Controller

Overview

The organization is seeking a Controller to lead accounting operations, financial reporting, equity compensation accounting, monthly close processes, internal controls, and audit readiness. This role manages day-to-day accounting activities and builds the systems, processes, and team needed to support continued growth.

Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Accounting Operations

• Own the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close process.
• Maintain accurate books and records in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
• Prepare and review monthly financial statements, including:
  • Balance Sheet
  • Income Statement
  • Statement of Cash Flows
  • Management reporting packages
• Ensure timely completion of account reconciliations and supporting schedules.
• Manage the general ledger and chart of accounts.
• Oversee cash management activities and financial reporting compliance.
• Review accounting transactions for proper classification and GAAP treatment.

Accounting Team Leadership

• Supervise and mentor the Senior Accountant.
• Oversee Accounts Payable operations and related workflows.
• Review journal entries, reconciliations, and accounting work prepared by staff.
• Establish performance expectations and best practices for the accounting function.
• Assist with future hiring and development of accounting personnel as the organization grows.

QuickBooks Administration & Systems Improvement

• Serve as the primary owner and administrator of QuickBooks.
• Improve accounting workflows, reporting structures, and close procedures.
• Evaluate and implement process improvements that increase efficiency and scalability.
• Assess future ERP requirements and support system migration planning as needed.
• Maintain documentation of accounting policies, procedures, and workflows.

Equity Compensation & Corporate Accounting

• Administer and reconcile stock option and equity compensation records.
• Maintain coordination between Carta and the general ledger.
• Record stock-based compensation expense in accordance with ASC 718.
• Coordinate and support 409A valuation processes.
• Assist management with equity-related reporting and future financing activities.
• Support capitalization table maintenance and equity transaction accounting.

Audit, Tax & Compliance

• Prepare audit-ready financial statements and supporting workpapers.
• Coordinate annual audits, reviews, and other assurance engagements.
• Partner with external auditors, tax advisors, legal counsel, and valuation specialists.
• Support federal, state, and local tax filings.
• Ensure compliance with accounting policies and internal control requirements.

Internal Controls & Process Development

• Evaluate existing accounting processes and identify control gaps.
• Design and implement scalable internal controls.
• Improve approval workflows and financial governance procedures.
• Establish documented accounting policies and closing procedures.
• Deliver recommendations for enhancing operational efficiency and financial reporting quality.

Strategic Support

• Partner with executive leadership on budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning.
• Support fundraising activities, investor due diligence requests, and strategic initiatives.
• Assist in the preparation of Board and investor reporting packages.
• Contribute to building a finance organization capable of supporting rapid growth.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance.
• CPA strongly preferred.
• 8+ years of progressive accounting experience.
• Prior experience as a Controller, Assistant Controller, or Accounting Manager.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP.
• Advanced QuickBooks experience.
• Experience managing month-end and year-end close processes.
• Experience supervising accounting personnel.
• Strong Excel and financial reporting skills.
• Exceptional analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to operate independently and thrive in a dynamic startup environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in venture-backed technology, semiconductor, hardware, software, AI, or high-growth companies.
• Experience preparing companies for financial statement audits.
• Experience with startup scaling and implementation of accounting controls.
• Experience with Carta or other equity management platforms.
• Experience with:
  • ASC 718 stock-based compensation accounting
  • 409A valuations
  • Equity incentive plans
  • Investor reporting
  • Fundraising due diligence
• Familiarity with future ERP implementations and finance system upgrades.

Compensation & Benefits

• Compensation Range (California): $180,000–$220,000 per year (anticipated base pay; final offer may vary based on qualifications, experience, and location)
• Medical, Dental, & Vision — 100% covered premiums
• Equity — Stock Options
• 401(k) match
• WFH Hardware

Location

Sunnyvale, CA

Additional Information

• This role does not currently support sponsorship.