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Project Controller Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

We offer support services to CPAs and Corporate Accounting departments in both short-term and long-term projects and assignments. You may learn more about us at We are looking for a controller who ...

Controller

Sterling, VA · On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

GAAP, FAR, CAS, and DCAA requirements while overseeing accounting operations, indirect rates, project accounting, billing, payroll, audits, and financial reporting. The Controller partners with ...

Controller

Sterling, VA

$140K - $185K/yr

GAAP, FAR, CAS, and DCAA requirements while overseeing accounting operations, indirect rates, project accounting, billing, payroll, audits, and financial reporting. The Controller partners with ...

Corporate Controller

Lanham, MD · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Drive key projects * Champion automation, reporting enhancements and scalable financial systems Qualifications for the Corporate Controller * Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance or related field ...

Program Controller

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Position Overview The Program Controller is responsible for developing and producing financial ... Assign employees to projects based on work structure provided by program managers and ensure ...

Interim Controller

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$145K - $148K/yr

... projects as requested Qualifications for the Interim Controller: • Bachelor's degree in Accounting required • Prior Controller, Assistant Controller, or senior accounting leadership experience ...

Controller

Washington, DC · On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Support executive leadership with financial modeling, scenario planning, and special projects as ... a Controller or senior accounting leadership role. * Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial ...

Controller

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$170K - $240K/yr

SILTT is scaling rapidly and we are searching for a dynamic and highly motivated Controller to ... Support strategic projects, system implementations, and process improvements. MINIMUM ...

Controller

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$130K - $150K/yr

Support executive leadership with financial modeling, scenario planning, and special projects as ... a Controller or senior accounting leadership role. * Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial ...

Controller

Mclean, VA · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

... their Controller. This position will function as the head of the accounting department and will ... Monitor project costs, budgets, and financial performance to identify trends, risks, and ...

Controller

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$130K - $150K/yr

Support executive leadership with financial modeling, scenario planning, and special projects as ... a Controller or senior accounting leadership role. * Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial ...

Controller

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

Ready to step into a hands-on Controller consulting role where your banking expertise truly makes an impact? This opportunity offers visibility, autonomy, and the chance to help guide a growing bank ...

The Controller will lead the accounting department and oversee day-to-day accounting operations ... Recommend and undertake projects to research and implement improvements or additions to the company ...

Controller

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

The Controller will lead the accounting department and oversee day-to-day accounting operations ... Recommend and undertake projects to research and implement improvements or additions to the company ...

Showing results 21-40

Project Controller information

See Washington, DC salary details

$53.2K

$119.4K

$165.9K

How much do project controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for project controller in Washington, DC is $119,368.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,800.00 and $140,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Project Controller vs Project Coordinator?

AspectProject ControllerProject Coordinator
Primary RoleFinancial oversight, budgeting, and project cost controlAssists with project scheduling, communication, and administrative tasks
Required SkillsFinancial analysis, project management software, budgetingCommunication, organization, basic project management
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, engineering firms, large projectsOffice settings, project teams, administrative support
CertificationsPMI-SP, CAPM, or similar financial/project management certificationsNone typically required, but PMP or CAPM can be beneficial

The Project Controller focuses on financial management and cost control within projects, ensuring budgets are maintained. In contrast, the Project Coordinator handles administrative tasks, scheduling, and communication to support project execution. Both roles are essential but differ mainly in their focus areas and responsibilities.

How does a project controller typically interact with project managers and other team members during a project's lifecycle?

Project Controllers work closely with project managers and cross-functional teams to monitor budgets, track progress, and ensure projects remain on schedule and within financial parameters. They frequently attend project meetings, provide financial reports, and proactively identify risks or deviations from the plan. Effective communication and collaboration are essential as Project Controllers often serve as the bridge between finance, project management, and operational teams, helping to ensure transparency and informed decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a project controller, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Project Controller, you need strong analytical skills, financial acumen, and a background in project management, often supported by a degree in finance, accounting, or engineering. Familiarity with project management software (such as MS Project or Primavera), ERP systems, and relevant certifications like PMP or CCP is highly valued. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure accurate project tracking, budget control, and effective stakeholder communication, all of which are vital for project success.

What is a project controller?

A project controller is a member of a project management team that focuses on the financial health of a project. As a project controller, you work for consulting firms that provide management services related to information technology or human resources projects. You often interact directly with the project manager to define goals, and with clients to review project pricing and financial budget reports. Your job duties also include analyzing progress reports and monitoring the schedule to help ensure the effort is finished on time and under budget. On top of communication skills, having the ability to analyze financial aspects such as cost, revenue, and risk is crucial to your job as a project controller. Although a wide range of qualifications is common for this career, most project controllers have a graduate degree in business, accounting, or finance. Experience as a consultant or accountant is also typical.

What are the most commonly searched types of Project Controller jobs in Washington, DC? The most popular types of Project Controller jobs in Washington, DC are:
What are popular job titles related to Project Controller jobs in Washington, DC? For Project Controller jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Project Controller jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Project Controller jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Project Controller job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,368 per year, or $57.4 per hour.

GovCon Controller

Cherry Bekaert

Washington, DC • On-site

$185K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Cherry Bekaert rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 22 rated bookkeepers and accountants


Job description

GovCon Controller
Government Contracting Controller
Location: Washington DC Metro Area
Compensation: $185k +benefits
We are partnering with a growing government contractor seeking an experienced Controller to lead accounting operations and support executive leadership with financial reporting, compliance, and strategic initiatives.
This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on accounting leader who thrives in a dynamic environment and has a strong understanding of government contracting regulations, project accounting, and financial management.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process
  • Oversee general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and cash management
  • Prepare and review financial statements in accordance with GAAP
  • Ensure compliance with DCAA, FAR, CAS, and government contract requirements
  • Manage indirect rate calculations, incurred cost submissions, and audit support activities
  • Partner with executive leadership on budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning
  • Develop and enhance internal controls, accounting policies, and financial processes
  • Supervise and mentor accounting staff
  • Support ERP system improvements, implementations, and process optimization initiatives
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance
  • CPA preferred
  • 8+ years of progressive accounting experience, including leadership responsibilities
  • Government contracting experience required
  • Strong understanding of DCAA compliance, FAR, CAS, and cost accounting principles
  • Experience with ERP systems such as Deltek Costpoint, Unanet, Jamis, NetSuite, or similar platforms
  • Advanced Excel and financial reporting skills
  • Excellent communication and leadership abilities
Preferred Experience
  • Mid-sized government contractor environment
  • Incurred cost submissions and DCAA audits
  • Multi-contract and project-based accounting
  • M&A integration, systems conversion, or growth-stage organizations

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