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How Much Do Accounting Controller Make?

How much do accounting controller make? Discover the average salary, base salary, and compensation for accounting controller in the accounting & finance category. Learn about accounting controller pay per hour, per week, per month, and per annum with detailed salary ranges from $60,000 to $110,000.

Base Salary (avg)
$115,000
Per Hour
$55/hr
Avg Bonus
$15,000
Job Outlook
10.32%
Experience
5 yrs

How Much Do Accounting Controller Make? Complete Salary Guide

How much do accounting controller make? This is one of the most common questions in career planning. Accounting Controller in the Accounting & Finance field can expect to earn an average salary of $115,000 per year, with entry-level positions starting at $60,000 and experienced professionals earning up to $110,000 annually.

When breaking down the average salary of accounting controller by time periods, accounting controller typically make around $9,583.333 per month and approximately $2,211.538 per week. The basic salary of accounting controller varies significantly based on experience level, location, and industry specialization. Entry-level accounting controller typically start with a base salary of $60,000, while mid-career professionals earn an average of $95,000, and senior-level roles can command salaries exceeding $110,000.

The salary landscape for accounting controller is influenced by several key factors including geographic location, years of experience, educational background, and specific industry demands. How much do accounting controller make in a week? On average, this translates to approximately $2,211.538 per week. How much do accounting controller make per annum? The annual salary range spans from $60,000 to $150,000, with the median salary sitting at $115,000. Additionally, many accounting controller receive bonuses averaging $15,000 annually, representing approximately 15.25% of their base salary.

How Much Do Accounting Controller Get Paid Per Annum? Accounting Controller Salary

Annual salary data for accounting controller across different experience levels, showing entry-level, mid-career, and experienced professional compensation ranges based on industry standards.

Entry Level Annual Salary

$60,000
Range: $60,000 - $80,000

Mid-Career Annual Salary

$95,000
Range: $90,000 - $120,000

Experienced Annual Salary

$110,000
Range: $100,000 - $150,000

How Much Do Accounting Controller Get Paid in a Month? Accounting Controller Monthly Salary

Monthly salary breakdowns for accounting controller at different career stages, providing practical budgeting insights and compensation expectations for financial planning.

Entry Level Monthly Salary

$5,000
per month

Mid-Career Monthly Salary

$7,917
per month

Experienced Monthly Salary

$9,167
per month

How Much Do Accounting Controller Get Paid in Different Locations?

Geographic salary variations for accounting controller across different cities and regions, including cost of living adjustments and regional market demand factors that impact compensation.

Austin
$80,000
Range: $55,000 - $110,000
Remote
$75,000
Range: $50,000 - $100,000
Seattle
$85,000
Range: $65,000 - $115,000
New York
$90,000
Range: $60,000 - $120,000
San Francisco
$95,000
Range: $70,000 - $130,000

Accounting Controller Salary Trends

Historical salary progression for accounting controller over the past years, showing year-over-year compensation growth and market trends in the industry.

Accounting Controller Salary Trends (2020 - 2025)

Bonus & Compensation Package

Additional compensation beyond base salary, including bonuses, commissions, and overtime opportunities that contribute to total annual earnings.

Bonus Percentage

15.25%

of annual salary

Bonuses for Accounting Controllers are typically based on company performance, individual goals, and financial metrics, incentivizing accuracy and efficiency.

Average Bonus

$15,000

annually

Commission

An Accounting Controller role generally does not include commission; however, performance bonuses or incentives may be offered based on company profitability and individual performance.

Overtime

Overtime pay for Accounting Controllers is uncommon, as many are salaried employees exempt from overtime regulations, focusing instead on meeting deadlines and managing financial reporting.

Employee Benefits Package

Comprehensive benefits and perks provided to employees, including health coverage, retirement plans, time off policies, and professional development opportunities.

Comprehensive Benefits

Typical benefits for an Accounting Controller include health insurance, 401(k) retirement plans with employer matching, paid time off (PTO), flexible work arrangements, professional development opportunities, performance bonuses, and life insurance.

Health Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plans
Development

Accounting Controller Job Overview

Comprehensive details about the accounting controller role including daily responsibilities, work environment, physical demands, and key tasks that define this career path.

About This Role

An Accounting Controller oversees financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance within an organization. They ensure accurate financial statements, manage accounting teams, and implement internal controls. By analyzing financial data, they provide strategic insights to support decision-making and drive organizational growth while ensuring adherence to regulatory standards and best practices.

Primary Responsibilities

Financial reporting, budget management, forecasting, compliance oversight, internal controls implementation, financial analysis, team leadership and development, audit coordination, cash flow management, strategic planning.

Day-to-Day Tasks

An Accounting Controller typically oversees financial reporting, manages budgets, ensures compliance with regulations, analyzes financial data, coordinates audits, supervises accounting staff, and collaborates with other departments for strategic planning.

Work Environment

Hybrid

Accounting Controllers typically work in office environments, often at desks, utilizing computers and software to manage financial data and reports.

Physical Demands

Moderate

The Accounting Controller typically works in an office environment, requiring prolonged sitting, computer use, attention to detail, and occasional overtime during financial reporting periods.

Accounting Controller Requirements & Prerequisites

Essential qualifications and credentials needed to pursue a career as a accounting controller, including educational background, certifications, and experience requirements.

Education

Bachelor’s degree.

Field: Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Economics, Management Accounting, Auditing, Taxation, Financial Analysis.

Experience

5 years

Employers seek candidates with extensive financial management experience, strong analytical skills, proficiency in accounting software, leadership abilities, and a proven track record in compliance and financial reporting.

Certifications

CPA, CMA, CFA, CIA, CIMA, CGMA, MBA in Accounting or Finance, Certified Internal Auditor.

Required Skills

Financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, compliance knowledge, leadership skills, attention to detail, communication skills, problem-solving.

Technical Skills

Financial ReportingBudgetingForecastingTax ComplianceAudit CoordinationCost AccountingRegulatory Knowledge

Soft Skills

CommunicationAttention to DetailProblem SolvingTime ManagementAnalytical ThinkingTeam Collaboration

Accounting Controller Career Path

Professional progression opportunities for accounting controller from entry-level to senior management, including typical career advancement timeline and role evolution.

Entry Level

Positions:

Staff Accountant, Junior Accountant, Accounting Analyst

Early-career Accounting Controllers manage financial reporting, oversee accounting processes, ensure compliance, analyze financial data, and support budgeting to enhance organizational fiscal health.

Mid-Career

Positions:

Senior Accountant, Accounting Manager, Financial Analyst

Mid-career Accounting Controllers oversee financial reporting, budgeting, compliance, team management, internal controls, and strategic planning to ensure accurate financial operations and support organizational goals.

Senior Management

Positions:

Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Vice President of Finance, Director of Financial Reporting

Senior Accounting Controllers oversee financial reporting, budgeting, compliance, and internal controls while managing teams to ensure accurate financial data and strategic decision-making for the organization.

Career Progression Timeline

Timeline: 10 years

An Accounting Controller typically advances from roles such as staff accountant to senior accountant, then to management positions like financial manager or CFO, reflecting increased responsibility. Continuous professional development and certifications enhance career prospects.

Accounting Controller Industry & Growth

Market outlook and growth prospects for accounting controller, including industry trends, job market demand, and factors influencing career opportunities and advancement.

Job Outlook

10.32% Growth

Stable

Projected: 2024–2034

Industry Trends

Automation of financial processes, increased demand for data analytics skills, emphasis on compliance and regulatory changes.

Growth Factors

Rising regulatory requirements, complex financial landscapes, increased focus on data analytics, demand for strategic decision-making, and the need for enhanced financial transparency.

Future Opportunities

Blockchain integration, AI-driven analytics, remote work solutions, sustainability reporting, and fintech innovations are creating new opportunities for Accounting Controllers in the evolving financial landscape.

Accounting Controller Related Professions

Alternative career paths and similar roles for accounting controller, including career transitions, related positions, and advancement opportunities within the field.

Similar Roles

Financial AnalystAccounting ManagerBudget AnalystInternal Auditor

Career Alternatives

Financial AnalystBudget CoordinatorCompliance ManagerTax ConsultantInternal Auditor

Upgrade Paths

Finance DirectorChief Financial OfficerVice President of Finance

Related Entry Roles

AccountantFinancial AnalystAccounting Clerk

Accounting Controller Skills & Development

Essential skills and professional development resources for accounting controller, including technical abilities, soft skills, recommended courses, and ongoing learning opportunities.

Technical Skills

Financial ReportingBudgetingForecastingTax ComplianceRegulatory KnowledgeAudit CoordinationCash Flow ManagementAccounting Software

Soft Skills Needed

CommunicationAttention to DetailProblem-SolvingTime ManagementTeam Collaboration

Recommended Certifications

Certified Management AccountantCertified Public AccountantChartered Global Management Accountant

Recommended Courses

Accounting Controller CertificationFinancial Management for ControllersAdvanced Financial Reporting

Development Resources

LinkedIn LearningCourseraedXCPA Academy

Training Timeline

6-12months

Estimated training time

Frequently Asked Questions About Accounting Controller Salary

Common questions and answers about pursuing a career as a accounting controller, covering qualifications, salary expectations, career prospects, and practical career guidance.

What qualifications are needed to become an Accounting Controller?

Typically, a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance, along with relevant certifications like CPA or CMA.

What is the average salary of an Accounting Controller?

The average salary ranges from $90,000 to $150,000 per year, depending on experience and location.

What skills are essential for an Accounting Controller?

Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, leadership abilities, and proficiency in accounting software.

What career advancement opportunities exist for Accounting Controllers?

They can advance to positions such as CFO or senior financial manager within organizations.

Is a master’s degree necessary for becoming an Accounting Controller?

While not mandatory, a master’s degree can enhance job prospects and potential salary.

How Much Others Make?

Explore salary data for other professions to compare compensation across different career paths and industries.

Important Disclaimer

Salary information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. Actual salaries may vary based on location, experience, education, industry, company size, and other factors. We strive to provide accurate data, but cannot guarantee the completeness or accuracy of all information. Please verify with official sources before making career decisions.