Government Accountant

USA Rare Earth, LLC

23d•$145,000 - $160,000

About The Position

The Government Accountant will oversee the company’s accounting operations with a strong focus on government-funded programs, including federal loans, grants, equity investments, and related compliance requirements. This role will serve as the primary owner of government funding accounting and reporting initiatives and will lead tracking, compliance, audit preparation, and financial reporting associated with these programs. This is a highly visible role in a fast-growing manufacturing organization and requires a senior-level professional who is flexible, proactive, and comfortable operating in a startup-style environment where priorities evolve quickly. The ideal candidate brings prior experience managing government funding programs end-to-end and thrives in a hands-on, problem-solving role.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
5+ years of progressive accounting experience with hands-on experience managing government funding, grants, or government contracts.
Strong knowledge of US GAAP and government funding compliance requirements.
Experience preparing government financial reports, reimbursement requests, and supporting audits.
Proven ability to work independently, solve problems, and lead initiatives with minimal supervision.
Proficiency with accounting systems/ERPs and Excel.

Nice To Haves

CPA strongly preferred.
Prior experience in a manufacturing environment.
Experience working with federal funding programs (DOE or similar).
Experience with Microsoft Business Central or similar ERP systems.
Background in a startup or high-growth company environment.

Responsibilities

Manage day-to-day accounting operations including general ledger, month-end and year-end close, account reconciliations, and financial statement preparation.
Ensure financial records are maintained in accordance with US GAAP and company policies.
Review and approve journal entries, accruals, and adjustments.
Prepare internal financial reports and analyses for leadership.
Lead accounting, reporting, and compliance for government-funded programs including federal loans, grants, equity investments, and related contracts.
Serve as the primary owner of government funding initiatives from implementation through ongoing compliance and audit readiness.
Track allowable vs. unallowable costs and ensure proper cost allocation across programs, cost centers, and funding sources.
Prepare and review grant budgets, reimbursement requests, invoices, and financial reports required by funding agencies.
Act as the primary accounting contact for government audits, site visits, and compliance reviews.
Develop and manage processes to track expenses and ensure audit-ready documentation for funding programs.
Design, implement, and maintain strong internal controls related to government funding and overall accounting operations.
Develop and document accounting policies and procedures specific to government-funded activities.
Ensure compliance with audit requirements and proper segregation of duties.
Utilize accounting systems and ERPs (Microsoft Business Central preferred) to support tracking and reporting needs.
Lead and support external audits including government, grant, and financial statement audits.
Coordinate with external auditors, federal auditors, and consultants to respond to inquiries and resolve findings.
Support tax compliance and reporting as it relates to government-funded activities.
Partner closely with finance leadership, operations, and program managers to ensure financial alignment with program objectives.
Provide guidance and training to internal stakeholders on government funding compliance and best practices.
Demonstrate flexibility by supporting evolving business needs in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.