HYBRID Sr. Accountant - Controller Path; Payroll Exp Req

[HYBRID] Senior Accountant - Growth Path to Controller!

Location: near Sterling, VA; WFH Up to 2 days/week after onboarding (3–6 months)

Job Type: Full-Time

Typical

Hours:

M-F 8 AM – 5 PM ET; 40 hours

Start Date: ASAP

Sponsorship is not available

Our client, an engineering and construction services company, is looking for a Senior Accountant to join their team outside of Sterling, VA. You’ll serve as the primary accounting resource, handling weekly payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and other full-cycle accounting activities. This is a highly hands‑on role with a strong emphasis on multi‑state payroll, while also supporting executive leadership with month‑end close and financial reporting.

They’re looking for someone who genuinely enjoys being the hands‑on, tactical person in the accounting function and appreciates the trust and autonomy that comes with being relied upon to get the job done. The ideal candidate is proactive, takes initiative, and is resourceful enough to figure things out independently, while also being comfortable asking questions and raising their hand when support is needed.

Because this is a smaller company, you’ll have a direct line to ownership and the opportunity to have a real voice in the business, rather than just handling the accounting in the background. The role is designed to grow with the company, giving you the opportunity to take on increasing responsibility and ultimately grow into a Controller position.

Important Note: The interview process includes a technical assessment covering accounting, bookkeeping, payroll, Excel, math, and analytical skills.

• Process weekly multi-state payroll for exempt and non‑exempt employees
• Review timekeeping, pay rates, deductions, PTO, new hires, and other payroll changes
• Reconcile payroll records and liabilities and resolve discrepancies each pay cycle
• Support payroll tax filings and year‑end W‑2 preparation and reconciliation
• Enter and code vendor and subcontractor invoices in Quick Books Online
• Process vendor payments and maintain accurate AP records, W‑9s, and 1099 tracking
• Prepare customer invoices, apply payments, and follow up on outstanding balances
• Reconcile bank, credit card, AP, AR, and other balance sheet accounts
• Support month‑end close, including journal entries, accruals, prepaids, and reconciliations
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required
• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience required
• Experience leading month‑end close and preparing financial statements required
• Hands‑on payroll processing experience with both exempt and non‑exempt employees required