Controller (New York)

Controller - Civil Engineering Firm

Location : Hybrid (2-3 days / week onsite) - New York City

Salary : $175,000-$200,000 base + bonus potential

Experience : 10+ years in AEC finance

Credential : CPA preferred

About the Company

Our client is a mission-driven civil engineering firm headquartered in New York City, dedicated to advancing sustainability and resiliency through infrastructure and environmental design. Their work spans climate-adaptive projects, green infrastructure, and long-term community resilience-engineering solutions that serve both people and planet.

This is an opportunity to join a values-led organization where financial leadership directly supports meaningful impact.

Position Overview

The firm is seeking an experienced Controller to lead its finance function with strategic insight and operational excellence. This role will serve as a key partner to executive leadership, ensuring financial integrity while enabling growth across a portfolio of purpose-driven projects.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee all accounting operations, including general ledger, AP / AR, payroll, and financial reporting

Lead budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management

Ensure compliance with GAAP and regulatory standards

Manage audits (internal and external) and maintain strong relationships with auditors and external advisors

Implement scalable systems and processes to support growth

Collaborate with project managers and senior leadership on financial strategy

Mentor and develop junior finance staff

Candidate Profile

Minimum 10 years of progressive finance experience in the AEC industry or consulting for AEC clients

CPA designation preferred

Proven audit experience, including oversight of external audits and internal controls

Strong command of project-based accounting and WIP

Deep expertise with ERP systems, especially Deltek (Vision, Vantagepoint, or similar), with ability to optimize usage across the organization

Proven leadership and communication skills

Alignment with the firm's mission around sustainability and resiliency

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive base salary ($175K-$200K) + performance-based bonus

Hybrid work model with flexibility

Comprehensive health benefits

401(k) with employer match

Generous PTO and paid holidays

Collaborative, purpose-driven culture