Accounting Manager-Assistant Controller

Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc. • San Luis Obispo, CA

2d • $100,000 - $130,000 • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking an accomplished Accounting Manager/ Assistant Controller to join our high-performing Corporate Accounting team. Reporting to the Controller, this position will support accounting operations, financial reporting, internal controls, and process improvement initiatives within a fast-paced aerospace and defense manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical accounting expertise, operational leadership capabilities, and experience operating within a publicly traded company environment. This individual will partner cross-functionally with Finance, Operations, Program Management, Supply Chain, IT, and executive leadership to support scalable growth, operational excellence, and financial integrity across the organization.

Requirements

• 12+ years of progressive corporate accounting and ERP implementation experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field is required.
• CPA designation or MBA preferred.
• Strong technical knowledge of U.S. GAAP, SOX, and government contract accounting (FAR/CAS).
• Significant experience with Oracle NetSuite or similar ERP platforms.
• Strong understanding of core finance and accounting processes.
• Experience in SEC publicly traded company environment.
• Proven project management skills.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of industry best practices and regulatory requirements.
• Must meet ITAR requirements: U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder), or protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
• Must be able to pass background check and drug test.

Nice To Haves

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical, time management and organizational skills.
• Strong computer skills and proficiency with office software and productivity tools.
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
• Works well with little or no supervision and exercises independent judgement on a regular basis.
• Strong ability to gain cooperation of others, conducting presentations of technical information concerning specific projects or schedules.

Responsibilities

• Support the Controller in overseeing day-to-day accounting operations, financial reporting, and month-end close activities to ensure timely and accurate financial results.
• Support the planning, execution, and optimization of Oracle NetSuite ERP implementation initiatives with a focus on accounting, finance, and reporting processes.
• Development and maintenance of program financial plans including budgets and Estimate-At-Completes (EACs) to meet contractual/project requirements for assigned programs.
• Support technical accounting activities, including ASC 606 revenue recognition.
• Partner with cross-functional leadership teams to drive process improvements, strengthen internal controls, and enhance financial systems integration across the organization.
• Collaborate with finance, accounting, and operational stakeholders to gather business requirements and translate them into functional specifications for Oracle NetSuite and related financial reporting applications.
• Assist in managing month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes, including account reconciliations, consolidations, variance analysis, and financial statement preparation.
• Support internal and external audit activities by maintaining documentation, coordinating audit requests, and ensuring compliance with established controls and accounting standards.
• Lead post-implementation evaluations and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance system scalability, operational efficiency, and financial reporting capabilities.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, cash flow analysis, and management reporting initiatives as needed.
• Support post-merger and acquisition integration efforts, including financial consolidation, systems integration, accounting policy alignment, and internal control standardization.
• Mentor and support accounting staff while fostering a culture of accountability, process improvement, and operational excellence.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Benefits

• Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families.
• 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day off.
• $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families.
• Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage.
• Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses.
• 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future.
• 9 paid holidays throughout the year.
• A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager