Controller Jobs for OPT Students
Controller roles are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in accounting, finance, or a related field. Most positions require CPA progress or licensure, which counts toward STEM OPT extensions at qualifying employers. Hiring timelines often align well with the 12-month OPT window.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
We are looking for a skilled Controller to join our team in Galesburg, Michigan. This role requires a highly organized and detail-oriented individual to oversee financial operations and ensure compliance with accounting standards. You will play a key role in maintaining accurate financial records, supporting executive leadership, and contributing to the success of our manufacturing operations.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Oversee and manage all financial reporting processes, ensuring compliance with GAAP standards.
- Utilize a major ERP system to organize, analyze, and report critical financial data.
- Lead efforts in document control and scanning to maintain accurate and accessible records.
- Compile and review documentation to support financial audits and operational decision-making.
- Provide strategic financial guidance to executive leadership to drive business growth.
- Monitor and analyze manufacturing costs to improve efficiency and profitability.
- Ensure timely preparation and submission of financial reports and statements.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline financial workflows.
- Identify and implement process improvements within document management and reporting systems.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Proven experience in a controllership role within the manufacturing industry.
- Expertise in GAAP accounting principles and financial reporting.
- Proficiency in using major ERP systems for financial management.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to guide and influence executive teams.
- Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Ability to analyze complex financial data and provide actionable insights.
- Familiarity with document control processes, including scanning and compiling records.
- Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
BENEFITS
Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles. Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.
Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan.
All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
© 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking “Apply Now,” you’re agreeing to Robert Half’s Terms of Use and Privacy Notice.
INTRODUCTION
We are looking for a skilled Controller to join our team in Galesburg, Michigan. This role requires a highly organized and detail-oriented individual to oversee financial operations and ensure compliance with accounting standards. You will play a key role in maintaining accurate financial records, supporting executive leadership, and contributing to the success of our manufacturing operations.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Oversee and manage all financial reporting processes, ensuring compliance with GAAP standards.
- Utilize a major ERP system to organize, analyze, and report critical financial data.
- Lead efforts in document control and scanning to maintain accurate and accessible records.
- Compile and review documentation to support financial audits and operational decision-making.
- Provide strategic financial guidance to executive leadership to drive business growth.
- Monitor and analyze manufacturing costs to improve efficiency and profitability.
- Ensure timely preparation and submission of financial reports and statements.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to streamline financial workflows.
- Identify and implement process improvements within document management and reporting systems.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Proven experience in a controllership role within the manufacturing industry.
- Expertise in GAAP accounting principles and financial reporting.
- Proficiency in using major ERP systems for financial management.
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to guide and influence executive teams.
- Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Ability to analyze complex financial data and provide actionable insights.
- Familiarity with document control processes, including scanning and compiling records.
- Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.
BENEFITS
Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles. Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.
Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan.
All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
© 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking “Apply Now,” you’re agreeing to Robert Half’s Terms of Use and Privacy Notice.
How to Get Visa Sponsorship in Controller
Target companies with established accounting teams
Larger organizations with dedicated finance departments are more familiar with OPT work authorization than small businesses. Mid-size and enterprise employers routinely hire international accounting professionals and understand CPT, OPT, and EAD documentation requirements.
Highlight your CPA progress upfront
Many Controller roles require or strongly prefer CPA candidates. If you're actively pursuing licensure, say so in your resume and cover letter. Employers see CPA progress as a signal of long-term commitment, which eases concerns about authorization timelines.
Prioritize STEM-designated accounting programs
If your degree is from a STEM-classified accounting or finance program, you may qualify for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. This gives employers a three-year window, significantly improving your chances of securing H-1B sponsorship before your authorization expires.
Focus on industries with high H-1B filing rates
Financial services, healthcare systems, manufacturing, and technology companies consistently file H-1B petitions for accounting and finance roles. Targeting these industries increases the likelihood that your Controller employer already has an immigration attorney on retainer.
Demonstrate close collaboration with legal and compliance teams
Controllers who work across departments, including legal and compliance, show employers they understand regulatory complexity. This cross-functional experience signals adaptability and reduces perceived risk when employers consider sponsoring international hires for senior finance positions.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Controller on F-1 OPT?
Yes. A Controller role qualifies for F-1 OPT as long as it's directly related to your degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Your EAD card serves as proof of work authorization. If your degree program has a STEM designation, you may also qualify for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving you up to three years of total OPT work authorization.
Do Controller employers typically sponsor H-1B visas?
Many do, particularly in financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. Controller is a specialty occupation under H-1B standards because it typically requires at minimum a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance. Employers who already have outside immigration counsel are the most reliable sponsors. Browse Controller roles on Migrate Mate to find employers with documented sponsorship track records.
Does a Controller role qualify for a STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your degree, not the job title. If your accounting or finance program holds a STEM CIP code designation, you can apply for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, provided you're working at an E-Verify registered employer. Many Controller positions at larger companies qualify. Confirm your program's CIP code with your DSO before applying for roles where the extension is essential to your sponsorship timeline.
How early should I start applying for Controller jobs on OPT?
Start at least 90 days before your OPT start date. Controllers are senior hires, and the interview and offer process often takes four to eight weeks. Many employers need additional time to verify OPT documentation internally or consult legal counsel. Starting early also gives you room to request an OPT start date that aligns with the role's onboarding schedule.
What documents do I need to present when starting a Controller job on OPT?
You'll complete Form I-9 on your first day. Bring your EAD card, valid passport, and F-1 visa. Your employer is also required to enroll in E-Verify if they sponsor your STEM OPT extension. Keep a copy of your I-20 with OPT authorization on file. If you change employers during STEM OPT, your DSO must update your SEVIS record within 10 days of the change.
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