Corporate Controller

Hermeus•Los Angeles, CA

35d•$240,000 - $300,000

About The Position

Hermeus is a high-speed aircraft manufacturer focused on the rapid design, build, and test of high-Mach and hypersonic aircraft for the national interest. Working directly with the Department of Defense, Hermeus delivers capabilities that will ensure that our nation, and our allies, maintain an asymmetric advantage over any and all potential adversaries. We are seeking an experienced Corporate Controller to lead our accounting, compliance, and financial operations in a rapidly scaling defense technology startup. The ideal candidate has deep familiarity with FAR/DFARS, government contracting compliance, and cost accounting in both R&D and production environments. This individual will establish and refine the financial control framework that supports complex program lifecyclesâfrom prototype development through low-rate initial production and full-rate manufacturing

Requirements

Bachelorâs degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA required.
10+ years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 3 years in a government contracting or defense environment.
Strong working knowledge of FAR/DFARS, CAS, and DCAA compliance requirements.
Experience supporting both development (R&D) and production programs, ideally in aerospace, defense, or advanced manufacturing.
Expertise in proposal pricing, cost buildup, and audit-ready documentation.
Proven ability to implement scalable financial systems (ERP) and internal controls in a fast-paced environment.
Exceptional communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
Startup experience or the ability to operate effectively in a dynamic, high-growth environment preferred.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Earned Value Management (EVM), program cost tracking, or government billing systems.
Exposure to hybrid commercial/defense revenue models (e.g., dual-use technology).
Prior experience in scaling from prototype to production environments.

Responsibilities

Lead the accounting and compliance function, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with GAAP, FAR/DFARS, and internal control standards.
Oversee cost accounting and indirect rate structures, maintaining compliance with CAS and DCAA audit requirements.
Own the month-end close and financial reporting process, including preparation of financial statements, program-level reporting, and management dashboards.
Support proposal pricing and cost volume development, working closely with program management and business development to build compliant, competitive bids.
Design and implement accounting systems, policies, and procedures to support both development programs and production contracts.
Coordinate audits and reviews, including DCAA, financial statement, and internal controls audits.
Partner cross-functionally with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and contracts to align operational performance with financial outcomes.
Manage treasury, insurance, and tax relationships, ensuring adequate liquidity and risk coverage as the company scales.
Develop, mentor, and grow a high-performing accounting team capable of supporting the companyâs rapid growth and government contracting complexity.