Search jobs now Find the right job type for you Create a job alert Explore how we help job seekers Contract talent Permanent talent Learn how we work with you Executive search Finance and Accounting Technology Marketing and Creative Legal Administrative and Customer Support Technology Risk, Audit and Compliance Finance and Accounting Digital, Marketing and Customer Experience Legal Operations Human Resources 2026 Salary Guide Demand for Skilled Talent Report Job Market Outlook Press Room Tech insights Labor market overview AI in recruiting Navigating the AI era Staffing for small businesses Cost of a bad hire Browse jobs Find your next hire Our locations
Controller
We are looking for an experienced Controller to lead the accounting function and provide strong financial oversight for our Santa Barbara, California team. This role partners closely with senior leaders to strengthen financial planning, support business goals, and deliver accurate reporting that informs decision-making. The ideal candidate brings deep accounting expertise, a collaborative leadership style, and a commitment to improving processes and team performance.<br><br>Responsibilities:<br>• Provide day-to-day leadership for accounting operations across project accounting, payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and collections while fostering a high-performing team environment.<br>• Partner with principals, sector leaders, and executive management to align financial activities with organizational priorities and long-term business objectives.<br>• Direct the preparation and oversight of annual budgets, financial plans, and supporting models used to guide operational and strategic decisions.<br>• Oversee the monthly and annual close process, ensuring financial statements are completed accurately, on schedule, and in accordance with reporting standards.<br>• Monitor liquidity by evaluating cash position, preparing forecasts, and identifying trends that may affect short- and long-term financial performance.<br>• Identify opportunities to enhance systems, workflows, and internal controls through ongoing analysis, research, and adoption of effective best practices.<br>• Produce financial insights and analyses that help leadership assess performance, manage risk, and make informed business decisions.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance is required.<br>• At least 10 years of progressive experience in accounting and finance, including approximately 5 to 6 years serving in a Controller capacity.<br>• Hands-on experience with project accounting is required.<br>• Proven success in coaching, developing, and leading strong accounting teams.<br>• Strong analytical, leadership, and communication skills with the ability to work effectively across departments.<br>• Advanced proficiency in financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, cash flow analysis, month-end close, and Microsoft Excel.<br>• Experience with Unanet is preferred.<br>• Background in architecture, engineering, surveying, landscape architecture, planning, or prevailing wage environments is considered a strong advantage.
<p>Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.</p> <p>Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. <a href="https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-app" target="_blank">Download the Robert Half app</a> and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.</p> <p>All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit <a href="https://roberthalf.gobenefits.net/" target="_blank">roberthalf.gobenefits.net</a> for more information.</p> <p>© 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking “Apply Now,” you’re agreeing to Robert Half’s <a href="https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/terms">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/privacy">Privacy Notice</a>.</p>
  • San Luis Obispo, CA
  • onsite
  • Permanent / Full Time
  • 120000 - 150000 USD / Yearly
  • We are looking for an experienced Controller to lead the accounting function and provide strong financial oversight for our Santa Barbara, California team. This role partners closely with senior leaders to strengthen financial planning, support business goals, and deliver accurate reporting that informs decision-making. The ideal candidate brings deep accounting expertise, a collaborative leadership style, and a commitment to improving processes and team performance.<br><br>Responsibilities:<br>• Provide day-to-day leadership for accounting operations across project accounting, payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and collections while fostering a high-performing team environment.<br>• Partner with principals, sector leaders, and executive management to align financial activities with organizational priorities and long-term business objectives.<br>• Direct the preparation and oversight of annual budgets, financial plans, and supporting models used to guide operational and strategic decisions.<br>• Oversee the monthly and annual close process, ensuring financial statements are completed accurately, on schedule, and in accordance with reporting standards.<br>• Monitor liquidity by evaluating cash position, preparing forecasts, and identifying trends that may affect short- and long-term financial performance.<br>• Identify opportunities to enhance systems, workflows, and internal controls through ongoing analysis, research, and adoption of effective best practices.<br>• Produce financial insights and analyses that help leadership assess performance, manage risk, and make informed business decisions.
  • 2026-07-31T00:00:00Z

Controller Job in San Luis Obispo, CA | Robert Half