Strategic Finance Controller for Space Tech

Northwood Space; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Northwood Space is a modern space infrastructure company seeking a Controller to serve as the financial backbone of our organization, balancing strategic leadership with hands-on execution. This role will design and implement financial systems, drive forecasting and planning, and provide executive-level insights while ensuring AP/AR, payroll, and revenue recognition are accurate.

Beyond managing the numbers, this role will help build the finance team and shape a culture of thoughtful spending,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business (CPA or CMA a plus).
• 10+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience, including prior controller or senior accounting role.
• Experience in a start-up or manufacturing environment strongly preferred.
• Proficiency with accounting software (e.g., NetSuite or similar).
• Strong understanding of GAAP, financial reporting, ASC 606 and internal controls.
• Hands-on and detail-oriented, with willingness to handle transactional tasks as well as strategic projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead the in-house transition of accounting functions (monthly close, AP/AR, payroll management, revenue recognition & cost accounting systems design).
• Build and oversee the company’s financial infrastructure, implement functional accounting strategies, reporting frameworks, and internal controls.
• Partner with leadership on business planning, capital strategy, and operational decision‑making.
• Provide timely and insightful financial reporting to executives, board members, and investors.
• Establish and champion company-wide financial controls that promote financial discipline and responsible spending.
• Play a leadership role in shaping the company’s culture around cost-awareness and ROI-driven decision-making.
• Recruit, mentor, and develop a high-performing finance team as the company scales.
• Evaluate and implement financial systems and tools that enable growth and efficiency.
• Support external audits, tax filings, and investor reporting.

Skills

Finance leadership

GAAP knowledge

Internal controls

Hands-on execution

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business

CPA or CMA a plus

Tools

NetSuite

SQL

Job description

Northwood Space is a modern space infrastructure company seeking a Controller to serve as the financial backbone of our organization, balancing strategic leadership with hands-on execution. This role will design and implement financial systems, drive forecasting and planning, and provide executive-level insights while ensuring AP/AR, payroll, and revenue recognition are accurate.

Beyond managing the numbers, this role will help build the finance team and shape a culture of thoughtful spending,