ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Financial Controller Jobs in Chicago, IL

Sedgwick Properties

Bookkeeper

Chicago, IL

... financial statements Maintain a meticulously organized accounting filing system Manage and maintain ... Seniority level Seniority level Entry level Employment type Employment type Full-time Job function ...

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 ...

Aerotek

Brazing Machine Operator

Rolling Meadows, IL

$20 - $26/hr

Brazing Machine Operator This entry-level role focuses on performing manual torch brazing ... The company supports your financial and career growth through opportunities for advancement, 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 Jul 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 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 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 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.

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 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 July 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.
PE Fund Admin - Fund Controller

PE Fund Admin - Fund Controller

The LaSalle Group

Chicago, IL • On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

If you're ready to move beyond pure execution work and into a role with greater ownership, client exposure, and leadership across fund operations, this could be an excellent next step.
In this role, the Fund Controller will work closely with internal team members and clients to lead the financial reporting and administration operations of assigned funds. This is a strong opportunity for an experienced accounting professional who wants to take on a more strategic seat within fund operations while remaining close to the numbers, the clients, and the broader investment ecosystem.
This opportunity is especially well suited for candidates coming from public accounting, fund administration, or alternative investment environments who are looking to step into a role with more ownership over fund accounting, capital activity, financial statements, and day-to-day client partnership.
This role follows a 3x in office schedule and is budgeted between $85,000-$110,000 base salary.
Fund Controller Responsibilities:
  • Lead fund accounting, capital account maintenance, and financial statement preparation for client relationships
  • Oversee financial reporting and administration operations across assigned funds
  • Serve as a key point of contact for clients, delivering a high-touch service experience
  • Partner cross-functionally with internal teams to support the full lifecycle of fund operations
  • Help drive accuracy, consistency, and timeliness across reporting deliverables and fund accounting processes
  • Contribute to a client-facing environment where strong technical accounting and relationship management are equally important

Fund Controller Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
  • 2+ years of relevant experience in fund administration, public accounting, or financial services
  • Strong foundation in fund accounting, capital account maintenance, and financial statement preparation
  • Exposure to private equity, venture capital, real estate, or fund-of-funds structures strongly preferred
  • Ability to operate in a client-facing role with strong communication and relationship-building skills
  • Detail-oriented, analytical, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, growing organization
  • Proven ability to take ownership of deliverables and operate with a high level of accountability
  • For candidates who want to build a long-term career in private markets, this is a compelling opportunity to join a firm that supports sophisticated investment managers and offers meaningful exposure to the operational side of the fund landscape. It is an ideal next move for someone who wants a blend of technical accounting, leadership, and client partnership in one role.
  • If you are interested in the Fund Controller opportunity and would like to learn more, please apply today.

Benefits:
Comprehensive healthcare benefits (medical, dental, vision, EAP), competitive PTO, 401(k) match.
Thank you,
Allee Struve
Principal, Accounting & Finance
LaSalle Network
#LI-AS6
LaSalle Network is an Equal Opportunity Employer m/f/d/v.
LaSalle Network is the leading provider of direct hire and temporary staffing services. For over two decades, LaSalle has helped organizations hire faster and connect top talent with opportunities, from entry-level positions to the C-suite. With units specializing in Accounting and Finance, Administrative, Engineering, Marketing, Technology, Supply Chain, Revenue Cycle, Call Center, Human Resources and Executive Search, LaSalle offers staffing and recruiting solutions to companies of all sizes and across all industries.

Apply