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Controller Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Controller

Scotts Valley, CA ยท On-site

$230K - $270K/yr

Controller (Hands-On Build Role | Hardware / Manufacturing) Location: Scotts Valley, CA (Onsite 4-5 days/week) Relocation support provided Salary: $230,000 - $270,000 base + meaningful equity We are ...

Controller

Lynwood, CA ยท On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

The Controller plays a critical leadership role in overseeing the financial operations and reporting of the organization to ensure accuracy, compliance, and strategic financial management. This ...

Controller

Fresno, CA

$135K - $165K/yr

Controller Role Overview: We are seeking an experienced Controller to oversee financial operations and ensure accurate reporting. The ideal candidate will have experience leading accounting functions ...

Controller

Visalia, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

Controller Salary: $120,000-$135,000 Why This Opportunity Stands Out: โ€ข Join a mission-driven nonprofit with over 80 years of community impact and stability โ€ข Exceptional work/life balance in a ...

Controller

Visalia, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

Controller Salary: $120,000-$135,000 Why This Opportunity Stands Out: โ€ข Join a mission-driven nonprofit with over 80 years of community impact and stability โ€ข Exceptional work/life balance in a ...

Controller

El Segundo, CA

$160K - $200K/yr

GHJ Search & Staffing is partnering with a growing $200M general contractor in the South Bay that's looking to bring on a Controller to report directly to the CFO. This is a high-impact, hands-on ...

Controller

Acton, CA ยท Hybrid

Controller (Hybrid) Our client is seeking a Controller to join their dynamic team. This is an exciting opportunity for a financial and accounting leader who thrives in wanting to make a significant ...

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Controller

Temecula, CA

$125K - $140K/yr

Controller Temecula, CA Full Time, On Site Compensation: $120,000 to $140,000 annually, depending on experience Bonus: Performance based bonus tied to KPI achievement About the Opportunity A growing ...

Controller -- Mid-City, Los Angeles, CA We are working with a well-established nonprofit in the Mid-City area on a Controller search . This role reports directly to the CFO, oversees a team across ...

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Controller

Glendora, CA ยท On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Controller Well-established, high-volume law firm with more than 1,000 active cases at any given time, seeking an experienced, strategic-minded Controller to lead our financial operations and systems ...

Controller

Santa Barbara, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

RRM Design Group is seeking an experienced Controller to help guide our financial operations, lead the accounting team, and support long-term, sustainable growth. Reporting directly to the Chief ...

Controller

Benicia, CA

$125K - $175K/yr

We seek an experienced controller to oversee our accounting staff of five. The ideal candidate will have significant Accounting and Costing experience in the manufacturing industry. You will be ...

Controller

Benicia, CA ยท On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

We seek an experienced controller to oversee our accounting staff of five. The ideal candidate will have significant Accounting and Costing experience in the manufacturing industry. You will be ...

Controller

Cerritos, CA ยท On-site

The Controller will be responsible for the accuracy of all financial functions, including cost accounting, cycle management, reporting, risk analysis, internal controls, etc. You will demonstrate ...

The Controller is responsible for overseeing all accounting operations, financial reporting, internal controls, and compliance for bakery bling. This role ensures the accuracy of financial results ...

Controller

Fullerton, CA ยท On-site

$165K - $185K/yr

Controller Compensation: $165,000 - $185,000 + Discretionary Bonus Location: Fullerton, CA 92831 (Onsite) Email your word document resume to Hayley.h@conexusrecruiting.com and reference the subject ...

Controller

Madera, CA

$105K - $125K/yr

Controller - Agriculture (Farming + Processing) | Central CA We're hiring a Controller for a large-scale, vertically integrated agricultural company operating thousands of acres across nuts, fruit ...

Controller

Selma, CA

$130K - $165K/yr

Controller Role Overview: We are seeking an experienced Controller to oversee the financial operations of our client's organization. The ideal candidate will manage accounting functions, ensure ...

Controller

Carlsbad, CA ยท On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Controller Background: Grand Cru Liquid Assets is expanding again after 40% growth last year -- and we're on track for another 20% this year. To support that growth, we're hiring a Controller to lead ...

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Controller information

See California salary details

$54.3K

$117.9K

$173.2K

How much do controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for controller in California is $117,932.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,700.00 and $136,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Controller do?

A Controller is a senior-level finance professional responsible for overseeing an organization's accounting operations. Their duties typically include managing financial reporting, budgeting, internal controls, and compliance with regulations. Controllers also supervise the accounting department, prepare financial statements, and work closely with executive management to guide financial strategy. Their work ensures accurate financial records and supports sound business decisions.

What Is a Controller Job Description?

A controller is high-level accounting position in a firm or company. They often report directly to the CFO (Chief Financial Officer) and are responsible for budgets, audits, and financial reports, as well as ensuring the company complies with all tax codes and regulations.

What are some common challenges Controllers face when managing financial reporting and compliance?

Controllers often encounter challenges in ensuring the accuracy and timeliness of financial reports, particularly when juggling complex transactions or multiple entities. Staying current with evolving accounting standards and regulatory requirements can also be demanding, as it requires continual learning and adaptation. Additionally, Controllers must coordinate closely with cross-functional teams, such as auditors and department heads, to address discrepancies and streamline processes, making strong communication and problem-solving skills essential.

What is the difference between Controller vs Bookkeeper?

AspectControllerBookkeeper
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field; CPA or CMA certifications are commonUsually requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certifications are less common
Work EnvironmentWorks in corporate finance departments, overseeing accounting teamsWorks in small businesses or accounting firms, handling day-to-day transaction recording
ResponsibilitiesFinancial reporting, budgeting, internal controls, and strategic financial planningRecording financial transactions, maintaining ledgers, and reconciling accounts

The Controller and Bookkeeper roles differ mainly in scope and seniority. Controllers oversee financial strategies and reporting, requiring advanced credentials and experience. Bookkeepers focus on recording daily transactions and maintaining accurate records. While both are essential for financial management, Controllers have broader responsibilities and higher qualifications, often managing teams and ensuring compliance.

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 principles, financial analysis, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance and often a CPA certification. Proficiency with ERP systems, advanced Excel, and financial reporting software is essential for managing complex financial data. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set top Controllers apart. These skills and qualities ensure accurate financial oversight, compliance, and strategic decision-making for organizational success.
What are the most commonly searched types of Controller jobs in California? The most popular types of Controller jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Controller jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Controller jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Controller jobs? Cities in California with the most Controller job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Controller jobs in CA? For Controller jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Controller job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $117,932 per year, or $56.7 per hour.

Controller

The Network 101

Scotts Valley, CA โ€ข On-site

$230K - $270K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Controller (Hands-On Build Role | Hardware / Manufacturing)
Location: Scotts Valley, CA (Onsite 4-5 days/week)
Relocation support provided
Salary: $230,000 - $270,000 base + meaningful equity
We are a Series B, venture-backed hardware technology company building next-generation power electronics to modernize critical grid infrastructure. Our mission is to replace legacy transformer systems with highly efficient, scalable, domestically produced technology.
We are entering a major inflection point-transitioning from R&D into commercial manufacturing-and are hiring our first dedicated Controller to build the accounting function from the ground up.
This is a rare opportunity to join at the ground floor of a company with significant customer demand, deep technical leadership, and the backing of experienced operators from world-class engineering organizations.
What You'll Do
You will act as both a hands-on operator and a builder of scalable finance infrastructure:
  • Lead selection and implementation of a new ERP system (transitioning off QuickBooks)
  • Build inventory and cost accounting systems to support manufacturing and product COGS
  • Establish and own the month-end close process, including reconciliations and journal entries
  • Bring outsourced accounting functions in-house and prepare the company for its first audit
  • Ensure full U.S. GAAP compliance as the company scales into production
  • Hire, manage, and develop a junior accountant (already approved)
  • Partner closely with engineering, operations, and leadership as products move toward production
What We're Looking For
  • CPA required
  • 7-12 years of progressive accounting experience
  • Strong background in manufacturing, hardware, or inventory-heavy environments
  • Prior experience with ERP implementation or system selection
  • Deep knowledge of cost accounting, inventory accounting, and U.S. GAAP
  • Comfortable as a senior individual contributor who is still hands-on today, with a path to building and leading a larger finance team
  • Must be onsite in Scotts Valley (relocation support available)
Why This Role
  • First dedicated Controller in a rapidly scaling hardware company
  • Direct impact on building the financial foundation of a future manufacturing business
  • Work alongside leadership with deep experience scaling complex engineering organizations
  • Significant ownership across systems, processes, and team build-out
  • Strong equity upside in a company solving a critical infrastructure problem
Ideal Background
Candidates often come from:
  • High-growth hardware or manufacturing companies
  • Aerospace, EV, robotics, semiconductor, or industrial tech environments
  • Controller / Assistant Controller / Senior Finance Manager roles with ERP + cost accounting exposure
Interview Process
  1. Hiring Manager Interview (technical + cultural fit)
  2. Take-home technical case study (3-5 hours)
  3. On-site panel interview (Scotts Valley office)
  4. Final interview with executive leadership team