We are looking for an experienced Controller to support a steel manufacturing organization in Ridgefield, Washington on a Contract basis. This position will lead core accounting and financial oversight activities within a project-driven environment, with a strong emphasis on cost visibility, billing accuracy, and operational partnership. The role will work closely with senior leadership and ownership while helping strengthen financial processes, reporting, and team capability.
Responsibilities:
• Direct accounting and financial control activities for a project-based operation, ensuring accurate reporting and dependable month-end results.
• Review job cost performance in detail, identify variances, and deliver clear project performance insights to leadership for decision-making.
• Oversee project and job billing processes to confirm timely invoicing, proper revenue tracking, and alignment with contract terms.
• Build and maintain advanced Excel-based analyses, schedules, and reports that support forecasting, cost monitoring, and financial review.
• Partner with executive leadership and the Board to provide financial updates, explain project trends, and support strategic planning discussions.
• Coach and develop a Project Cost Accountant by providing day-to-day guidance, training, and mentorship on cost accounting practices and reporting expectations.
• Strengthen cross-functional coordination by working closely with operational teams to improve communication around project progress, costs, and billing status.
• Help maintain organized financial documentation and supporting records related to project accounting, billing, and cost tracking.
• Contribute to process improvements that enhance reporting accuracy, internal controls, and the overall effectiveness of the finance function.• At least 7 years of progressive accounting and finance experience, including leadership responsibility in a Controller or similar role.
• Demonstrated success with job costing in a construction or project-based business environment.
• Hands-on experience managing project or job billing with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Advanced Excel skills, including the ability to create complex financial analyses, reconciliations, and reporting tools.
• Ability to analyze project progress and translate financial results into practical recommendations for leadership.
• Experience mentoring or supervising accounting staff and supporting the development of less-experienced team members.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and teamwork skills with the ability to work effectively across leadership and operational groups.
• Background in document management activities such as compiling, scanning, and maintaining organized records is helpful.