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Cost Controller Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Controller serves as the technical leader of the Finance Department and is a vital partner in ... Lead on monitoring cost reimbursements and contract billing to ensure timely and accurate billings ...

Assistant Controller

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

Job Cost & WIP Support * Review job cost activity for accuracy and proper job and cost-code allocation. * Assist the Controller with preparation and maintenance of monthly WIP schedules. * Reconcile ...

Controller

Vista, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

The Controller is a full-time, on-site role. This position oversees day-to-day accounting ... Continuously seek opportunities to enhance cost control strategies and methodologies, staying ...

Looking to hire a Controller with experience in manufacturing accounting and finance. This position ... An advanced understanding of cost accounting and payroll is a must. Salary based on amount of ...

Establish national cost control standards, thresholds, and escalation triggers that protect project ... Partner with FP&A, the Controller, and the CFO on board materials, lender covenant reporting, and ...

Controller

West Sacramento, CA · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Summary The Controller is a key member of the leadership team and reports directly to Executive ... Manage project cost accounting, including labor burden calculations, material costs, project ...

Controller

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$175K/yr

Own real time production finance needs around per-video budgets, cost reports, overages, wrap ... WHO OVERSEES YOU The Controller will report directly to the Chief Financial Officer. WHERE IT ALL ...

Controller

Benicia, CA · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We seek an experienced controller to oversee our accounting staff of five. The ideal candidate will ... Oversee and monitor cost accounting system and provide recommendations and guidance to management ...

Controller

West Sacramento, CA · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Summary The Controller is a key member of the leadership team and reports directly to Executive ... cost accounting, including labor burden calculations, material costs, project profitability ...

This position requires extensive experience in manufacturing accounting, cost accounting, inventory ... The Controller will ensure accurate financial reporting, maintain a strong system of internal ...

Own real time production finance needs around per-video budgets, cost reports, overages, wrap ... WHO OVERSEES YOU The Controller will report directly to the Chief Financial Officer. WHERE IT ALL ...

The Controller ensures compliance with GAAP, Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement requirements ... Cost per Visit * Admission Growth * Clinical Labor Utilization Internal Controls & Compliance

Controller

Benicia, CA

$125K - $175K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We seek an experienced controller to oversee our accounting staff of five. The ideal candidate will ... Oversee and monitor cost accounting system and provide recommendations and guidance to management ...

Controller

Benicia, CA · On-site

$125K - $175K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We seek an experienced controller to oversee our accounting staff of five. The ideal candidate will ... Oversee and monitor cost accounting system and provide recommendations and guidance to management ...

Controller

Vista, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

The Controller is a full-time, on-site role. This position oversees day-to-day accounting ... Continuously seek opportunities to enhance cost control strategies and methodologies, staying ...

Controller

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$140K - $170K/yr

Controller Department: Outsourced Accounting Reports To: CFO/ Senior Finance Consultant FLSA ... Provide strategic guidance on financial planning, cost management, and profitability analysis ...

Controller (Plant)

Delano, CA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

... experienced Plant Controller to provide financial direction for operations in Kern County ... The ideal candidate brings strong expertise in cost accounting, forecasting, and operational ...

Controller

Culver City, CA · On-site

$140K - $196K/yr

Controller Salary: $140,000$196,000 Location: Culver City, CA (Onsite) NOW CFO is conducting a ... Coordinate with leadership on billing for cost reports and services invoices * Partner with the ...

Controller

Los Alamitos, CA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

... in cost and productivity. Essential Responsibilities * Serve as a partner to the Bii Business ... Master of MBA-Accounting/Finance preferred * 5+ years of Plant Controller experience * CPA/CMA ...

Showing results 41-60

Cost Controller information

See California salary details

$35K

$97K

$146.1K

How much do cost controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for cost controller in California is $96,990.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $117,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cost controller?

Cost controllers track and control the costs associated with a project. They work in many different industries, including business, construction, and health care. As a cost controller, your job duties include verifying costs with vendors and suppliers, estimating expenditures, and recommending cost-saving measures to upper management. To become a cost controller, you need a bachelor’s degree in business, finance, or a related field and several years of industry experience.

How does a cost controller typically collaborate with project managers and other departments to ensure project budgets are maintained?

A Cost Controller works closely with project managers, procurement teams, and finance departments to monitor spending, forecast costs, and ensure budgets are adhered to throughout a project's lifecycle. Regular meetings and status updates are common, allowing the Cost Controller to track progress, identify potential overruns early, and suggest corrective actions. Effective communication and proactive problem-solving are essential, as the role often involves negotiating with various stakeholders to maintain financial discipline while supporting project objectives.

What is the difference between Cost Controller vs Cost Analyst?

AspectCost ControllerCost Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in finance, accounting, or related field; certifications like CMA or CPA are commonSimilar credentials; often holds degrees in finance, accounting, or economics; certifications like CMA are advantageous
Work EnvironmentUsually employed in construction, manufacturing, or large corporate projects; involved in budgeting and cost managementWorks in finance or accounting departments; focuses on analyzing costs and financial data
Industry UsageCommonly used in industries with large projects or production processesUsed across various industries for financial analysis and reporting

While both roles involve financial analysis, a Cost Controller primarily manages and monitors project or departmental budgets, ensuring costs stay within limits. A Cost Analyst focuses on analyzing financial data to identify cost-saving opportunities and support decision-making. Both roles require strong analytical skills and financial knowledge, but their focus areas differ slightly.

How much does a cost controller make in the US?

A cost controller in the US typically earns between $60,000 and $90,000 annually, depending on experience, industry, and location. Senior or specialized roles can pay over $100,000, especially in large companies or high-cost areas. The role often requires proficiency with budgeting, financial analysis, and cost management tools.

What does a cost controller do?

A cost controller is responsible for monitoring and managing a company's expenses to ensure projects and operations stay within budget. They analyze financial data, prepare reports, and implement cost-saving measures, often using accounting software. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail are essential for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cost Controller jobs in California?

The most popular types of Cost Controller jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Cost Controller jobs in California?

For Cost Controller jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cost Controller jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cost Controller jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Cost Controller jobs in CA?

For Cost Controller jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cost Controller job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,990 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

$100K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

JOB Summary:

The Controller serves as the technical leader of the Finance Department and is a vital partner in advancing The Midnight Mission's work to restore dignity, stability, and self-sufficiency to people experiencing homelessness. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Controller brings deep expertise in GAAP, nonprofit fund accounting, financial reporting, and the integration of business systems, applying advanced proficiency with financial software and a strong command of internal and external audit processes. The Controller oversees the accounting system and its connectivity with all other Finance systems, developing unified, reliable processes for tracking, reporting, and analysis. In carrying out this work, the Controller helps steward the resources that make our mission possible and contributes to a workplace grounded in safety, trust, collaboration, and respect.

This role partners with departments to ensure accurate, timely monthly and annual financial closes. The Controller supports the CFO with compliance, audit, tax, and other technical functions and reporting, and fosters a supportive, growth-oriented environment for the Finance team.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

  • Track, monitor and develop reports on contract billing and cost reimbursements for management, board, and audit review.
  • Monthly reconciliation along with appropriate Journal Entries of the investments, including the contractual allotments, labor allocations, and grants.
  • Lead on monitoring cost reimbursements and contract billing to ensure timely and accurate billings and payments.
  • Supervise the General Ledger systems and connections to all other systems, ensuring best practices for internal controls.
  • Support the CFO in tracking debt covenants and create ratios and dashboard for key indicators of financial health.
  • Co-lead (with the CFO) all monthly and annual closes with a focus on all sources of revenue, releases from restrictions, accruals, and reconciliation of special projects.
  • Oversight and development of systems to account for revenue and expenses for government and foundation grants and prepare regular financial reports and requests for payments from government agencies.
  • Co-Lead the department in preparing fiscal year-end audit schedules and preliminary federal and state tax returns for review, approval, and submission by the CFO and leadership, (e.g., 990 and other tax returns, 1099, etc.).
  • Work closely with the CFO and Finance team members to create, sustain, and monitor appropriate and effective forecasting models for cash-flow and budgets.
  • Approve all proposed journal entries and uploads on a monthly and annual basis.
  • Model professional, respectful, and inclusive communication in all interactions, contributing to a trauma-informed, psychologically safe workplace culture.
  • Develop and maintain systems for tracking fixed assets, capital spending and large project spending.
  • Collaborate with the CFO and the CEO's office on tracking and providing costing scenarios for the BOD Strategic Planning committee and the organization's strategic plan.
  • Perform appropriate back up duties for finance team, as necessary.
  • Support the Chief Financial Officer in their role as liaison to Finance and Asset and the Audit Committees of the Board of Directors.
  • Provide routine and ad-hoc analysis and reporting as needed.

Education

  • Active CPA license required. Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required. MBA a plus.

Experience

  • Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible accounting experience, including supervisory experience and nonprofit fund accounting; experience with government grant accounting and fiscal analysis strongly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

  • A posture of maturity and a desire to build and lead a team
  • Advanced proficiency with Sage Intacct (or a comparable Sage fund-accounting/ERP platform), Microsoft Excel, and general ledger system integration
  • Previous experience in accounting management or other related fields
  • Non-profit background (Government Grants knowledge)
  • Strong working knowledge of GAAP and nonprofit fund accounting standards
  • Strong leadership qualities
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Deadline and detail-oriented
  • Sound judgment and discretion in handling confidential financial, donor, and personnel information
  • Commitment to trauma-informed values and cultural humility, with the ability to work respectfully alongside colleagues and guests from diverse backgrounds and lived experiences
  • Expertise in general ledger
  • Month end closings experience
  • Ability to multitask and communicate well with individuals of all backgrounds

OR

Any combination of academic education, professional training or work experience which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position

Compensation

Pay Scale: $100k-$115k annually. In accordance with California law, this range reflects the compensation The Midnight Mission reasonably expects to pay for this position. Actual pay will be determined based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity.

Our Commitment to a Trauma-Informed, Inclusive Workplace

The Midnight Mission is committed to a trauma-informed, person-centered culture built on safety, trust, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural humility. We recognize that many members of our team and the people we serve have experienced trauma, and we expect every team member-in every role-to help sustain an environment that is respectful, supportive, and free from harassment and discrimination.

Equal Opportunity & Reasonable Accommodation

The Midnight Mission is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to applicants and employees with needs related to religious practices, pregnancy, or other protected circumstances. If you need an accommodation to participate in the application process or to perform the essential functions of this role, please contact Human Resources.