Controller

DEFCON AI • McLean, VA

5d • $170,000 - $220,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

DEFCON AI is an insights company that uses artificial intelligence, mathematical optimization, data analytics, and software engineering to support resilient optimization of complex systems. The Controller will own accounting, financial close, compliance, and reporting for a fast-growing defense technology company serving Department of War and commercial customers. This hands-on leadership role reports directly to the CFO and is responsible for building scalable accounting processes, strengthening internal controls, and leading a small accounting team as the company grows.

The role operates in a hybrid capacity from the McLean, Virginia office, requiring at least one day per week onsite or more as business needs require. Some work may need to be performed in a cleared facility. The Controller will ensure accurate monthly closes, audit-ready financials, and a government contract accounting environment prepared for DCAA and DCMA review.

Requirements

• Active CPA license.
• At least 10 years of progressive accounting experience, including ownership of the financial close and management of an accounting team.
• Experience with or strong knowledge of U.S. government contracting requirements, including FAR, DFARS, DCAA audits, indirect rates, and incurred cost submissions.
• Strong technical accounting skills and command of U.S. GAAP, including ASC 606.
• Experience leading annual audits and working directly with external auditors.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a closely related field.
• Active U.S. security clearance, or ability to obtain and maintain one.
• U.S. citizenship.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree in Accounting, including an MAcc or MSA.
• Public accounting experience, ideally with audit or government contracting advisory exposure.
• Experience in a venture-backed or high-growth defense technology company.
• Hands-on experience with government contracting ERP systems such as Deltek Costpoint, Unanet, or Procas.
• Experience supporting both government and commercial revenue streams.

Responsibilities

• Own monthly, quarterly, and year-end financial close under U.S. GAAP.
• Prepare financial statements, account reconciliations, and management reporting for the CFO, CEO, and Board of Directors.
• Manage revenue recognition under ASC 606 across firm-fixed-price, time-and-materials, cost-reimbursable, and commercial contracts.
• Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll accounting, fixed assets, and equity and stock compensation accounting.
• Maintain a DCAA-compliant accounting system, timekeeping process, and job-cost structure.
• Develop and manage indirect rate structures, including fringe, overhead, general and administrative rates, and provisional billing rates.
• Prepare incurred cost submissions, forward pricing support, and pricing inputs for proposals.
• Ensure compliance with FAR Part 31 cost principles, applicable Cost Accounting Standards, and DFARS business system requirements.
• Serve as the primary contact for DCAA and DCMA audits and reviews.
• Support SBIR Phase III and other contract vehicles, including appropriate segregation of unallowable costs.
• Lead the annual external financial statement audit from planning through final sign-off, including PBC requests and supporting schedules.
• Serve as the primary day-to-day contact for external auditors throughout the year.
• Research complex transactions and prepare technical accounting position memos related to ASC 606, ASC 718, ASC 842, debt, and equity financings.
• Coordinate with external tax advisors on federal and state filings.
• Design and maintain internal controls, accounting policies, and procedures appropriate for a growing company.
• Partner with FP&A on budgets, forecasts, cash flow planning, and contract profitability analysis.
• Own accounting and ERP systems and drive process automation as the company scales.
• Work with Contracts, Program Management, Human Resources, and Security teams to support business operations and compliance.
• Hire, develop, and manage the accounting team.
• Establish clear ownership, operating rhythms, and quality standards across the accounting function.

Benefits

• Competitive salary, bonus, and equity package.
• 100% employer-paid comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance for the employee and family.
• Unlimited PTO, with manager approval.
• Flexible, results-based work environment and flexibility to manage the workday while meeting business and team needs.
• 14 weeks of fully paid parental leave.

What This Job Offers

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