Project Controller
JOB TITLE: Project Controller
COMPANY: Chase Merritt
LOCATION: Hybrid (in-office with remote flexibility)
SALARY RANGE: $110,000 – $140,000 annually (based on experience)
EMPLOYMENT TYPE: Part-Time or Full-Time (flexible based on candidate availability and business needs)
JOB SUMMARY
Chase Merritt is seeking an experienced and hands-on Project Controller to oversee accounting and financial operations for the company’s real estate development and construction activities. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate financial reporting, strong internal controls, and effective financial processes across project and corporate operations. The Project Controller partners closely with ownership, development, and construction teams to support informed decision-making and scalable growth. This position also provides direct oversight and leadership to the Project Accountant and the Office Manager & HR Coordinator. The role may be structured as either part-time or full-time depending on experience and business needs.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
ACCOUNTING & FINANCIAL OPERATIONS
Oversee day-to-day accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll coordination
Ensure timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and year-end financial close processes
Prepare and review financial statements, reports, and analyses for leadership and ownership
Maintain and enforce accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls
Ensure compliance with GAAP and applicable regulatory requirements
PROJECT & DEVELOPMENT ACCOUNTING
Oversee project accounting for real estate development and construction projects
Directly manage and support the Project Accountant
Review project budgets, job cost reports, and financial forecasts
Support lender and investor reporting, including draw packages and supporting schedules
Partner with Construction Owner’s Representatives and development leadership to ensure accurate cost tracking and capitalization
Monitor cash flow, funding sources, and project-level financial performance
LEADERSHIP & TEAM MANAGEMENT
Provide direct supervision, mentorship, and performance management for the Project Accountant and Office Manager & HR Coordinator
Establish clear workflows, priorities, and accountability across accounting and administrative functions
Support hiring, onboarding, and development of finance and administrative team members
Serve as a key financial and operational partner to company leadership
HUMAN RESOURCES, ADMINISTRATION & SYSTEMS OVERSIGHT
Oversee payroll, benefits administration, and HR systems in coordination with the Office Manager & HR Coordinator
Ensure proper onboarding, employee documentation, and HR compliance processes
Maintain and optimize accounting, payroll, and financial systems (e.g., Gusto, ADP, Yardi, Sage, NetSuite, or similar)
Coordinate with external CPAs, tax advisors, auditors, legal counsel, and lenders
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
7+ years of progressive accounting experience, including leadership responsibility
Experience in real estate development, construction, or project-based accounting
Strong knowledge of GAAP, job cost accounting, and capitalization principles
Proven experience overseeing month-end close, financial reporting, and internal controls
Experience managing and developing accounting or administrative staff
Proficiency with accounting and financial systems and advanced Excel skills
Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
High level of integrity and discretion
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
CPA or CMA designation
Experience supporting lender and investor reporting
Experience working with or overseeing outsourced HR, payroll, or PEO providers
Experience scaling accounting systems and processes in a growing organization
REPORTING & WORK ENVIRONMENT
Reports to: Managing Partner / Ownership
Work Arrangement: Hybrid (in-office with remote flexibility)
Direct Reports: Project Accountant; Administrative Assistant
Works closely with: Development, Construction, Accounting, Office Operations, and External Advisors