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Entry Level Financial Controller Jobs in Chicago, IL

Adecco

Accounting Clerk

Itasca, IL

$21 - $27/hr

Accounting Clerk - Entry Level (Direct Hire) Location Itasca, Illinois Employment Type Full-time, ... Position Summary The Accounting Clerk is responsible for accurately processing financial ...

New

IMI plc

Machinist I - 2nd Shift

University Park, IL · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

This is the first (entry) level of Machinists; in this role employee is able to alternately set up ... Operates and adjusts semi-automatic or automatic numerically controlled machine tools to perform a ...

All JobsFinancial Controller JobsEntry Level Financial Controller JobsEntry Level Financial Controller Jobs in Chicago, IL

Entry Level Financial Controller information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$40.7K

$114.6K

$162.9K

How much do entry level financial controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level financial controller in Chicago, IL is $114,584.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,400.00 and $133,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level financial controller?

An Entry Level Financial Controller is a finance professional who assists in overseeing a company's accounting operations, financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance with regulations. They typically work under the supervision of a senior controller or finance manager, helping to ensure accurate financial records and supporting decision-making processes. Responsibilities may include preparing financial statements, managing accounts payable and receivable, and assisting with audits. This role is ideal for recent graduates or those with limited experience seeking to build a career in financial management.

What are the typical responsibilities and challenges faced by an entry level financial controller during their first year on the job?

As an Entry Level Financial Controller, you will primarily be tasked with assisting in the preparation of financial statements, managing accounts, supporting budgeting processes, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. A common challenge is quickly adapting to complex accounting software and learning the company's specific financial processes. You'll also collaborate closely with accounting teams, auditors, and department managers to gather data and ensure accuracy. This role provides a strong foundation in financial operations and can lead to advancement into senior controlling or financial management positions as you gain experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level financial controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Financial Controller, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, and a relevant degree such as finance or accounting. Familiarity with ERP systems (like SAP or Oracle), advanced Excel skills, and sometimes CPA or CMA certification are commonly expected. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills that set candidates apart. These competencies ensure accurate financial management, regulatory compliance, and clear reporting to support sound business decisions.

What is the difference between Entry Level Financial Controller vs Bookkeeper?

AspectEntry Level Financial ControllerBookkeeper
CredentialsBasic accounting knowledge, possibly a degree in finance or accountingHigh school diploma or equivalent, basic bookkeeping skills
Work EnvironmentCorporate finance departments, accounting firmsSmall businesses, retail, service industries
ResponsibilitiesFinancial reporting, budgeting, internal controlsRecording transactions, maintaining ledgers, invoicing

The Entry Level Financial Controller typically handles more complex financial tasks like reporting and budgeting, requiring some formal education. In contrast, a Bookkeeper focuses on recording daily financial transactions with less emphasis on analysis. Both roles are essential but differ in scope and responsibilities within the finance team.

How to become an entry level financial controller with no experience?

To become an entry-level financial controller with no experience, candidates should focus on obtaining a relevant degree such as accounting or finance, develop basic skills in financial analysis and accounting software, and consider earning certifications like CPA or CMA to enhance credibility. Gaining internship or entry-level experience in finance or accounting roles can also improve prospects for this position.

What is the best entry-level financial controller job?

An entry-level financial controller role typically involves assisting with financial reporting, budgeting, and internal controls. Candidates often need a bachelor's degree in finance or accounting, proficiency with accounting software, and strong analytical skills. Gaining relevant certifications like CPA or CMA can improve job prospects and advancement opportunities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Financial Controller jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Financial Controller jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Financial Controller jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Financial Controller jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Financial Controller jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Financial Controller jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Entry Level Financial Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Financial Controller job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $114,584 per year, or $55.1 per hour.

Entry Level Machine Operator - 1st Shift

Perfect Plastic Printing Corp

Saint Charles, IL • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

POSITION TITLE: MACHINE OPERATOR II (BURKLE)
Current Shift Availability: 1st Shift - Monday - Thursday 5:00 am - 3:30 pm. This is a full time, 40 hour per week position with full benefits offered (i.e. Medical, Dental, Vision, 401k Match, EAP and more). We foster an exceptional work environment with regular employee engagement/appreciation events, luncheons, growth opportunities, temperature controlled and clean work environment.
This position starts at $17.00/hour.
This is an entry level Machine Operator position, with the opportunity to learn several additional machines over time. Each new machine learned has an associated step raise included. If you are interested in personal and mechanical growth, this could be a great fit for you. If you are interested in the position below, feel free to apply.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  1. Follow all applicable sop’s (standard operating procedures).
  2. Receives job ticket and/or verbal instructions.
  3. Locates job, either in holding area or from collator.
  4. Reads and understands ticket, proof and verbal instructions; loads station accordingly.
  5. Follow first piece procedure or lamination test procedure.
  6. Maintains all quality procedures and maintains accurate records.
  7. Maintain correct plate handling and sheet guidance methods, as defined by scratch prevention training in sop m0314.
  8. Responsible to understand and maintain sop m0316, quality standards thereof.
  9. Use cotton gloves to protect plates from prints.
  10. Identify the load by writing down the job number. If the load consists of more than one job, identify the load accordingly.
  11. Performs other duties as required by shift supervisor.
  12. Enters accurate information into the m.i.s. As required.
  13. Able to maintain consistent production results per scheduled requirements.
  14. Alerts shift supervisor of any burke system problems, i.e. malfunctions, etc.
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
  1. Standing throughout most of the shift
  2. Constant lateral arm movement (only stop is break and lunch).
  3. Constantly moving a wheeled cart
  4. Lifting 50-70 lbs (infrequent basis)
  5. Must have good communication skills (reasonably proficient at reading and speaking English)
  6. Basic knowledge about computers.
  7. Basic technical knowledge.
About us: Perfect Plastic Printing has been family owned since 1965 – we are a top 5 card manufacturer in the world, serving financial institutions both large and small. As a family owned company we have established a reputation as a valued service provider with dedicated customer service from concept to delivery. We are committed to making the highest quality plastic cards, a commitment we have kept for 55 years. We have built a reputation for loyalty to our customers by striving to be the best at producing consistently high quality cards, in volume, and with a demonstrated track record of on-time deliveries.
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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