Controller

San Luis Obispo County, CA

Job Summary: 

A well-established, growing organization, is seeking a seasoned Controller to oversee its accounting and financial operations. This position will play a critical role in ensuring accurate financial reporting, strong internal controls, and compliance with GAAP and applicable regulations. The Controller will manage a small internal team, spanning accounting, payroll, and administrative finance functions. This role is both strategic and hands-on, requiring deep technical accounting expertise, operational awareness, and the ability to scale processes, while mentoring staff and supporting leadership decision-making. 

Duties / Responsibilities: 

Oversee monthly close process, including preparation and review of GL reconciliations and supporting schedules;

Prepare consolidated financial statements and manage intercompany accounting across multiple entities;

Support preparation and review of indirect tax filings across multiple jurisdictions;

Coordinate with external tax professionals on corporate tax reporting and GAAP-related matters;

Direct project or contract-level financial reporting, including revenue recognition and margin analysis;

Prepare and present monthly work-in-progress (WIP) reports;

Analyze job and contract performance and partner with operations leadership;

Develop and maintain cash-flow forecasts and liquidity analyses;

Oversee insurance-related reporting and workers’ compensation administration;

Ensure accurate payroll tax compliance across multiple states;

Administer company retirement plan and ensure ERISA compliance;

Lead preparation for internal and external audits;

Establish and improve accounting policies and internal controls. 

Leadership & Management: 

Lead accounting, payroll, and related finance functions;

Supervise and develop a team of approximately 4 professionals;

Collaborate cross-functionally with operations, HR, and executive leadership;

Serve as the primary liaison with auditors, tax authorities, and benefit providers;

Drive continuous process improvement and scalability. 

Qualifications: 

Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field;

CPA, MBA, or equivalent experience preferred;

10+ years of progressive accounting experience;

Experience in project-based or multi-entity environments strongly preferred;

Strong knowledge of financial reporting, consolidation, and taxation;

Advanced Excel and ERP system proficiency. 

Compensation:

$145K - $185K annual base salary range depending on experience. 

Benefits: 

Employer-paid medical coverage with optional buy-up plans;

Employer-paid dental, vision, and life insurance;

Pre-tax benefit options;

Profit-sharing eligibility;

401(k) plan with company match;

Paid sick leave, vacation accrual, and paid holidays. 

Location:

CA Central Coast