Controller

Location: Modesto, CA (On-site) | Full-Time

Send your resume to careers@originalsurvey.com

About Us

Original Survey Solutions (OSS) is a fast-growing professional services firm supporting some of the largest and most complex construction projects in the western United States, including hospitals, data centers, and advanced manufacturing facilities for microchips and batteries.

Headquartered in Modesto, California, we provide a full suite of services spanning land surveying, civil engineering, and architectural owner’s representation. While surveying expertise remains a cornerstone, our civil engineering practice has expanded significantly, and we are building new service lines to deliver integrated solutions for our clients.

At OSS, we thrive on growth and innovation. We are continuously expanding our capabilities to meet the evolving needs of builders, developers, and engineers while creating opportunities for our team members to lead, learn, and shape the future of the built environment.

About the Role

OSS is seeking a hands-on, strategic Controller to lead our accounting and finance operations. Reporting directly to the CEO, this role oversees all core financial functions, including AP/AR, payroll, reporting, and compliance, while driving improvements in systems, processes, and controls.

The Controller will provide timely, accurate insights that guide executive decision-making, support long-term planning, and ensure a strong financial foundation as OSS expands its service lines. This role also includes leading an upcoming ERP implementation, building out the finance team, and developing best practices that position OSS for continued success.

This is an opportunity for a financial leader who enjoys both rolling up their sleeves in day-to-day accounting and contributing strategically at the leadership table.

What You’ll Do

  • Lead all core accounting functions (AP/AR, general ledger, payroll, financial reporting) with accuracy and timeliness.

  • Own the month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring strong internal controls and compliance with GAAP and tax obligations.

  • Deliver clear financial insights through dashboards, variance analysis, and KPI tracking that inform leadership decisions.

  • Partner with the CEO and leadership team on budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning to support OSS’s growth.

  • Recruit, mentor, and develop accounting staff; build the finance function to scale with the company.

  • Spearhead the selection and implementation of a new ERP system (Deltek, Unanet, or similar) to improve efficiency and data visibility.

  • Coordinate annual audits and act as a liaison with external auditors and advisors.

  • Identify and implement process improvements, automation, and best practices to strengthen financial operations.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline; CPA or CMA strongly preferred.

  • 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 2 years in a Controller or senior finance leadership role.

  • Proven expertise with QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise and a strong track record of leading system or ERP transitions.

  • Deep knowledge of GAAP, internal controls, and compliance requirements.

  • Strong Excel skills and comfort with data analysis, financial modeling, and KPI reporting.

  • Experience in construction, engineering, architecture, or related industries strongly preferred; familiarity with project-based accounting is a plus.

  • Demonstrated ability to lead teams, mentor staff, and build scalable processes in a growing organization.

What You Bring

  • A strong command of GAAP, financial controls, and best practices in corporate accounting.

  • Advanced analytical and Excel skills, with the ability to turn data into actionable insights.

  • Clear, confident communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with executives, project managers, and technical teams.

  • A leadership style that blends hands-on problem solving with strategic thinking, inspiring confidence and growth in others.

  • A proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with the adaptability to thrive in a fast-paced, growing, multidisciplinary company.

Perks & Benefits

  • Competitive salary range: $131,040–$189,280, with performance-based bonus opportunities.

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance to support you and your family.

  • Retirement plan with company contributions to help you invest in your future.

  • Flexible, unstructured PTO policy designed to support work-life balance.

  • Continuing education and professional development support (CPA/CMA renewals, leadership training, industry conferences).

  • The chance to work on high-profile, large-scale construction projects such as hospitals, data centers, and advanced manufacturing facilities, where your contributions have visible, lasting impact.

  • A collaborative, fast-growing company culture that offers room to expand your role and influence as OSS broadens its services.

Physical Demands

This position is primarily office-based with extended periods of computer work. Occasional lifting (up to 15 lbs.) and routine activities such as standing, walking, bending, and reaching are required. Effective verbal and written communication, along with the ability to read and work from a computer screen, are essential.

OSS provides reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.

Equal Opportunity Employer

OSS is proud to be an Equal Opportunity workplace. We welcome and encourage applicants of all backgrounds and experiences. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business need, without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, veteran status, or any other legally protected status.