As of August 01, 2026, the average salary for a Controller Trainee in Salem, VA is $144,063 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $69.
However, a Controller Trainee's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Controller Trainee's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, skills and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 6.12% |
| Financial Reporting | 3.12% |
| Generally Accepted Accounting Principles | 1.06% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Technical Accounting
|
$154,148 |
7%
|
|
Accountability
|
$152,707 |
6%
|
|
Process Improvement
|
$149,826 |
4%
|
|
Financial Management
|
$148,385 |
3%
|
|
Finance and Accounting
|
$148,385 |
3%
|
|
Initiative
|
$148,385 |
3%
|
For Controller Trainee roles, the industry you choose can affect earning potential by as much as 100% (the gap between the highest and lowest paying industries). Data shows that the Financial Services and Aerospace & Defense sectors offer the strongest compensation, at 50% above the average. In contrast, Controller Trainee positions in Retail & Wholesale or Transportation typically offer lower base pay, as these industries often view Controller Trainee as a support function rather than a direct revenue driver.
| Industry Sector | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Rate | Pay vs.Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Financial Services | $216,095 | $104.0 | 50% |
Understanding how a Controller Trainee's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on August 01, 2026Ready to take the next step in your career? Browse thousands of current Controller Trainee job openings on our job board. Use the search bar below to find your perfect match.
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