Accounting Manager

Title
Accounting Manager


About the Organization
Applied Aerospace & Defense (Applied) is a premier provider of advanced design, engineering, and vertically integrated manufacturing solutions for leading and next-generation space and defense technology companies. Applied builds complex hardware for extreme operating environments and is focused on three core markets: Space and Launch Systems, Defense Aviation and Airborne Systems, and C5ISR and Precision Strike Systems. With decades of space and defense manufacturing heritage, Applied combines deep material science and IP-enabled process expertise with the ability to enable rapid prototyping, enhance new product development, and responsively scale production. Across its nationwide infrastructure of advanced manufacturing facilities, Applied continuously supports a balanced mix of next-generation technology and platform development, large scale production programs, and aftermarket sustainment for enduring platforms.


EOE Statement
Applied Aerospace and Defense is an equal opportunity employer.


Description

Accounting Manager - Long Beach

We're looking for an Accounting Manager to lead the accounting function for our Long Beach manufacturing site. This role partners closely with our operational finance leader to drive an accurate monthly close, deliver strong financial reporting, and support our cost accounting work. We're looking for someone who brings strong technical accounting expertise and enjoys working side-by-side with operations to influence performance and improve how we work.

This is a growth role. As we continue to align policies, processes, and systems across our West Coast operations, this position will expand into broader multi-site responsibility. The right person is excited not just to manage the books for one site, but to help build and standardize a scalable accounting structure across multiple locations.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Financial Reporting & Compliance: * Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual close for the Long Beach site, ensuring accurate, timely GAAP reporting.

* Maintain general ledger accuracy and complete reconciliations with strong documentation.

* Partner with our SEC reporting team by providing required schedules and supporting information.

* Serve as a key contact for internal and external auditors.

Cost Accounting & Inventory Management: * Manage cost accounting activities including standard costing, variance analysis, and margin insights.

* Oversee inventory valuation, physical inventory processes, and cycle-count programs.

* Collaborate with operations to understand and optimize material, labor, and overhead costs.

* Apply CAS concepts where relevant to government-contract work.

Standardization, Systems & Internal Controls: * Support the rollout of new systems, tools, and standardized processes as part of our broader integration efforts.

* Maintain SOX controls and ensure adherence to internal control requirements and financial policies.

* Identify and implement opportunities to streamline and standardize accounting processes across sites.

Leadership & Growth Path: * Serve as the technical accounting partner to our regional operational finance leader.

* Provide direction, coaching, and development to accounting staff.

* Take on expanded oversight across additional West Coast sites as we align systems and practices.

* Build strong partnerships across finance, operations, and supply chain.

SKILLS * EXPERIENCE * EDUCATION:

Education & Experience: * Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA/CMA preferred).

* 5+ years of accounting experience; public accounting experience strongly preferred.

* Manufacturing experience required.

* Leadership or management experience with a desire to grow into multi-site responsibility.

Technical Skills: * Strong knowledge of GAAP, standard costing, variance analysis, and financial analysis.

* ERP proficiency; experience with implementations or system standardization is a plus.

* Strong Excel and reporting skills.

Soft Skills: * Analytical, organized, and detail-oriented.

* Strong communicator who builds trust and works well cross-functionally.

* Comfortable in a fast-paced, evolving environment and able to help drive structure and consistency.

Work Environment & Schedule: * Onsite role based in Long Beach, CA, with periodic travel to other West Coast sites as responsibilities expand.

* May require extended hours during close and audit periods.

Preferred Qualifications: * Master's degree in Accounting, Finance, or an MBA.

* Experience with CAS and government-contract accounting.

* Experience with SOX and public-company reporting.

* Prior involvement in ERP integrations.

Pay Range depends on experience: 130-150K

Position Requirements

Shift
Days


Full-Time/Part-Time
Full-Time


Location
Applied Aerospace & Defense, Long Beach


Category
Accounting/Finance


Req Number
ACC-26-00018


Position
Sr. Accounting Manager


Close Date

Post Internal Days
0


Number of Openings
1


Exempt/Non-Exempt
Exempt


Hiring Manager(s)
Jacqueline Cadena

This position is currently accepting applications.

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