Controller, Accounting, Financial Compliance

Controller

PHILADELPHIA - PHILADELPHIA, PA 19106

Salary Range $ - $

Urban Engineers is seeking an experienced and collaborative Controller to lead the firm's accounting operations and financial reporting functions. Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer, the Controller is responsible for ensuring the integrity of the firm's financial information, maintaining strong internal controls, supporting strategic decision-making, and leading a high-performing Accounting & Finance team.

This leadership role oversees accounting operations, financial reporting, payroll, tax compliance, audits, ERP optimization, and financial systems while driving operational excellence and continuous improvement. The Controller serves as a trusted advisor to the CFO and executive leadership, providing timely financial insights that support the firm's growth, profitability, and long-term success.

Financial Leadership

• Direct all accounting operations and ensure accurate GAAP-compliant financial reporting.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, departmental profit and loss reports, executive dashboards, and supporting analyses.
• Analyze financial performance and recommend corrective actions.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, financial planning, and cash flow management.
• Partner with the CFO on financial strategy and organizational planning.

Accounting Operations

• Oversee the general ledger, AP, AR, fixed assets, payroll accounting, and close process.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local accounting and tax requirements.
• Manage corporate overhead allocations and indirect cost structures.
• Maintain accurate financial records and accounting policies.

Audit, Compliance & Internal Controls

• Coordinate financial, FAR overhead, ESOP, 401(k), tax, and client audits.
• Oversee corporate tax filings.
• Develop and monitor internal controls.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, FAR, and DCAA requirements.

Financial Systems & Process Improvement

• Lead ERP optimization and process improvement initiatives.
• Leverage automation and technology to improve reporting.
• Develop standardized financial policies and procedures.

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop the Accounting & Finance team.
• Support employee engagement, coaching, and professional development.
• Promote a collaborative, customer-focused, high-performing culture.

Strategic Partnership

• Advise the CFO on accounting, compliance, and operational improvements.
• Support Board, Audit Committee, and executive reporting.
• Provide financial analysis supporting strategic decisions.

Education

• Bachelor's degree in accounting required.
• Master's degree in accounting, finance, or business administration preferred.

Licensure

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) required.

Experience

• Minimum 8–10 years of progressive accounting leadership, including public accounting.
• AEC industry experience strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated background using ERPs with a strong preference for Deltek Vantagepoint experience.
• Experience leading audits, ERP implementations, and multi-office accounting operations.
• Experience managing and developing accounting professionals.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Extensive knowledge of GAAP, auditing, internal controls, and financial compliance.
• Strong understanding of FAR overhead, project accounting, and indirect cost allocations.
• Advanced Excel and ERP skills.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.

Working Conditions

• Hybrid office environment with flexibility to work remotely based on business needs. Occasional travel to Urban Engineers offices and ability to lift up to 10 pounds.

• Medical/Prescription
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance
• Short/Long Term Disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• 401K and company match
• Vacation, Holiday, and Personal Days
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Professional Development
• Certification Bonus

Equal Employment Opportunity/M/F/disability/protected veteran status