Operations Controller Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sound Specialists and 4S Security are leading providers of luxury residential and commercial technology integration. We design and install audio/video, lighting control, networking, automation, and security systems for high end homes and commercial projects throughout the Chicago area. Currently we are positioned for break-out growth geographically throughout the United States. We have a strong balance sheet, a dedicated design and installation team, and an excellent reputation for integrity, quality, and client relationships.

We are looking for a hands-on Controller who wants to be part of a growing company and play a key role in improving financial performance, reporting, and business operations.

Requirements

The Controller will oversee all accounting and financial operations for both companies. This position reports directly to the CEO and is responsible for delivering accurate financial reporting, maintaining strong internal controls, managing cash flow, and providing financial insight that helps drive business decisions.

This is a leadership role for someone who enjoys building processes, improving efficiency, and working in a fast-paced project-based business.

As Controller, you will lead all accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, cash management, and compliance functions You will partner closely with executive leadership, sales, project managers, and operations to ensure financial accuracy, strengthen internal controls, optimize cash flow, and provide timely financial insights that support profitable growth.

You will oversee the day-to-day accounting function while helping build scalable financial processes appropriate for a growing organization. And you will upgrade the finance function by driving continuous improvement of accounting processes, reporting, controls, and financial systems to support the company’s continued growth and scalability.

Lead all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, fixed assets, and month-end and year-end close.

· Lead all accounting operations for two growing companies

· Prepare accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.

· Maintain the integrity of the general ledger and ensure all accounting records are complete and accurate.

· Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll and banking

· Manage cash flow and working capital

· Manage project accounting, including job costing, work-in-progress (WIP) reporting, percentage-of-completion accounting (where applicable), and project profitability analysis.

· Develop and maintain strong internal controls and accounting policies that safeguard company assets.

· Partner with project managers to monitor project budgets, change orders, labor utilization, purchasing, and job performance throughout the project lifecycle.

· Develop financial dashboards and key performance indicators (KPIs) that provide visibility into revenue, gross margin, backlog, labor productivity, overhead, and cash flow.

· Prepare annual budgets, rolling forecasts, and financial models to support strategic planning and operational decision-making.

· Review customer billing, collections, retainage (if applicable), vendor payments, and purchasing processes to improve cash conversion.

· Coordinate relationships with external CPA firms, banks, insurance providers, and taxing authorities.

· Manage annual financial statement reviews or audits and coordinate tax preparation with outside advisors.

· Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax requirements, licensing, business registrations, and other regulatory filings.

· Supervise and mentor accounting staff while helping elevate the overall capability of the finance function.

· Evaluate and improve accounting systems, workflows, and reporting processes, leveraging technology to increase efficiency and accuracy.

· Support executive management with financial analysis related to pricing, profitability, acquisitions, capital investments, and other strategic initiatives.

· Perform other financial leadership responsibilities as assigned.

· Bachelor's degree in Accounting; CPA required.

· 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, including prior supervisory or management experience.

· Experience as Controller or Assistant Controller in construction, systems integration, electrical contracting, low-voltage/security, AV integration, or another project-based business.

· Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial statement preparation and demonstrated experience with project accounting including percentage of completion accounting, job costing, WIP reporting, revenue recognition, and project forecasting.

· Experience developing budgets, forecasts, cash flow projections, and management reporting.

· Strong understanding of internal controls and process improvement.

· Experience managing external audits and coordinating tax compliance.

· Advanced Microsoft Excel skills; experience with QuickBooks, D-Tools, and project management/accounting software preferred.

· Ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-financial managers.

· Highly organized with exceptional analytical skills, attention to detail, and a hands-on approach, with demonstrated success managing multiple priorities.

· Comfortable working in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment where flexibility and initiative are highly valued.

Benefits

We Offer

• Competitive salary
• Health benefits
• Paid time off
• 401(k)
• Growth opportunities with an established and expanding company

If you're a proactive leader who enjoys building efficient operations and helping teams succeed, we'd love to hear from you.