Controller Shipyard Operations Navy Contracts
Position Summary
The Controller is responsible for overseeing all accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, cost accounting, and compliance functions for a shipyard specializing in U.S. Navy contracts and ship construction/repair programs. This role ensures accurate financial management of government contracts, compliance with FAR/DFARS and DCAA requirements, project cost control, and operational financial support for shipbuilding and marine industrial activities.
The Controller partners closely with Operations, Program Management, Contracts, Estimating, Supply Chain, and Executive Leadership to manage financial performance across multiple vessel construction, maintenance, modernization, and repair projects.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management Reporting
Lead all accounting operations including:
General Accounting
Accounts payable/receivable
Payroll
Fixed assets
Job cost accounting
Financial reporting
Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
Manage month-end and year-end closing processes.
Develop and maintain internal financial controls and accounting policies.
Provide financial analysis and reporting to executive leadership regarding shipyard operations and program profitability.
Government Contract Accounting Compliance
FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulations)
DFARS
CAS (Cost Accounting Standards)
DCAA audit requirements
Oversee accounting and reporting for Navy shipbuilding, repair, and modernization contracts.
Maintain compliant indirect rate structures and oversee incurred cost submissions.
Support DCAA audits, DCMA reviews, and government financial reporting requirements.
Monitor contract funding, billing, and revenue recognition under government contract guidelines.
Ensure proper segregation and allocation of direct and indirect costs.
Manage and oversee:
Cost Plus Accounting
DCAA Accounting
Government contract compliance reporting
Project Job Cost Accounting
Oversee project accounting for ship construction and repair programs.
Monitor labor, material, subcontractor, and overhead costs across multiple contracts.
Analyze contract performance, cost variances, earned value metrics, and budget-to-actual reporting.
Collaborate with Program Managers and Operations leadership to improve cost efficiency and contract profitability.
Support estimate-at-completion (EAC) forecasting and contract financial reviews.
Budgeting Forecasting
Lead annual budgeting and forecasting processes for shipyard operations.
Develop cash flow forecasts and working capital plans for large-scale Navy programs.
Provide financial modeling and analysis for bids, proposals, and strategic initiatives.
Assist leadership with long-range financial planning and capital expenditure analysis.
Leadership Team Management
Supervise accounting and finance staff.
Develop and mentor finance personnel within the shipyard environment.
Coordinate with external auditors, banks, insurance providers, and government representatives.
Promote continuous improvement in accounting systems, ERP utilization, and reporting processes.
Required Qualifications
Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
CPA preferred.
710+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience.
Minimum 5 years of experience in:
Shipbuilding
Ship repair
Government contracting
Defense manufacturing
Strong knowledge of:
Navy contract environments
FAR/DFARS
DCAA compliance
Cost Plus Accounting
General Accounting
Job cost accounting
Experience with ERP systems used in industrial or government contracting environments.
Strong analytical, organizational, and leadership skills.
Advanced Excel and financial modeling capabilities.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience supporting NAVSEA, MSC, or U.S. Navy shipyard programs.
Experience with:
Earned Value Management (EVM)
WIP reporting
Cost-plus and fixed-price government contracts
Familiarity with marine industrial labor environments and union payroll structures.
Experience in drydock operations, vessel construction, or marine fabrication environments.
Key Competencies
Government contract compliance
Cost accounting expertise
Financial leadership
Strategic planning
Operational partnership
Attention to detail
Audit management
Risk assessment
Problem-solving
Communication and leadership
Work Environment
Shipyard and office environment.
May require occasional onboard vessel visits and interaction with production teams.
Ability to work in a fast-paced industrial setting with multiple concurrent Navy programs.
Ameri-Force Benefits
As part of the Ameri-Force team, a recognized ESOP company, you have a personal stake in the collective success of the organization, fostering a collaborative and rewarding work environment. Our competitive benefits package includes:
Industry Leading Pay
Medical Coverage
Dental Coverage
Vision Coverage
Short Term Disability Benefits
Term Life Benefits
Referral Bonuses
*Referral Bonuses are available for specific jobs only
About Ameri-Force
Since 1991, Ameri-Force has been a leader in skilled trades staffing, offering a people-focused approach that provides competitive advantages for our clients and rewarding career opportunities for our contract employees. Leveraging our deep expertise in maritime, manufacturing, aerospace, industrial, and energy sectors, we ensure a seamless experience by efficiently managing federal and state taxes, unemployment, and workers compensation. In addition, we offer a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, and life insurance, tailored to meet the needs of our workforce. Join Ameri-Force and be part of a company that values your success.
Learn more at ameriforce.com
* Note: The specific duties, skills and qualifications may vary depending on the companys requirements and the nature of the tasks performed at the site. Employees must be willing to make reasonable adjustments to their tasks depending on the requirements of the client. We are an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, marital status, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as established by law.
Pay: $38-$58/hr
