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Controller Jobs in La Crosse, WI (NOW HIRING)

Plant Controller

Winona, MN

$103K - $128K/yr

Qualifications Plant Controller or Accounting Manager Cost System Manufacturing Must have worked in the Automotive field: Visa Requirements: U.S. Citizens / Green Card Holder Additional Information ...

Automationstekniker

Galesville, WI · On-site

$51K - $56K/yr

Ar du en drivenoch losningsorienterad Automationstekniker som vill arbeta med modern teknik ien dynamisk miljo? Vi soker dig som vill vara med och utveckla, forbattra ochsakerstalla driften av vara ...

Research Assistant

West Salem, WI

$18.75 - $26/hr

This role bridges the gap between hands-on fieldwork, agronomic data collection, and controlled greenhouse environments. You will play a crucial role in the execution of our research trials, gaining ...

Research Assistant

West Salem, WI · On-site

$18.75 - $26/hr

This role bridges the gap between hands-on fieldwork, agronomic data collection, and controlled greenhouse environments. You will play a crucial role in the execution of our research trials, gaining ...

Come work for a nationally recognized organization that provides a temperature controlled plant with no overtime on the weekends! Apply with us to hear more! Pay: ?$18.00/hr Shift: Full-time hours ...

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Showing results 1-20

Controller information

See La Crosse, WI salary details

$54K

$117.3K

$172.3K

How much do controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for controller in La Crosse, WI is $117,312.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,200.00 and $136,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a controller?

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 cities near La Crosse, WI are hiring for Controller jobs? Cities near La Crosse, WI with the most Controller job openings:
Infographic showing various Controller job openings in La Crosse, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $117,312 per year, or $56.4 per hour.

CAAS Controller (Retail/Restaurant Franchise)

Cliftonlarsonallen

La Crosse, WI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago


CliftonLarsonAllen rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 22 rated bookkeepers and accountants


Job description

CLA is a top 10 national professional services firm where our purpose is to create opportunities every day, for our clients, our people, and our communities through industry-focused wealth advisory, digital, audit, tax, consulting, and outsourcing services. Even with more than 8,500 people, 130 U.S. locations, and a global reach, we promise to know you and help you.

CLA is dedicated to building a culture that invites different beliefs and perspectives to the table, so we can truly know and help our clients, communities, and each other.

About the role:

CLA is looking to hire a Controller with Retail industry experience, to join our Client Accounting and Advisory Services (CAAS) practice in Wisconsin. Our CAAS team helps our clients transform their business with a collaborative approach that allows them to seamlessly mitigate risk, overcome challenges, meet deadlines, and identify personnel to help them with their workforce needs.

As a Controller, you will:

  • Act as the Controller for the designated clients you service

  • Take on the role of consultant and advisor to your clients on best practices for accounting and finance-related engagements

  • Mentor the staff and seniors within your team and assist in designing customized back-office solutions for clients

  • Prepare and analyze client financial statements and make recommendations

  • Prepare management reporting packages to assist management teams and Boards with understanding their financial results

  • Become an industry professional and attend industry-leading events and trainings

  • Maintain knowledge of the client's organizational policies and procedures, federal and state policies and directives, and current accounting standards

Qualifications:

  • Education:Bachelors degree in Accounting or related field required. Combination of related experience, education, and training may be accepted in lieu of degree.

  • Experience: 7 years relevant work experience as a Controller or equivalent is required.

  • Public accounting experience preferred but not required.

  • Relevant work experience involving restaurant franchises is HIGHLY preferred!

  • Aptitude for developing and maintaining a thorough working knowledge of accounting software and systems.

  • Travel: This position requires working primarily in-office, with frequent local travel to/from client sites and may require occasional non-local or overnight travel for client visits, training, meetings and/or other business-related purposes

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Wellness at CLA

To support our CLA family members, we focus on their physical, financial, social, and emotional well-being and offer comprehensive benefit options that include health, dental, vision, 401k and much more.


To view a complete list of benefits, click here.



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About CliftonLarsonAllen

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) is a leading professional services company based in Minneapolis, MN, US. CLA operates in the accounting industry and offers a broad range of products and services such as wealth advisory, outsourcing, audit, tax, and consulting services. The company was founded in 1953 with a merger between two firms, Clifton Gunderson and LarsonAllen, in 2012. Working in accordance with their mission to create opportunities for clients, people, and communities, they have established a presence across the US, serving privately held businesses, non-profits, and governmental entities. Recognized for their contributions, CLA has received accolades such as the Innovative Firm of the Year award.

Industry

Accounting services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

Year founded

2012