Controller

Controller

StaffBuffalo is working with a long-standing, multi-generational commercial construction and roofing organization to hire a Controller. With deep roots in the community and a strong presence across both public and private sector projects, this company has built a reputation for quality, stability, and long-term relationships. As the organization continues to grow, particularly within its expanding service division, they are seeking a hands-on financial leader to bring structure, visibility, and proactive support to the business.

This Controller will report directly to ownership and serve as a key member of the leadership team. The role is highly visible and critical to the day-to-day success of the organization, especially as leadership has taken on additional responsibilities following recent transitions. The ideal candidate will bring strong construction accounting experience, a proactive mindset, and the ability to step into an environment that needs both stability and forward momentum.

This is an opportunity for someone who enjoys being embedded in the business, partnering with operations, and taking ownership of financial processes while helping guide a small but important accounting team.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee all day-to-day accounting operations, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, and general ledger activity
• Lead the monthly and weekly financial reporting process, including preparation and analysis of WIP schedules, job costing, and project profitability
• Manage and improve construction-specific accounting processes, ensuring accurate tracking of contracts, billing, and project financials
• Supervise, mentor, and develop accounting staff, including a Senior Accountant, while driving accountability and improved performance
• Partner closely with ownership and leadership to provide financial insights, support decision-making, and improve overall business visibility
• Ensure accurate and timely payroll processing, including exposure to union payroll, compliance, and reporting requirements
• Oversee workers' compensation, insurance, and other risk-related financial components tied to construction operations
• Manage compliance requirements, including customer setups, contract-related documentation, and reporting across public and private projects
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning efforts, aligning financial strategy with company growth goals
• Monitor cash flow, manage payments, and ensure overall financial health of the organization
• Take ownership of system utilization and improvements (currently Sage), with openness to evaluating and implementing better tools if needed
• Participate in leadership and management meetings, providing clear financial updates and recommendations
• Assist with light HR-related administrative items and occasional operational support needs
• Provide cross-functional support where needed, including light IT coordination and vendor communication
• Identify inefficiencies, gaps, or risks within current processes and proactively implement solutions

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required
• CPA preferred
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, with strong preference for construction or project-based industry experience
• Deep understanding of job costing, WIP reporting, percentage-of-completion accounting, and project financials
• Experience working in environments with union payroll or similar complexity preferred
• Prior experience supervising or mentoring accounting staff
• Strong systems experience, ideally within Sage or similar construction accounting platforms
• High level of ownership, accountability, and ability to operate independently
• Proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with the ability to "figure things out" and drive initiatives forward
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with both financial and non-financial stakeholders
• Comfortable working in a hands-on environment where priorities may shift and leadership support is critical

Benefits:

• Competitive salary range of $130,000$150,000, based on experience
• Annual bonus potential
• 401(k) with strong employer contribution
• Comprehensive healthcare coverage, including family coverage
• Generous PTO
• Stable, long-standing organization with deep community roots
• High-visibility leadership role with direct access to ownership
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact during a critical growth and transition period