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The Controller Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

AEI

Controller

Washington, DC · On-site

Overview The American Enterprise Institute (AEI), a leading nonprofit public policy research organization, seek a full-time, in-person experienced and highly capable controller to lead its accounting ...

Climate Imperative Foundation

Controller

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$145K - $155K/yr

The Controller oversees accounting, financial reporting, audit execution, and grants financial management, while translating strategic financial priorities into disciplined operational execution.

Washington Humane Society

Controller

Washington, DC · On-site

About the Humane Rescue Alliance (HRA) For more than 150 years, the Humane Rescue Alliance has ... Reporting directly to the Director of Finance, the Controller manages the accounting operations of ...

BBB National Programs Inc

Controller

Mclean, VA · On-site

Controller WHO WE ARE We are a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering a more accountable ... As the home of U.S. independent industry self-regulation, we are currently operating more than ...

Martha's Table

Controller

Washington, DC · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

We apply the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion in providing programming and services; in creating our Board; in partnerships and procurement; and in hiring, training, and advancing our ...

MG Moving Services

Assistant Controller

Sterling, VA · On-site

Regular Full-Time The Assistant Controller supports the Controller in managing accounting operations, financial reporting, and compliance. This role focuses on execution, accuracy, and maintaining ...

Latitude Inc

Assistant Controller

Gaithersburg, MD

$37 - $45/hr

The ideal candidate will be highly organized, self-motivated, able to manage multiple tasks, and ... Controller/CFO Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance Minimum of 5 years ...

Latitude Inc

Assistant Controller

Rockville, MD

$75K - $90K/yr

About the Opportunity We are seeking an experienced Assistant Controller to join our finance team. This role is integral to ensuring accurate financial reporting, overseeing accounting operations ...

AshokaController

Controller

Rosslyn, VA · On-site

The challenges and opportunities at Ashoka are well-suited to an intrapreneurial leader with ... Ashoka's Controller will work with the CFO in ensuring accurate financial compliance as well as ...

Washington Performing Arts

Controller

Washington, DC · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Controller Title of Immediate Supervisor: Chief Financial Officer Salary Range: $90,000 - $100,000 ... One of the most established and honored performing arts institutions in America, Washington ...

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All JobsThe Controller JobsThe Controller Jobs in Reston, VA

The Controller information

See Reston, VA salary details

$57.2K

$124.3K

$182.6K

How much do the controller jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for the controller in Reston, VA is $124,319.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $100,900.00 and $144,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are controllers?

Controllers are senior-level professionals responsible for overseeing the accounting operations of an organization. Their main duties include managing financial reporting, ensuring compliance with accounting standards, supervising accounting staff, and developing internal controls. Controllers play a key role in budgeting, financial planning, and sometimes tax compliance. They ensure the accuracy of financial statements and may work closely with auditors and company leadership to guide financial decisions.

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

To thrive as a Controller, you need deep expertise in accounting, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance, typically backed by a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance and often a CPA credential. Familiarity with ERP systems, financial modeling software, and advanced Excel skills is crucial for managing and analyzing complex financial data. Exceptional analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong leadership abilities help Controllers guide teams and communicate financial insights to senior management. These competencies ensure accurate financial operations, strategic decision-making, and adherence to industry regulations.

What is the difference between The Controller vs The Financial Analyst?

AspectThe ControllerThe Financial Analyst
Primary RoleOversees accounting, financial reporting, and internal controlsAnalyzes financial data, prepares reports, and forecasts
Required CredentialsCPA or accounting degree often preferredFinance or accounting degree, often with CFA or CPA
Work EnvironmentTypically in finance or accounting departments, managerial levelAnalytical teams, finance departments, often in corporate settings
Industry UsageCommonly found in corporate finance, manufacturing, and large organizationsUsed across industries for financial planning and analysis

The Controller focuses on managing accounting operations and internal controls, while the Financial Analyst primarily analyzes financial data to support decision-making. Both roles require strong financial knowledge, but the Controller has a broader managerial and compliance focus, whereas the Financial Analyst emphasizes data analysis and forecasting.

How does a Controller typically collaborate with other departments to ensure accurate financial reporting?

Controllers play a central role in coordinating with various departments, such as operations, sales, and HR, to gather necessary financial data and ensure compliance with internal controls. This collaboration often involves regular meetings to review budgets, address discrepancies, and streamline reporting processes. By fostering strong cross-functional relationships, Controllers help maintain data integrity and facilitate timely, accurate financial statements, which are essential for informed decision-making across the organization.
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The Controller jobs near you

Controller

AEI

Washington, DC • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Overview
The American Enterprise Institute (AEI), a leading nonprofit public policy research organization, seek a full-time, in-person experienced and highly capable controller to lead its accounting and financial reporting functions. The anticipated start date for this position is as soon as possible.
Reporting to the chief financial officer, the controller will oversee all core accounting operations and financial reporting while supervising a team of five professional staff members. The person in this role carries primary responsibility for the integrity of AEI's general ledger, accounts payable and receivable, payroll, financial reporting, and internal controls.
The controller will play a key role in maintaining the financial discipline and operational rigor required to support a leading national research institution. The successful candidate will bring technical expertise and sound judgment and will work closely with program leadership to ensure that financial processes effectively support AEI's research mission and operational priorities.
This is a leadership role for a professional who combines strong accounting expertise with the ability to manage people, improve processes, and maintain the highest standards of financial stewardship. Qualified candidates should submit a resume, a cover letter demonstrating their interest in AEI's mission, and an academic transcript.
Responsibilities
  • Oversee all accounting operations, including the general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and financial reporting.
  • Maintain the integrity of the chart of accounts and accounting systems, ensuring their compliance with generally accepted accounting principles and regulatory requirements.
  • Design, implement, and continuously strengthen accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls.
  • Prepare accurate and timely financial statements and lead the fiscal year-end close process.
  • Manage the annual external audit, working closely with independent auditors and ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
  • Oversee compliance with all required federal, state, and local filings, including tax and regulatory returns, and ensure timely and accurate reporting related to employee benefit plans, including form 5500.
  • Lead the annual budget preparation process and monitor financial performance throughout the year, including tracking results against budget and preparing variance analyses and forecasts for senior management.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop the accounting team while maintaining a collaborative and high-performing department.
  • Prepare routine and ad hoc financial reports and analyses for senior leadership.
  • Manage banking relationships and monitor liquidity to ensure operational needs are met.
  • Support grant management and ensure compliance with donor requirements and applicable regulations.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions at AEI
  • The employee is regularly expected to stand, sit, talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer, telephone, and keyboard. This job requires close-up vision for computer work.
  • The employee must be able to lift up to 30 pounds.
  • The employee must be able to work in a confined area.
  • Moderate noise (e.g., from computers, phones, printers, and light traffic) is expected.
    Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential responsibilities associated with this position.

Qualifications
  • A certified public accountant license (required)
  • A bachelor's degree in accounting or business administration (required)
  • 10 or more years of progressive accounting experience, including significant experience supervising accounting staff
  • Significant experience in nonprofit accounting or public accounting with a nonprofit client base (strongly preferred)
  • Demonstrated solid experience managing audits and producing high-quality financial reporting
  • Demonstrated experience managing annual budget preparation and monitoring financial performance against budget, including variance analysis and reporting to senior leadership
  • A strong understanding of internal controls, accounting systems, compliance, and financial management best practices
  • A proven ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining exceptional attention to detail
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to explain complex financial concepts clearly to nonfinancial colleagues
  • High personal integrity, sound judgment, and a strong sense of responsibility for the organization's financial stewardship
  • Experience with Sage Intacct, Solver, or similar cloud-based accounting systems (preferred)

Benefits
AEI offers generous benefits, including paid family leave; medical and dental coverage, in addition to a health savings account; medical and dependent care flexible spending accounts; a tuition assistance program of up to $5,200; life and disability insurance at no cost to employees; and a 403(b) retirement plan with a contribution from AEI, among other benefits. For more information, you can see a full summary of our benefits at https://www.aei.org/jobs/benefits/.
Compensation is based on a number of factors, including the position's scope and responsibilities; a candidate's full-time, applicable work experience; key skills and qualifications; and internal and external market considerations. The salary range for this full-time, exempt position is $155,000-$180,000. Salary is just one component of AEI's total compensation package for employees.

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