Finance Manager

Katalyst Space Technologies•Flagstaff, AZ

3h•$140,000 - $170,000

About The Position

We build robotic spacecraft that enable dynamic space operations, creating a future where maneuvering, upgrading, refueling, and exploration are as routine as they are on Earth. Getting to space and overcoming the gravity well is only half the story. What you do there is the future. We are not building the trains. We are building the machines that lay down the tracks. By developing the foundational capabilities that make sustained, responsive operations possible, we enable a new era of space activity that strengthens national security and ensures freedom of action in an increasingly contested domain. Working at Katalyst is intense, hands-on, and deeply rewarding. You’ll take real ownership and see your work move from concept to operations in an environment where the problems are hard and the impact is real. We value humility, craftsmanship, and doing things the right way, even when it’s harder. You’ll work closely with thoughtful, driven teammates who push each other to do their best. What You’ll Do General Accounting & Controllership Own the general ledger, chart of accounts, and monthly close process Oversee AP/AR, cash management, and account reconciliations, including coordination with third-party bookkeeping partners as needed Ensure financial statements are GAAP-compliant, accurate, and consistently audit-read Cost Accounting & Compliance Help design and scale cost accounting systems and processes aligned with GAAP, aerospace cost accounting standards, contract cost principles, and DoD / FAA requirements Perform monthly program variance analysis (materials, labor, overhead) and partner with program teams to address gaps and corrective actions Prepare for and support external audits Support indirect rate development and government cost reporting requirements Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner closely with operations, program management, and engineering to implement scalable procurement and financial systems Train and mentor internal stakeholders on cost accounting best practices and compliance requirements Support fundraising efforts and ongoing investor reporting What We’re Looking For You have meticulous attention to detail and enjoy producing financial and cost data that stands up to scrutiny You like owning the numbers end-to-end and understand how they impact programs, contracts, and business decisions You enjoy digging into cost structures and variances and turning them into clear, useful insights for leadership and program teams You’re comfortable working in ambiguity and building frameworks, systems, and processes as the organization grows and matures You enjoy working closely with engineering, operations, and program teams and helping finance enable execution Your Ideal Background 5+ years of experience in cost accounting, controllership, or a related finance role within a manufacturing environment You’ve worked in aerospace, defense, or another regulated hardware industry (strongly preferred) You’ve had exposure to: Government contracts (cost-type and/or T&M) DCAA audits or audit preparation Scaling companies moving from startup scrappiness to formal compliance You have experience partnering closely with engineering, operations, and program management teams You have proficiency in Excel and experience building and implementing financial and accounting systems and tools Additional Requirements: Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed.

Requirements

5+ years of experience in cost accounting, controllership, or a related finance role within a manufacturing environment
You have meticulous attention to detail and enjoy producing financial and cost data that stands up to scrutiny
You like owning the numbers end-to-end and understand how they impact programs, contracts, and business decisions
You enjoy digging into cost structures and variances and turning them into clear, useful insights for leadership and program teams
You’re comfortable working in ambiguity and building frameworks, systems, and processes as the organization grows and matures
You enjoy working closely with engineering, operations, and program teams and helping finance enable execution
You have experience partnering closely with engineering, operations, and program management teams
You have proficiency in Excel and experience building and implementing financial and accounting systems and tools
Must be willing to work extended hours and weekends as needed.

Nice To Haves

You’ve worked in aerospace, defense, or another regulated hardware industry (strongly preferred)
You’ve had exposure to: Government contracts (cost-type and/or T&M) DCAA audits or audit preparation Scaling companies moving from startup scrappiness to formal compliance

Responsibilities

Own the general ledger, chart of accounts, and monthly close process
Oversee AP/AR, cash management, and account reconciliations, including coordination with third-party bookkeeping partners as needed
Ensure financial statements are GAAP-compliant, accurate, and consistently audit-read
Help design and scale cost accounting systems and processes aligned with GAAP, aerospace cost accounting standards, contract cost principles, and DoD / FAA requirements
Perform monthly program variance analysis (materials, labor, overhead) and partner with program teams to address gaps and corrective actions
Prepare for and support external audits
Support indirect rate development and government cost reporting requirements
Partner closely with operations, program management, and engineering to implement scalable procurement and financial systems
Train and mentor internal stakeholders on cost accounting best practices and compliance requirements
Support fundraising efforts and ongoing investor reporting