Startup Controller: Scale FinOps with Equity & Growth

Phoenix Tailings; Burlington (MA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 275,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare coverage

Stock options

Unlimited PTO

Learning & development

Job summary

Phoenix Tailings is seeking a hands-on, strategic Controller to build and scale financial operations from the ground up. You will design and implement the company’s financial infrastructure, create scalable accounting processes, and provide key financial insights to leadership and investors.

The ideal candidate has previously built financial systems at a startup, thrives in fast-paced environments, and will own finance operations from scratch.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in a senior financial role at a startup, preferably as a first finance hire.
• Proven track record of building financial systems from scratch, including accounting processes and reporting frameworks.
• Strong understanding of GAAP accounting, financial modeling, and startup cash flow management.
• Ability to thrive in ambiguity—excited to build, iterate, and optimize in a fast-moving startup.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to translate financial data into strategic recommendations.

Responsibilities

• Build and implement all financial systems, accounting policies, and internal controls to support a high-growth startup.
• Own financial reporting—ensure accurate, real-time financial insights for leadership and investors.
• Develop and maintain scalable budgeting and forecasting models, aligning financial plans with business objectives.
• Manage all financial operations, including payroll, treasury, vendor payments, cash flow management, and accounts receivable/payable.
• Select and implement financial software (ERP, accounting tools, FP&A models) to streamline processes.
• Ensure GAAP compliance, tax filings, and regulatory adherence while working with external accountants.
• Act as a strategic partner to leadership, providing financial insights to guide company growth, fundraising, and capital allocation.
• Identify and mitigate financial risks, ensuring the company is set up for long-term financial success.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Analytical thinking

Ambiguity handling

Education

CPA or strong accounting background

Tools

ERP systems

Accounting software

FP&A tools

Job description

Phoenix Tailings is seeking a hands-on, strategic Controller to build and scale financial operations from the ground up. You will design and implement the company’s financial infrastructure, create scalable accounting processes, and provide key financial insights to leadership and investors.

The ideal candidate has previously built financial systems at a startup, thrives in fast-paced environments, and will own finance operations from scratch.