Controller, Finance & Banking, Accounting Manager

About the Job

Grassi's client is seeking an experienced Construction & Real Estate Controller to join their growing team!

Title: Controller.

Location: Elizabeth NJ onsite 5x a week.

Company: Confidential.

About Grassi's client:

They are a long-established trade contractor serving the New York and tri-state area. In addition there are real estate rental and real estate development holdings.

Position Overview:

Grassi's client is seeking an experienced Controller to lead and oversee all financial operations for their organization. This role is ideal for a hands-on accounting leader with strong experience in the construction and/or real estate industries, including job costing, WIP schedules, contract accounting, and managing cash flow in a project-based environment.

The Controller will report to the CFO and manage the accounting team, enhance internal financial processes, and work closely with ownership and operations leadership.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Management & Reporting:

• Oversee all accounting functions, including AP, AR, payroll, job costing, and general ledger management.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements.
• Manage WIP schedules, job cost reports, and budget-to-actual analysis.
• Conduct cash flow forecasting and management.
• Manage banking relationships, daily banking activity and complete bank reconciliations.
• Prepare and oversee month end close procedures.

Project & Construction Accounting:

• Ensure accurate financial tracking, including contract billing, change orders, retention, and lien releases.
• Collaborate with project managers to validate job costs and budget projections.
• Maintain compliance with industry standards (AIA billing, certified payroll, etc.).

Internal Controls & Process Improvement:

• Strengthen internal controls and ensure proper documentation and compliance.
• Streamline accounting procedures and introduce best-practice workflows.
• Oversee year-end audit and liaise with external accountants.

Leadership & Team Management:

• Supervise, mentor, and develop accounting staff including AR Manager, AP Manager, Assistant Controller and HR/Payroll Manager.
• Support executive leadership with financial insights and strategic recommendations.
• Lead technology or system upgrades within the finance function.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA preferred.
• 7-10+ years of accounting experience, with required industry experience in construction, real estate development, or related project-based sectors.
• Strong understanding of job costing, WIP, AIA billing, and construction financial reporting.
• Experience with ERP or construction accounting software (e.g., Viewpoint, Sage 300, Procore Financials, Foundation, CMiC).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and analytical skills.
• Ability to thrive in a deadline-driven, hands-on environment.