expensing of R&D and mask/tooling costs Design the companys internal control framework and risk management strategy, anticipating requirements for future SOX readiness ahead of an IPO or acquisition Lead technical accounting research and drafting of formal position papers for new, unusual, or judgment-intensive transactions (e.g., equity financings, convertible notes, government/DOE grants, R&D tax credits) Own the external audit relationship at the engagement level - negotiate scope and fees, manage the audit committee/board relationship, and resolve technical disputes with auditors Partner directly with the CFO on capital strategy: fundraising due diligence, cap table and equity accounting, banking/credit facility negotiations, and investor and board reporting Own tax strategy in partnership with outside advisors, including R&D tax credit studies, multi-state nexus, and structuring for future growth Lead evaluation, selection, and implementation of ERP and financial systems as the company scales from startup to growth stage Develop and present financial reporting packages, KPIs, and technical accounting memos to the CFO, board of directors, and investors Assess and advise on the accounting and reporting implications of strategic transactions, including M&A, new product lines, and international expansion Establish company-wide accounting policies and a formal delegation-of-authority framework as the organization grows. Qualifications Required: Bachelors degree in Accounting or Finance; CPA required 8-10+ years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 3+ years managing a team and owning the audit relationship Deep technical GAAP expertise, including revenue recognition, inventory/cost accounting, and complex or judgment-intensive transactions Track record designing and scaling an internal control environment, ideally with exposure to SOX readiness Extensive hands-on experience with QuickBooks and ability to evaluate and lead migration to a more robust ERP (e.g., NetSuite) as the company scales Experience supporting fundraising, board reporting, or investor due diligence Proven ability to research and formally document positions on novel or complex accounting issues Strong executive presence; comfortable presenting to the CFO, board, and investors.