How to Become a Controller

Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Controller

What does a Controller do?

A Controller leads and directs an organization's accounting functions. Establishes and maintains the organization's overall accounting systems, procedures, and policies. Being a Controller directs all analysis and reporting of financial information including budgets, planning, and required filings and reports. Presents findings and recommendations to management. Additionally, Controller requires a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance. Typically requires the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) credential. Typically reports to chief financial officer (CFO). The Controller manages a business unit, division, or corporate function with major organizational impact. Establishes overall direction and strategic initiatives for the given major function or line of business. Has acquired the business acumen and leadership experience to become a top function or division head.

People's Opinions on Controller responsibilities

A controller is typically the head of the accounting department in an organization.

02/23/2020: Oklahoma City, OK

A controller is more than just a number cruncher or a bean counter.

02/06/2020: Fort Worth, TX

A controller generally works in an office environment.

12/25/2019: Las Cruces, NM

The role of controller or comptroller is a high-level position in finance.

12/05/2019: Bremerton, WA

According to Investopedia, controllers "oversee the accounting operations and financial reporting procedures of government agencies, non-profit organizations and some businesses.".

01/18/2020: Carson City, NV
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Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Controller

Best tips for those who want to become a Controller

Here are some tips to become a Controller.

People's Opinions on best tips

Practise on your controller with no sync or waveforms.

02/24/2020: Charleston, SC

Do the same with another laptop running whatever DJ controller software you can find.

12/06/2019: Petaluma, CA

Lower the sensitivity settings for your controls.

02/11/2020: Lawton, OK

Implementing the Controller Interface.

12/09/2019: Altus, OK

Extending the AbstractController Class.

12/29/2019: Lowell, MA
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Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Controller

Best colleges and universities for Controller

  • Florida Southern College
  • Colby College
  • Dartmouth College
  • University of Notre Dame
  • Western Washington University
  • Canisius College

Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Controller

Is being a Controller Worth it?

People's Opinions on lifestyles

Controller for BOSE SoundTouch SystemeThis widget expanded the operation of BOSE soundtouch systems.Control your system with the notificationcenter or with your apple watch.

02/27/2020: Newport News, VA

Because air traffic controllers are needed twenty-four hours a day (not the same guy for that whole stretch, fortunately), it takes major string pulling to get a decent shift.

02/22/2020: Alexandria, LA

The current radar controller provides a briefing on the live traffic already in the sector; any traffic scheduled is loaded in plastic strips and stacked in the manual man’s bays (the next 30 minutes).

02/07/2020: New London, CT

You punch on the communications access lines (row of instant communication buttons overhead) and announce the change in controller on this sector.

01/04/2020: Boise, ID

You say the controller’s prayer (Serenity) under your breath and hope the computer stays up all shift.

12/31/2019: Springfield, OR
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Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Controller

What skills do you need to be a Controller?

Due to the management level associted with this job, many skills are required to being successful and ensuring the success of your team.  It is necessary to be able to excel with: Accounting Management, Audit Management, Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A).  For management positions, some skills may come as a no brainer, for this role those would be: Accounting Software, Financial Analysis Software.  As you can tell, it is no easy feat to be a manager, and the skills required reflect that.

People's Opinions on Controller skills

The position of air traffic controller is one that requires highly specialized knowledge, skills, and abilities.

01/14/2020: Tallahassee, FL

Air traffic controllers are generally individuals who are well organized, are quick with numeric computations and mathematics, have assertive and firm decision-making skills, are able to maintain their composure under pressure, and possess an excellent short-term memory.

12/03/2019: El Paso, TX

In the United States, for example, all air traffic controllers are required to take and pass a Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory before being hired by the Federal Aviation Administration.

12/24/2019: Nashville, TN

Many countries regulate work hours to ensure that controllers are able to remain focused and effective.

12/19/2019: San Francisco, CA

Certified Public Accountant with more than 8 years experience as Controller for companies in various industries.

12/17/2019: Reading, PA
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Step 6: View average salary for Controller

How much does a Controller make?

The average salary range for a Controller is from $212,664 to $296,634. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.

Salary range for a Controller
$212,664 to $296,634

Step 7: Find relevant Controller jobs, and apply.

Looking for Controller jobs?

Here are some Controller jobs in the United States.

Search Controller Jobs in the United States

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Controller