Controller

Overview

A defense technology organization is seeking a Controller to bring order to a fast-paced and evolving environment. This role involves traditional accounting responsibilities as well as building scalable finance processes and workflows to support organizational growth. The Controller will report to the Head of Finance.

Responsibilities

• Lead the migration from QuickBooks to a modern AI-first ERP system (such as DualEntry, Rillet, Campfire, or similar), with plans to add an inventory management system around 2027
• Develop automations and AI-native workflows for month-end close, accounts payable, accounts receivable, expense management, and financial reporting to replace manual processes and improve data accuracy
• Define which workflows belong within finance versus other business functions, especially in a fast-growing startup context
• Own the month-end close process, financial reporting, audit, tax planning, and compliance
• Manage accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, general ledger, and travel & expense functions, initially with one direct report
• Ensure timeliness, accuracy, and audit readiness across all accounting functions
• Collaborate with the Head of Finance to design and implement product- and customer-level cost accounting to inform product investment, pricing, and sales/engineering strategies
• Provide thought partnership on business-relevant reporting to support strategic and operational decisions
• Assist with investor communications and translate financial information for non-finance leaders

Requirements

• CPA certification plus a bachelor's degree or higher in Accounting or Finance
• Minimum 8 years of accounting experience, including some time as a Controller
• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and financial reporting standards; experience auditing at a Big 4 firm
• Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Experience building automations, ideally incorporating AI, without relying solely on IT or vendors
• Demonstrated ability to quickly master new, complex business domains such as modern ERPs, AI-first tools, cost accounting, government compliance, and manufacturing
• Pragmatic approach suitable for startup environments: detail-oriented without imposing unnecessary processes
• Must be a U.S. Person and clearance eligible

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading foundational system migrations (ERP, inventory management, billing) in a startup environment; migration to AI-first ERP is a plus
• Hands-on experience with modern ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, Sage Intacct, DualEntry, Rillet, Campfire), with ability to maximize business value
• Knowledge of manufacturing and inventory accounting (anticipated organizational focus in 2027)
• Deep expertise in cost accounting, including cost allocation, customer profitability, and R&D economics
• Familiarity with government cost accounting standards, including CAS/DCAA requirements
• Experience supporting institutional investor relations and due diligence
• Strong communication skills with non-finance partners such as product, engineering, and go-to-market teams

Nice to Have

• SaaS or software accounting experience
• Experience in GovTech or defense industries
• Experience in pre-IPO scale-up companies

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Remote-friendly work environment with access to WeWork locations
• Unlimited paid time off, shared downtime aligned with federal holidays, and company-wide time off at year-end
• 401(k) matching program
• Lifestyle and wellbeing stipends
• Salary top-up during military reserve duty
• Fully paid parental leave
• Child and pet care reimbursement during travel

Location

Remote-friendly; U.S. Person and clearance eligibility required

This role offers the opportunity to lead critical finance system modernization and build scalable processes in a mission-driven, fast-growing environment. Candidates passionate about finance, technology, and operational excellence are encouraged to apply.