Assistant Controller

Applied Aerospace & Defense•Long Beach, CA

About The Position

The Assistant Controller supports the Finance Director in managing accounting operations, financial reporting, and government contracting compliance for the Long Beach location. The role focuses on accurate financial reporting, SOX compliance, and adherence to industry standards, requiring analytical skills, attention to detail, and collaboration across departments. Responsibilities cover inventory and cost accounting; program finance and Estimate at Completion (EAC) management; financial reporting and compliance; process and systems improvement; and supervision and development of accounting staff. The position works with Operations, Supply Chain, Business Development, Program Managers, Accounts Receivable, and other teams to support project financial management and reporting. The posting lists a bachelor's degree in Accounting and at least seven years of progressively responsible accounting experience, including three years in a managerial or supervisory role, as required. A later section also lists a minimum of five years of accounting experience and a bachelor's degree in Finance or Accounting. U.S. citizenship or permanent residency is required; employment is contingent on a background investigation, drug screening, and a basic visual acuity examination.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting from an accredited institution; the posting also lists a bachelor's degree in Finance or Accounting.
Extensive knowledge and practical experience in project accounting, particularly revenue recognition.
Minimum of seven years of progressively responsible accounting experience, including at least three years in a managerial or supervisory role; another section lists a minimum of five years of accounting experience.
Strong background in inventory management, cost accounting, and audit support.
Formal training and in-depth experience in cost accounting, financial accounting, local, state, and federal tax regulations, and financial analysis and reporting.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills, with the ability to meet reporting deadlines.
Demonstrated project management skills and ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly and professionally, verbally and in writing, to diverse audiences.
Strong critical-thinking, problem-solving, analytical, evaluative, and decision-making skills, including the ability to assess data and make decisions without complete information.
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work with personnel outside the accounting and finance department.
Expert user of Microsoft Office products.
Legally authorized to work in the United States; U.S. citizenship or permanent residency (Green Card) is required.
Must successfully complete a background investigation, drug screening, and basic visual acuity examination.

Nice To Haves

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation.
Working knowledge of government contracting regulations and requirements, including FAR, DFARS, Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), and DCAA audit requirements.
Experience in a manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

Oversee inventory accounting, including valuation, reconciliation, and reporting.
Maintain and analyze costs, variances, and manufacturing overhead allocations.
Coordinate with Operations and Supply Chain to support accurate inventory tracking, cost control, and project cost management.
Work with Business Development and Program Managers on financial reporting, revenue recognition timing, and project billing.
Understand project schedules, phases, and timelines; review EAC reports for accuracy and alignment with program budgets.
Monitor program financial performance, address concerns with Project Managers, and escalate significant issues to the Finance Director.
Review reconciliations of cost data between project cost ledgers and accounting systems.
Identify outstanding accounts receivable issues and coordinate with Project Managers and Accounts Receivable teams to resolve invoices and support collections.
Participate in project reviews throughout the project lifecycle.
Generate and analyze project financial reports, including billing worksheets, labor detail reports, and unbilled detail reports.
Manage monthly and year-end closing processes, including journal entries and account reconciliation reviews.
Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll functions as needed.
Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP.
Maintain and enhance internal controls, accounting procedures, and financial policies.
Support internal and external audits by providing documentation, responding to inquiries, and assisting with audit resolution.
Ensure compliance with financial reporting standards, internal policies, and SOX requirements.
Identify opportunities to streamline accounting processes, strengthen internal controls, and improve operational efficiency.
Support ERP enhancements, automation initiatives, and process improvement projects.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve financial reporting accuracy and system effectiveness.
Supervise, mentor, and develop accounting staff, ensuring timely and accurate accounting activities and promoting collaboration and continuous improvement.