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Controller Average Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Senior Project Controller

Columbia, MD · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

At GEA, we're not just building equipment, we're building lasting careers with an average employee ... Senior Project Controller ​Establish constructive close working relationships with the NPE ...

New

Senior Project Controller

Columbia, MD · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

At GEA, we're not just building equipment, we're building lasting careers with an average employee ... Senior Project Controller Establish constructive close working relationships with the NPE ...

We work with the CFO, CAO, controller, and treasurer to develop an efficient, high quality, data ... Ability to travel 5-25%, on average, based on the work you do and the clients and industries ...

Work you'll do As an SAP Treasury Senior Consultant on the Controllership and Treasury ... Ability to travel 40%, on average, based on the work you do and the clients and industries/sectors ...

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Showing results 1-20

Controller Average information

See Washington salary details

$62.3K

$135.3K

$198.8K

How much do controller average jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for controller average in Washington is $135,342.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,900.00 and $156,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a controller?

A Controller is a senior-level finance professional responsible for overseeing the accounting operations of an organization. Their main duties include managing financial reports, maintaining accurate financial records, ensuring compliance with regulations, and supervising accounting staff. Controllers often work closely with executive leadership to support budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning. They play a key role in safeguarding the financial health of a company and may also be involved in audits and internal controls.

What are some common challenges faced by controllers in managing financial operations across multiple departments?

Controllers often face the challenge of ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting while coordinating with various departments, each with their own processes and priorities. Balancing compliance with regulatory requirements and internal controls across these divisions can be complex, especially in larger organizations. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and the ability to implement standardized procedures are key to overcoming these challenges and maintaining financial integrity.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controller, you need a strong background in accounting, financial analysis, and regulatory compliance, usually supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in accounting or finance and a CPA certification. Proficiency with ERP systems like SAP or Oracle, advanced Excel skills, and experience with financial reporting software are vital. Leadership, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help Controllers manage teams and collaborate across departments. These competencies ensure accurate financial oversight, regulatory adherence, and sound decision-making for organizational success.

What is the difference between Controller Average vs Bookkeeper?

AspectController AverageBookkeeper
CredentialsCPA or CMA often preferredHigh school diploma or associate degree, bookkeeping certification
Work EnvironmentCorporate finance departments, large organizationsSmall businesses, accounting firms, or in-house accounting teams
ResponsibilitiesFinancial reporting, budgeting, internal controlsRecording transactions, maintaining ledgers, reconciling accounts
Industry UsageWidely used in corporate finance and accountingCommon in small to medium-sized businesses

The Controller Average typically holds advanced credentials and manages comprehensive financial functions in larger organizations. In contrast, Bookkeepers focus on recording and maintaining financial records, often in smaller settings. While both roles are essential for financial management, the Controller has broader responsibilities and higher qualifications.

Are controller jobs in demand?

Controller jobs are in demand in many industries, especially in finance, manufacturing, and large organizations, due to the need for financial oversight and compliance. The role typically requires strong accounting skills, certifications like CPA or CMA, and proficiency with financial software. Employment prospects are generally favorable for qualified candidates with experience in financial management and reporting.

Are controllers in demand?

Controllers are in demand in many industries such as finance, manufacturing, and healthcare, especially as organizations seek professionals with strong accounting, financial analysis, and management skills. The role often requires certifications like CPA or CMA and proficiency with accounting software, making experienced controllers valuable for financial oversight and compliance.

Is a controller a high level position?

A controller is a senior management role responsible for overseeing accounting and financial reporting within an organization. It is considered a high-level position that typically requires extensive experience, accounting certifications such as CPA, and strong leadership skills. Controllers often report directly to the CFO and play a key role in strategic financial planning.

Is being a controller a good career?

A controller is a senior financial role responsible for overseeing accounting operations, financial reporting, and internal controls. It typically requires strong analytical skills, accounting certifications such as CPA, and experience with financial software. The position offers opportunities for advancement and stability in finance departments but can involve long hours and high responsibility.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Controller Average jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Controller Average job openings:

Senior Project Controller

GEA

Columbia, MD • On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

GEA Group, founded in Germany in 1881, is a global leader in engineering solutions, serving industries such as food and beverage, pharma, dairy, and more. With over 18,000 employees worldwide and a strong U.S. presence since 1929, GEA combines the heritage of a well-established company with the innovation of a forward-thinking industry leader. At GEA, we’re not just building equipment, we’re building lasting careers with an average employee tenure range from 5 to over 11+ years, reflecting the strong culture, growth opportunities, and support we provide.

Responsibilities / Tasks

Working at GEA Group has significant benefits:

  • Start strong – Medical, dental, and vision coverage begins on your first day
  • Recharge and refresh – Enjoy 12 paid holidays, including a flexible floating holiday, and 136 hours of PTO to relax or explore
  •  Invest in your future – A 7% 401(k) employer match helps grow your retirement savings faster
  •  Keep learning – Take advantage of tuition reimbursement to further your education or skillset
  •  Live well – Our wellness incentive program rewards healthy habits
  •  Get support when you need it – Access to a confidential Employee Assistance Program for personal or professional guidance
  •  Save smart – Flexible Health Savings and Spending Accounts to manage out-of-pocket expenses

The typical base pay range for this position at the start of employment is expected to be between $105,000 - $125,000 per year.  GEA Group has different base pay ranges for different work locations within the United States.

The pay range is not a guarantee of compensation or salary.  The estimated range is the budgeted amount for the position. Final offers are based on various factors, including skill set, experience, location, qualifications, and other job-related reasons.  You may be eligible for additional rewards, such as discretionary bonus (based on eligibility) and/or equity awards.

Senior Project Controller

​Establish constructive close working relationships with the NPE (Nutrition Plant Engineering) NAM Leaders and Key Business Partners. 

Ownership of key project activities:

  •  Project Reviews according to global project controlling guidance (risk and frequency) and proactively communicate status and results of reviews.
  • Tracking of risk and opportunity register throughout the life of the project
  • Accuracy of project work breakdown structure
  • Analysis of project financial performance compared to baseline

Collaborate with Project Managers to:

  • Ensure comprehensive project budgets (including change orders), cost recognition and estimates for completion are updated and accurate within the local ERP and other applicable systems.
  • Maintain the accuracy of reported project financials including gross margin, billing plan, overdue receivables, cost to complete, cost overruns, percentage of completion, risks and contingencies, change orders and accruals
  • Evaluate project cash flow versus planned cash flow model within contract and escalate significant deviations for resolution.
  • Capture, summarize and report quarterly revenue forecast, cash flow forecast, project risks and related mitigation plans.
  • Communicate key risk areas or projects requiring increased focus to Business Line and Finance Leadership.
  • Coordinate with intercompany partners to ensure timely documentation and accounting for percentage of completion on project-related intercompany purchases.
  • Partner with other Project Analysts within the legal entity to complete all required closing tasks and analysis to deliver month end financials, project summaries and a rolling quarterly estimate based on existing backlog.
  • Liaison with Shared Services team to facilitate transactional processing, timely vendor invoice processing, customer billing, collections and accurate financial records
  • Drive continuous improvement through automation, data modeling, and enhanced reporting to improve visibility and decision-making speed
  • Coordinate with Accounting team to ensure timely and accurate monthly close and financial ledger
  • Provide finance expertise to assist others in better understanding financial information to drive better business results

Your Profile / Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance (strongly preferred but not required), demonstrating a working knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles and financial analysis principles (IFRS knowledge a significant plus)
  • 5+ years of progressive responsibility in any of the following functions: finance, accounting or audit.
  • Minimum of 2 years of financial planning and analysis responsibility, demonstrating the ability to execute complex analysis, prepare comprehensive, clear, concise and action-oriented reporting.
  • Strong leadership skills, ability to influence Senior Management Resilient in a fast-paced, changing environment.
  • Strong working knowledge of ERP/Financial Systems and Application
  • Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office, including advanced Excel skills required
  • Access or other multi-dimensional analysis experience (ability to build a relational database and queries is strongly preferred)
  • Experience with reporting tools such as Cognos, Tableau, BW (CBI) or PowerBI (preferred) Microsoft Dynamics or SAP (preferred)
  • Strong data analysis experience, demonstrating the ability to understand business needs, obtain and validate data, build queries to address targeted analysis, interpret results, root cause anomalies and generate meaningful results
  • Percentage of Completion Accounting Experience (strongly preferred)
  • Manufacturing/Costing experience a plus
  • Knowledge of Finance or accounting professional certification, is a plus
  • Solid time/project management skills and demonstrated ability to balance multiple tasks
  • Effective written communication skills, demonstrated technical writing skills through development of training materials, example worksheets for costing and other relevant templates to convey new system functionality to key stakeholders
  • Ability to “think on your feet” and respond constructively with action-oriented ideas during meetings with Key Stakeholders and Senior Management
  • Desire to consistently learn and take on additional responsibilities
  • Knowledge of finance operational cycles, preferably gained through hands-on experience, a plus.
  • Other duties as assigned.

GEA is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will therefore receive consideration for employment without regard to age, sex, race, color, religion, world view, national origin, genetics, disability, gender identity, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other protected characteristic required by applicable law. Applicants with disabilities are welcome and will be given special consideration if they are equally qualified.

#engineeringforthebetter.

This position is based in the United States and does not offer visa or work sponsorship. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship.

#engineeringforthebetter.

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