What Is a Controller? How to Become One, Salary, Skills
Again, the controller may not conduct these duties on their own, but they are responsible for reviewing the work of their employees and using their findings to make final decisions on budgeting matters. However, Earley said the 56 age cut-off only applies to those actively working traffic, so controllers who are not yet ready to retire can take a desk or management job instead. Earley explained the job’s salary, which increases with seniority, plus the benefits provide a good work-life balance. Air traffic controllers are responsible for about 50,000 daily flights in the US, so safety is the most important aspect of the job. While some controllers find the job extremely stressful, Earley said that isn’t the case for him because he enjoys solving a new problem every day.
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The pivotal role of financial controllers in shaping organizational futures cannot be underestimated. Accountant, and Staff Accountant are integral to the accounting landscape. At smaller companies, the controller job description tends to be more broad, as it involves more hands-on bookkeeping, and less management. Smaller companies usually require a controller to perform many or all accounting duties alone, or with the assistance of an accounting clerk or an accounts payable clerk.
As of April 2025, the controller job description and salary in the United States indicate that the average salary is approximately $249,527 per year, with typical ranges spanning from $58,000 to $300,000. Various factors influence these figures, including location, industry, and business size. In the healthcare industry, controller salaries typically range from $110,000 to $140,000 annually.
Typical day as a controller
The role of a controller is a senior-level position in an organization’s accounting and finance department, responsible for overseeing financial reporting, analysis, and planning. As a critical component of the finance team, controllers play a vital role in shaping the company’s financial strategy and direction. One of the most significant factors that influence a controller’s career decisions is their salary. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of controller salaries, exploring the factors that impact earnings, growth potential, and career development.
It all depends on the size of their company and the organization’s unique needs. Many controllers choose to retire early after completing their required 25 years of service, Duffy said, exacerbating the staffing issues. “Everyone is actually able to see what is going on with any particular person’s work at the time, so it is one team, one fight,” he said. “If we notice something is a little out of sorts, we can bring that to the controller’s attention, and they can fix it before it becomes a bigger problem.” Earley also explained that there are redundancies in the job to elevate safety and that other controllers and supervisors help check each other’s work.
- Controllers play a vital role in organizations, overseeing the accounting operations and financial reporting that drive strategic decisions.
- Moreover, almost one-third of employees have departed an organization due to workplace conflict, underscoring the necessity for clarity and alignment in job expectations.
- The specific day-to-day responsibilities of the assistant controller depend on the individual’s level of experience and are at the discretion of the company and senior controller.
- There are approximately 295,295 assistant controllers working in the United States, indicating a competitive market for controller positions.
Corporate Controller: Salary Range
You may consider taking on more responsibility in your current job or asking someone in a more executive role to mentor you. Soft skills can be learned and practiced in any role, such as building relationships, improving communication, teamwork, time management, and resourcefulness. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) doesn’t have a separate category for controllers. But in the current job market, nearly all companies hiring for the controller position want to see at least a bachelor’s degree and preferably a master’s degree, and they also generally want certified public accountants (CPAs). The controller has the final say in most companies on how these records are kept and where they are stored.
A bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance or related fields is expected for almost all controller positions. Having a master’s degree in business administration (MBA) or accounting is often preferred. Great controllers are in tune with their company’s business plan, financial targets, and overall goals.
The salary is good, but the work schedule can be inconsistent
- As controllers gain more hands-on experience and take on greater responsibilities, their salaries tend to increase steadily over time.
- Your earnings as a controller depend on your experience and qualifications.
- It explores current salary trends and market benchmarks, while emphasizing the importance of aligning job descriptions with company culture.
- Depending on the size of the organization, the assistant controller may oversee other members of the team.
- Your ability to thrive in a challenging role will be reflected in how you respond to unexpected company changes.
Larger companies tend to prefer some of that experience be in a large business or corporate environment. In smaller businesses, employers tend to prioritize hands-on experience with all aspects of accounting and finance over managerial skills. In most organizations, controllers hold senior positions and the controller job description comes with a wide and diverse range of responsibilities depending on the company the controller works for. In the non-profit and governmental sector a controller is actually called a “comptroller.” There are some key difference between the roles of controller vs. comptroller.
“I always know what my hours are each day, but it is not always at the same time. It is consistently inconsistent.” The FAA implemented new rules in 2024 to minimize controller fatigue by raising the minimum rest time between shifts from at least nine hours to at least 10 hours. According to Earley, there are several things controllers do to ensure nothing is missed. Initial tests are pass/fail, according to the agency, and failing certain exams will eliminate applicants from what you need to know about controller salaries and jobs the hiring process.
Key Skills
Maintenance of accounting records falls under the purview of the controller. At most companies, the controller has the final say on how these records are kept and where they are stored. The controller oversees all employees involved in the accounting process, including accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, inventory and compliance. This thoughtful approach not only attracts qualified professionals but also cultivates a positive workplace environment that supports long-term success. Seven to ten years of relevant experience in accounting or finance is usually a baseline requirement for any controller position.
Controllers give expert, data-driven advice to executives and managers on how to best take advantage of complex financial information to guide investments and marketing strategies. In smaller companies, controllers have responsibilities similar to that of a CFO in larger corporations. The average salary for a controller in the United States can range from 100,000 to over 250,000 per year, depending on factors such as location, industry, experience, and company size. The full compensation package for a controller depends on a variety of factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s experience and geographic location. The controller is a management position within a company’s finance department.
However, even in smaller markets, starting salaries usually fall within this bracket for controllers fresh out of school or training programs. With the vital leadership controllers provide in accounting, finance and strategic planning, their compensation levels will continue to reflect their pivotal organizational influence. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for a CPA is around $70,000, but your most experienced CPA is likely making more than that. Your controller will be taking on more responsibility and management, so their compensation track should be above this salary range. Controller salary ceiling will likely be at or just under the executive team. The BLS lists executive salaries between $ ,000, depending on the type of role (general, operations, chief).