Controller/Senior Finance Leader

About ACE

ACE is a leading systems integrator providing industrial automation and control solutions across a wide range of industries. With more than 200 employees and satellite offices across the U.S., ACE designs and delivers complex control systems and engineering solutions that improve productivity, quality, and efficiency for our customers.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Controller to oversee ACE's financial operations and guide the organization's fiscal health as we continue to grow. The ideal candidate will bring a strong foundation in accounting and finance within a project-driven or consulting environment, ideally supporting engineers or technical professionals. This role offers the opportunity to influence company-wide decision-making and contribute to strategic initiatives while managing day-to-day accounting operations.

This position may evolve into a more senior financial leadership role (such as CFO) depending on the candidate's experience and long-term impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of accounting operations, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, general ledger, and project accounting.
• Manage a small accounting team (3–4 employees) and coordinate with external partners (Paychex for payroll, vendors, auditors, etc.).
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports; ensure accuracy and compliance with GAAP standards.
• Support project delivery teams by generating reports, managing project invoicing, and tracking equipment orders.
• Provide financial insight and strategic recommendations to executive leadership.
• Maintain and improve internal controls, policies, and procedures to enhance efficiency and consistency.
• Assist in developing budgets, forecasts, and financial models.
• Collaborate with project managers and engineers to ensure financial visibility across all active projects.
• Manage cash flow, monitor key performance indicators, and support executive-level decision-making.
• Coordinate external audits and serve as a primary point of contact for auditors, tax advisors, and accountants.
• Participate in financial discussions related to employee benefits.
• Interface with the 401(k) recordkeeper and 401(k) consultant.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA or MBA preferred).
• 7+ years of progressive experience in accounting or finance, ideally within a manufacturing, engineering, or project-based environment.
• Experience with ERP systems and project-based financial management.
• Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to partner effectively across departments.
• Experience managing small accounting teams.
• Strong proficiency in Excel and financial reporting tools.

Preferred Attributes

• Experience working in a systems integration, engineering services, or consulting organization.
• Exposure to strategic financial planning, mergers/acquisitions, or capital investment analysis.
• Ability to balance hands-on operational work with high-level financial strategy.
• Experience with Deltek Vantagepoint or Deltek Vision.

Compensation

Target range: $140K+, commensurate with experience.

Applied Control Engineering, Inc. (ACE) provides employees with a comprehensive and attractive benefits package.

For more information about Applied Control Engineering, Inc. (ACE), please visit our website at

ACE is committed to a drug-free workplace. All employment is contingent upon successful completion of drug and background screening.

ACE is an equal opportunity employer. ACE will consider all qualified applicants for employment without discrimination on grounds of disability, sex or sexual orientation, race or national or ethnic origin, age, religion, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need a reasonable accommodation to meet any of the above qualifications, please contact Human Resources.