Controller

Location: Gainesville, FL

Salary: Up to $150,000

Industry: HVAC, Construction, Mechanical Contracting

Overview

Syntax Talent Solutions is seeking an experienced Controller for a growing HVAC and construction-related company in Gainesville, FL. This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on accounting leader to oversee financial operations, strengthen internal controls, and partner with executive leadership to support continued growth.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in HVAC, construction, mechanical contracting, or a similar project-based industry, with experience managing accounting operations, job costing, and financial reporting.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and month-end close.
• Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
• Manage job costing, work-in-progress (WIP) reporting, and project profitability analysis.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and financial planning.
• Monitor project costs, labor expenses, margins, and revenue recognition.
• Manage billing, collections, and working capital to support operational cash flow.
• Establish and improve accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Lead and develop the accounting team while ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting.
• Partner with executive leadership and operations to identify opportunities for cost savings and improved profitability.
• Coordinate annual audits, tax filings, and external accounting relationships.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required.
• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, including prior leadership or Controller-level responsibilities.
• Experience in HVAC, construction, mechanical contracting, or a similar project-based industry strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of job costing, WIP schedules, percentage-of-completion accounting, and project profitability.
• Knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting, budgeting, and cash flow management.
• Experience overseeing accounting teams and improving financial processes.
• Proficiency with ERP/accounting systems and advanced Excel skills.
• CPA preferred but not required.
• Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills.

Perks / Benefits

• Competitive base salary up to $150,000.
• Opportunity to work closely with executive leadership and influence financial strategy.
• High-visibility position with ownership of the accounting function.
• Opportunity to implement process improvements and support company growth.
• Long-term career growth and leadership opportunities.