Overview

Controller Direct Hire Onsite Jacksonville, FL Vaco Staffing is partnering with a growing, family-owned transportation and logistics organization in Jacksonville, FL, to identify an experienced Controller / Controller-in-Waiting who can grow into the company's top accounting leadership role. This is a unique opportunity for a hands-on accounting leader to join a well-established organization, work alongside the current Controller during a planned transition, and ultimately assume responsibility for the company's accounting and financial operations. The ideal candidate is someone who has strong technical accounting experience, has progressed through roles such as Accounting Manager or Assistant Controller, and is ready to take the next step-or an experienced Controller who enjoys being hands-on and working closely with operations and leadership. This role is fully onsite and requires someone who is willing to learn the business from the ground up. The successful candidate will spend time understanding the company's customers, freight operations, carriers, purchasing, and day-to-day business before assuming the full scope of the Controller's responsibilities. What You'll Do Accounting & Financial Operations Oversee and support day-to-day accounting operations, including AP, AR, GL, reconciliations, and full-cycle accounting Review and maintain balance sheet, cash, loan, prepaid, deposit, merchant services, COGS, tax accrual, and other accounting accounts Prepare, review, and analyze monthly and annual financial statements Ensure financial reporting is accurate, timely, and compliant with GAAP Support accounting for multiple entities, locations, and business operations Assist with budgeting, forecasting, cash management, and financial planning Identify opportunities to improve accounting processes, controls, and reporting Audit, Tax & Compliance Coordinate with external auditors during annual audits Prepare audit schedules, supporting documentation, and financial information Support tax reporting and tax-related schedules Maintain appropriate internal controls and financial procedures Assist with fraud prevention and financial risk management Leadership & Team Development Provide leadership, mentorship, and support to the accounting team Help oversee accounting functions and team members across AP, AR, payroll, and related areas Serve as a resource and backup for members of the accounting department Build a service-oriented, accountable, and collaborative accounting culture Participate as a member of the company's leadership team and contribute to strategic business decisions Technology & Process Improvement Serve as a key accounting resource for ERP, reporting, and financial technology initiatives Help optimize the company's accounting systems and reporting processes Partner with IT and other departments on system implementations, integrations, and process improvements Learn and become proficient in proprietary systems and technology Leverage data and reporting tools to improve visibility and decision-making Learn the Business This position requires more than traditional accounting knowledge. The successful candidate will be expected to roll up their sleeves and learn the company's operation. During the transition period, you will: Learn the company's customers and service model Gain an understanding of transportation and freight operations Work with carriers and operational teams Understand the company's purchasing and payment processes Learn how revenue is generated and how costs flow through the business Develop a comprehensive understanding of the operation before assuming the Controller role What We're Looking For Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field 7+ years of progressive accounting and financial management experience Experience as an Assistant Controller, Accounting Manager, Controller, or similar leadership-level accounting role Strong understanding of full-cycle accounting, including AP, AR, and