Explore This Path

Controller

💰 Earn $131K-$239K

📚 Bachelor Degree

⏱️ 24–48 Month Training

📈 14.8% Job Growth

Ideal for those passionate about strategic financial management and growth.
Drive organizational success through expert financial planning and investment.
Collaborate with top financial institutions to optimize fiscal operations.

What Controllers DoDirect financial activities, such as planning, procurement, and investments for all or part of an organization.

Evaluate needs for procurement of funds and investment of surpluses and make appropriate recommendations.
Delegate authority for the receipt, disbursement, banking, protection, and custody of funds, securities, and financial instruments.
Develop and maintain relationships with banking, insurance, and external accounting personnel to facilitate financial activities.
Monitor financial activities and details, such as cash flow and reserve levels, to ensure that all legal and regulatory requirements are met.
Receive, record, and authorize requests for disbursements in accordance with company policies and procedures.

Controllers Education, Salary, and Growth

Minimum EducationBachelor Degree

Career ProspectsExcellent (Increasing by 5% or more)

Training Time2 to 4 years

Job Openings74,600 Annually

Median Earnings

$174,920 in California

$161,700 Nationally

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Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.

Is This Career Right For You?

YOU Like

Influencing or leading others
Using data or completing tasks

you value

Accomplishing things
Having freedom
Job security

you are skilled in

Speaking
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Writing
Judgment and Decision Making
Quality Control Analysis

Go Deeper: Controllers Explained

ControllerExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years

Professional UpskillingProfessional upskilling typically results in acquiring new or enhanced skills and knowledge relevant to a participant's current job or desired career path, leading to improved job performance, opportunities for career advancement, and greater employability.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 1 week - 3 months

Technology BootcampA technology bootcamp typically offers intensive training in specific tech skills, preparing participants for entry-level roles in the tech industry in a relatively short period of time.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in Less than a year

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What Is the Business & Finance Industry?