Controller, Accounting, Accounting Manager

Controller

Chattanooga, TN

Full-Time

Onsite

Southern Spear Ironworks is seeking an experienced Controller to oversee all aspects of financial management within our growing construction business. This pivotal role combines hands‑on accounting with strategic financial leadership to ensure the company’s continued success. The ideal candidate is not only a skilled financial professional but also understands the unique nuances of construction accounting — from job costing and WIP reporting to contract billing and project‑based revenue recognition.

Financial Management & Reporting

• Oversee daily accounting operations, including A/P, A/R, payroll, general ledger, job costing, and bank reconciliations.
• Prepare accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Lead the month‑end and year‑end close processes.
• Manage budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow to ensure financial stability and performance.

• Implement and manage job cost accounting systems for precise project‑level tracking.
• Prepare and analyze Work‑in‑Progress (WIP) reports and percentage‑of‑completion revenue recognition.
• Ensure compliance with construction contracts, including change orders, retainage, and lien waivers.
• Partner with project managers and estimators to align financial data with project timelines and budgets.

• Develop and maintain internal controls to safeguard company assets.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and all relevant federal and state regulations.
• Coordinate annual external audits and act as the primary point of contact for auditors, banks, and insurance providers.

• Provide financial insights and recommendations to executive leadership to support data‑driven decision‑making.
• Optimize financial systems and processes to support efficiency and scalability.
• Mentor and manage accounting team members, fostering a culture of accountability, accuracy, and continuous improvement.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA or CMA preferred).
• 5+ years of progressive accounting or finance experience, including 2+ years in a Controller role.
• Experience in the construction industry or a project‑based business is required.
• Proficiency with construction accounting software (Sage 300 CRE, Viewpoint, Foundation, or similar).
• Strong understanding of GAAP, job costing, WIP reporting, and percentage‑of‑completion accounting.
• Excellent analytical, leadership, and communication skills.
• Experience leading year‑end CPA audits.

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Must be willing to complete a background check and drug test.
• Onsite position in Chattanooga, TN.

If you’re a detail‑oriented accounting professional who thrives on both precision and strategy — and you’re ready to make an impact in a dynamic construction environment — we’d love to hear from you.

Apply today to join the Southern Spear Ironworks team!

Southern Spear Ironworks is an Equal Opportunity Employer.