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Salary

How much does a Controller make?

The average salary for a Controller is $113,260 per year in the US.

A Controller plays a key role in managing a company's finances. This position demands expertise in accounting and financial reporting. As a result, it often leads to a rewarding salary. The average yearly salary for a Controller stands at about $113,260. This figure can change based on factors like experience, location, and industry.

Different levels of experience lead to various salary ranges. For example, an entry-level Controller might earn around $40,255. As experience grows, so does the salary. At the highest level, a Controller can earn up to $204,738 per year. These numbers reflect the value companies place on effective financial management.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Controller?

Job seekers seeking top pay for Controller positions should focus on cities like San Jose, CA, where salaries average around $153,449. The San Francisco area also offers high salaries, with an average of about $151,064. Salinas, CA, offers competitive salaries, with an average of roughly $148,450. Candidates should also consider Reno, NV, where salaries average around $142,457. Los Angeles, CA, offers an average salary of $141,075, making it another option to consider. Boston, MA, provides competitive salaries, averaging about $136,660. New Haven, CT, offers salaries around $136,156, and Bakersfield, CA, offers an average of $135,703. Modesto, CA, offers about $134,965, while Chicago, IL, offers salaries around $132,266.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Controller jobs, highlighting San Jose, CA with the highest at $153,449 and Chicago, IL with the lowest at $132,266.
  1. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $153,449
    Working as a financial manager in San Jose offers great opportunities. The tech hub attracts many companies. Professionals here enjoy a dynamic environment and competitive salaries.
    Find Controller jobs in San Jose, CA


  2. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $151,064
    In San Francisco, financial managers often work in major corporations. The city’s economy thrives on tech and finance. It provides a bustling atmosphere and diverse job options.
    Find Controller jobs in San Francisco, CA


  3. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $148,450
    Salinas offers a mix of agriculture and tech industries. Financial managers here find opportunities in both sectors. The city's smaller size provides a close-knit community feel.
    Find Controller jobs in Salinas, CA


  4. Reno, NV
    Average Salary: $142,457
    Reno provides a unique setting with mountains and entertainment. Financial managers enjoy a growing economy. The city’s diverse industries offer various job opportunities.
    Find Controller jobs in Reno, NV


  5. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $141,075
    Los Angeles offers a vibrant job market for financial managers. The entertainment industry and tech companies create many opportunities. Professionals here enjoy a lively and diverse environment.
    Find Controller jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  6. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $136,660
    Boston is known for its rich history and education. Financial managers here often work in finance and healthcare. The city offers a blend of tradition and innovation.
    Find Controller jobs in Boston, MA


  7. New Haven, CT
    Average Salary: $136,156
    New Haven provides a quieter, yet vibrant scene. Financial managers often work in education and healthcare. The city's charm and community feel make it a great place to work.
    Find Controller jobs in New Haven, CT


  8. Bakersfield, CA
    Average Salary: $135,703
    Bakersfield offers a growing economy with opportunities in oil, agriculture, and tech. Financial managers here enjoy a stable job market. The city's warm climate adds to the appeal.
    Find Controller jobs in Bakersfield, CA


  9. Modesto, CA
    Average Salary: $134,965
    Modesto is known for its agriculture and growing tech industry. Financial managers find steady job opportunities. The city's family-friendly environment makes it a pleasant place to live and work.
    Find Controller jobs in Modesto, CA


  10. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $132,266
    Chicago offers a bustling job market for financial managers. The city’s diverse industries include finance, manufacturing, and healthcare. Professionals here enjoy a dynamic and competitive environment.
    Find Controller jobs in Chicago, IL

What are the best companies a Controller can work for?

Daley And Associates, LLC leads the way in offering high salaries for Controller positions, providing a competitive package that stands out. Next, Ledgent Finance & Accounting and ghj present impressive compensations, making them attractive options for job seekers. Lastly, LeoForce, Thomas Edwards Group, and Gilbane also offer competitive salaries for those looking to advance in the Controller field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Controller jobs, highlighting Daley And Associates, LLC with the highest at $198,125 and Logical Position with the lowest at $153,750.
  1. Daley And Associates, LLC
    Average Salary: $198,125
    Daley And Associates, LLC offers exciting Controller roles. They provide a dynamic work environment and are known for their excellent benefits. The company operates in various cities across the country.


  2. Ledgent Finance & Accounting
    Average Salary: $170,774
    Ledgent Finance & Accounting has a strong reputation for Controller jobs. Employees enjoy a supportive team and career growth opportunities. The company has offices in many major cities.


  3. ghj
    Average Salary: $166,692
    At ghj, Controllers handle important financial tasks. The company values teamwork and offers great training programs. They have offices in multiple cities and regions.


  4. LeoForce
    Average Salary: $161,773
    LeoForce provides rewarding Controller positions. They focus on employee satisfaction and career development. The company operates in many cities with a friendly atmosphere.


  5. Thomas Edwards Group
    Average Salary: $161,667
    Thomas Edwards Group offers excellent Controller roles. They emphasize a positive work culture and provide extensive training. The company is located in various major cities.


  6. Gilbane
    Average Salary: $160,158
    Gilbane is known for its well-paying Controller jobs. They offer a competitive salary and benefits. The company has offices in several key locations.


  7. Cherry Bekaert
    Average Salary: $155,294
    Cherry Bekaert provides promising Controller positions. Employees enjoy a collaborative environment and growth opportunities. The company operates in many important cities.


  8. Precision CastParts
    Average Salary: $155,164
    Precision CastParts offers rewarding Controller roles. They focus on employee well-being and professional development. The company has a presence in several key locations.


  9. American Medical Associates
    Average Salary: $154,318
    American Medical Associates provides good Controller opportunities. Employees benefit from a supportive team and growth potential. The company operates in many important regions.


  10. Logical Position
    Average Salary: $153,750
    Logical Position offers attractive Controller positions. They emphasize a positive work culture and offer good career growth. The company is based in several major cities.

How to earn more as a Controller?

A Controller plays a key role in managing a company's finances. This position involves overseeing accounting, budgeting, and financial reporting. It is a role that often commands a good salary, but there are ways to earn even more. Improving skills and gaining more experience can lead to higher earning potential. A Controller can boost their salary by focusing on certain key areas.

An effective Controller must have a deep understanding of financial regulations and best practices. Attending workshops and earning relevant certifications can enhance skills. These certifications demonstrate a commitment to the field and can make a Controller more valuable to employers. Being knowledgeable about the latest financial software and tools also helps. Continuous learning and skill development open up opportunities for higher-paying jobs. Networking with other professionals in the industry can lead to job openings that offer higher salaries.

Here are five factors that can help a Controller earn more:

  1. Certifications: Earning certifications like CPA or CMA can increase earning potential.
  2. Education: Pursuing advanced degrees can lead to higher-paying positions.
  3. Experience: Gaining experience in different industries can make a Controller more versatile and valuable.
  4. Skills: Developing skills in financial software and tools can enhance job performance.
  5. Networking: Building a professional network can lead to new job opportunities and higher salaries.

Currently 2,086 Controller job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Controller in the US?

Learn what a Controller does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Controller today.
Position
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Controller
2,086 Job Openings