Financial Controller

Agile Robots • Palo Alto, CA

16h

About The Position

Agile Robots is a global leader in industrial and humanoid robotics, integrating advanced machine learning and robotic vision to redefine the future of work. Headquartered in Munich with a global workforce of 2,500+, we are now establishing our North American footprint. This is a rare opportunity to join as a foundational member of our US team, shaping the financial operations and infrastructure of our Silicon Valley Headquarters.
The Role: At Agile Robots, we are deploying the next generation of AI-enabled automation and Physical AI. As our Financial Controller in the US, you will be a key member of our founding team, responsible for establishing and scaling our finance and accounting operations. We are seeking a Financial Controller to oversee all accounting, financial reporting, and compliance functions for our U.S. operations in the robotics and intelligent manufacturing industry. This role will serve as a strategic finance partner to leadership, ensuring accurate financial data, supporting operational efficiency, and driving scalability across a fast-growing, innovation-driven organization. The ideal candidate combines deep technical accounting expertise with strong operational insight and a passion for technology, automation, and advanced manufacturing.

Requirements

• Master's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business; CPA or CMA preferred.
• 7–12 years of progressive accounting and finance experience; experience in robotics, tech, or manufacturing is a plus.
• Deep knowledge of U.S. GAAP, management and cost accounting, and intercompany transactions.
• Proven experience managing multi-entity or international consolidations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities; experience with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, etc.).
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, leadership skills and experience in team setup.

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting both hardware and software revenue models (e.g., robotics systems + SaaS).
• Experience in fast-scaling tech or robotics startups. Familiarity with robotics, AI, or advanced manufacturing is highly desirable.
• Data-driven mindset - proficiency in Excel, Power BI, or other analytics tools.
• Understanding IFRS for coordination with global HQ is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Financial Management & Reporting
• Lead all accounting operations, including general ledger, AP/AR, payroll, cost accounting, inventory valuation, and revenue recognition.
• Ensure accurate and timely preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in compliance with U.S. GAAP.
• Oversee consolidation of financial data between U.S. and global entities to ensure accurate group reporting.
• Manage cash flow, working capital, and liquidity planning; optimize treasury and banking operations.
• Management Accounting
• Develop and maintain a robust cost accounting framework suitable for an R&D-intensive, low-volume manufacturing environment, including prototype builds, pilot runs, and small-batch production.
• Design cost models that capture the full lifecycle of robotics system development - from design, prototyping, and testing to limited production and customer deployment.
• Partner closely with engineering and R&D teams to ensure accurate project cost tracking, allocation of direct and indirect costs, and capitalization of eligible R&D expenses in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
• Implement methods to differentiate between R&D, engineering validation, and production expenses, enabling precise reporting of development investment versus cost of goods sold.
• Monitor and analyze prototype material usage, tooling costs, and engineering labor, ensuring transparency between finance and technical teams.
• Support the development of standard costing for new robotic modules, sensors, and assemblies as they transition from prototype to production readiness.
• Continuously evaluate inventory valuation and obsolescence risk, particularly for fast-evolving components and custom builds.
• Compliance & Internal Controls
• Establish and enforce strong internal control systems and policies for the U.S. entity.
• Ensure compliance with SOX, GAAP, federal/state tax laws, and corporate governance requirements.
• Lead annual audit and tax filings in collaboration with external advisors.
• Strategic Planning & Analysis
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and multi-year financial planning aligned with global corporate goals.
• Provide financial insights to guide investment decisions in R&D, production facilities, and supply chain optimization.
• Partner with operations, R&D, and sales teams to align financial objectives with strategic growth initiatives.
• Collaborate with global finance to standardize project accounting policies across entities, ensuring consistency in cost capitalization, depreciation, and internal charge-out models.
• Systems & Process Improvement
• Drive automation and digitalization of financial processes to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Lead or support ERP implementations or integrations across the US entity.
• Standardize financial processes and reporting between global subsidiaries.
• Leadership
• Build, mentor, and manage a high-performing accounting and finance team.
• Serve as a bridge between local U.S. operations and global finance teams in Europe and Asia.
• Contribute to a culture of accountability, innovation, and collaboration.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision insurance, and 401k.
• Generous paid time off and paid holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning in cutting-edge robotics technology.

What This Job Offers

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