Finance & Accounting
An assistant controller supports the controller by running the close, reviewing reconciliations and managing the accounting staff. The role keeps financial reporting accurate and on schedule, and often acts as the controller’s deputy for audits and policy.
Median pay
$166,570a year
Financial managers, U.S. BLS, May 2025
The role
Companies hire one when the controller is stretched across close, reporting and projects, or when the accounting team has grown beyond one person’s direct oversight.
Typical responsibilities
Core skills
Tools and systems
Related titles
Typical background
Generally seven or more years in accounting with supervisory experience; a bachelor's degree and CPA license are common requirements.
At a glance
The essentials for planning the hire: level, background, how you can hire and what the role typically pays.
Request talent
Share a few details and a finance and accounting recruiter will be in touch. There is no obligation and no cost to talk.
What happens next
Request talent
Takes about two minutes. A specialist recruiter will call you back within one business day.
By submitting, you agree that RUS Recruiting may contact you about this request. Read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
Send your resume once and a finance and accounting recruiter will match you to assistant controller roles that fit your experience, pay expectations and the way you want to work. We only put you forward for roles you have said yes to, and it is always free.
FAQ
Straight answers to the questions employers and candidates ask about this role.
Still have a question?
Talk to a recruiter about your role or your search. We reply within one business day.
An assistant controller supports the controller by running the close, reviewing reconciliations and managing the accounting staff. The role keeps financial reporting accurate and on schedule, and often acts as the controller’s deputy for audits and policy. Typical responsibilities include: manage the month-end close calendar and review journal entries; review account reconciliations prepared by staff accountants; prepare consolidated financial statements for management review.
Look for month-end close, GAAP reporting, financial statement preparation, account reconciliations, internal controls and team supervision. Experience with NetSuite, Sage Intacct, SAP, Workiva and Excel is common in this role.
Yes. Employers hire an assistant controller on contract for projects, peak periods and cover, and contract-to-hire is a good way to confirm fit before a permanent offer. For long-term needs, most choose full-time placement.
The titles overlap. An assistant controller usually has a clearer path to controller and often owns reporting and audit relationships. An accounting manager may focus more on running the team and the close. Define the duties first, then match the title.
Many employers require it, especially in audited or public companies. For private companies with simpler reporting, strong close experience and team leadership can matter more. State the license requirement clearly so candidates can self-screen.
Related roles
Every role in the practice is recruited by the same specialist team.
