred
• General knowledge of HR practices and laws
• Ability to analyze financial data and prepare financial reports, statements, and projections
• Working knowledge of short- and long‑term budgeting and forecasting
• Ability to perform with a high level of discretion, professionalism, and integrity
• Ability to effectively train and manage staff
• Ability to manage multiple projects within tight timeframes
• Strong interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work remotely with managers and staff in various locations
• Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office suite with advanced Excel skills

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Works in different environments ranging from office to job trailer.
• Frequently sits for long periods of time.
• Frequently speaks, reads, writes, and uses a computer keyboard.
• May require occasional standing, walking, lifting, stooping, or bending.
• Houston, TX or Deer Park, TX (Preferred Location): This role follows a hybrid schedule requiring a regular, designated presence in the local office, combined with partial remote work flexibility and up to 25% travel.
• Chicago, IL (Alternate Location): This role follows a hybrid schedule requiring a regular presence in the local office, combined with remote work flexibility and up to 30% travel.
• Note: Final hybrid schedule splits are determined at the discretion of management based on regional operational needs.

Company Overview

This job description is not intended to represent a complete, comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities that may be required in this position. There may be unplanned activities and other duties as assigned.

RailWorks is North America's leading rail maintenance and infrastructure solutions provider. With over 100 years of experience, our geographic footprint enables us to quickly serve our customers and provides ample opportunities for our employees to grow their careers within the company. We take on challenging projects every day and our success relies on a collaborative, safe, and open‑minded work environment that encourages teamwork, positivity, and ingenuity. We are committed to creating a culture of trust, respect, and acceptance.

RailWorks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment with RailWorks without regard to an individual's sex, race, religion, creed, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, disability, veteran status or other legally protected characteristics.