Controller

Shift5 is redefining the future of onboard operational technology (OT). As a fast-growing scale-up, we specialize in cutting-edge cybersecurity, predictive maintenance, and compliance for OT systems across defense, aerospace, and rail. We are a team of passionate, innovative professionals who thrive in a collaborative environment, driven by a shared mission to revolutionize how fleets operate. By unlocking and democratizing the vast potential of onboard OT data, we help our customers’ fleets run smarter, safer, and more efficiently. Ready to be part of the next frontier in transportation and critical infrastructure? Come join us.

Our Values:

• Mission First Mindset: We exist to protect the service members who defend our nation and secure the critical systems that keep our economy moving.
• Relentless Innovation: We are motivated by the challenge of solving the toughest problems facing transportation and defense industries.
• Data Driven Decisions: We make decisions rooted in data. Giving our team and stakeholders a more informed perspective possible when lives and missions are on the line.

Reporting to the VP of Finance, the Controller will be a key leader responsible for building and scaling a best-in-class accounting function. This isn't just about closing the books; it's about building the financial infrastructure, processes, and controls that will enable Shift5 to scale efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of financial integrity. You will be a trusted business partner to leadership, providing the data and insights necessary for strategic decision-making. If you are a seasoned accounting professional who thrives on building, improving, and leading in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment, this role is for you.

We're looking for someone who will:

• Own the Core Accounting Function: Lead all accounting operations including general ledger, A/R, A/P, inventory, fixed assets, payroll, and the monthly/quarterly/yearly financial close process, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with US GAAP. The Controller is a hands-on leader who not only oversees accounting operations, but also actively participates in key accounting activities, including reconciliations, journal entries, and month-end close tasks.
• Scale Systems Processes: Drive continuous process improvement across the accounting function. Partner with the Financial Reporting function to lead the optimization of NetSuite and other financial systems to build a scalable and efficient financial technology stack.
• Develop and Maintain Internal Controls: Design, implement, and maintain a robust internal control environment that safeguards company assets and ensures financial data integrity as the company grows in complexity. Develop and enforce accounting policies and procedures to ensure consistent, efficient, and compliant operations.
• Manage Financial Reporting: Prepare and present accurate and timely financial statements and reports for senior leadership, the Board of Directors, and external stakeholders (investors, lenders).
• Oversee Complex Revenue and Project Accounting: Manage revenue recognition and project-based accounting across a diverse portfolio of commercial and government customers, ensuring proper cost allocation and compliance with contractual terms.
• Equity and Stock Administration: Manage all aspects of equity and stock administration, including option grants, exercises, cancellations, repurchases, and vesting. Prepare all equity accounting/reporting and financial disclosures/footnotes related to equity compensation. Partner with HR and Legal to ensure proper documentation and compliance with plan rules, board approvals, and securities regulations.
• Serve as a Strategic Partner: Collaborate closely with the FPA team to ensure data integrity for budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis. Partner with Operations, Legal, and Contracts teams to ensure financial and contractual alignment.
• Lead Audits and Compliance: Serve as the primary point of contact for external auditors, managing the annual financial audit process through audit report issuance. Oversee tax compliance in partnership with external advisors and other regulatory reporting.
• Mentor and Develop the Team: Build and lead a high-performing accounting team, fostering a culture of accuracy, accountability, collaboration and continuous improvement. Develop team members’ technical and professional skills through coaching, feedback and training.

You're a great fit if you have:

• A Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• An active CPA license is highly preferred.
• Deep technical knowledge of accounting, financial reporting, and internal control frameworks.
• A proven track record of scaling accounting functions, including developing policies, implementing systems, and improving processes from the ground up.
• Demonstrated ability to operate both strategically and tactically, thinking big picture as well as being comfortable rolling up sleeves to execute detailed accounting work.
• Hands-on experience with ERP systems, with NetSuite experience being a significant plus. Experience with equity management platforms (Carta or equivalent).
• Excellent leadership and team management skills with the ability to mentor and develop staff.
• Exceptional analytical skills, strong organizational abilities, impeccable attention to detail, and a commitment to financial integrity.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain complex financial concepts to both financial and non-financial stakeholders.
• Deep experience within a private venture-capital (VC) or private-equity (PE) backed company is required. Understand the pace, reporting requirements, and strategic mindset of a high-growth, investor-backed business.
• Strong understanding of US GAAP, including, but not limited to, ASC 606 for Revenue Recognition, ASC 718 for Stock-Based Compensation, and ASC 350-40 for Capitalization of Internal-Use Software.
• Experience in inventory management is a plus, but not required.
• Familiarity with U.S. Government contract accounting (e.g., FAR) is a plus, but not required.

Compensation Benefits: 

• Base Salary: $180,000-$235,000
• Bonus program and equity in a fast-growing startup
• Competitive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their families
• Health Savings Account with annual employer contributions
• Employer-paid Life and Disability Insurance
• Uncapped paid time off policy 
• Flexible work remote work policy 
• Tax-deferred public transit benefits with Metro SmartBenefits (DC/MD/VA) 

We are committed to building an inclusive culture of belonging that embraces the diversity of our people and represents the communities in which we work and the customers we serve. We know the happiest and highest performing teams include people with diverse perspectives and ways of solving problems. We strive to attract and retain talent from all backgrounds and create workplaces where everyone feels empowered to bring their full, authentic selves to work.  

Shift5 is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability, age, marital status, ancestry, projected veteran status, or any other protected group or class.