Assistant Controller

Assistant Controller

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies' core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

This role oversees core accounting operations and ensures compliance with company policies and U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). You will lead day‑to‑day accounting activities, cost accounting, tax filings, reporting, and analysis that support business performance. Working closely with executives and functional leaders, you will strengthen financial accuracy, improve processes, and provide insights that support informed decision-making across the company.

Responsibilities

• Oversees daily accounting operations and ensures adherence to company policies and U.S. GAAP.
• Leads the month-end close process and supports accurate revenue recognition.
• Improves accounting efficiency through streamlined processes, enhanced controls, and practical system usage.
• Supports financial and tax strategy execution and files monthly use tax returns.
• Manages cost accounting functions including program cost tracking, budget analysis, profitability reporting, and high‑value purchase order approval.
• Prepares and supports analysis of budgets, financial reports, and trends to assist executive leadership and the Board of Directors.
• Oversees material and vendor selection and supports capital equipment purchasing.
• Supports negotiation and administration of customer contracts from proposal development through Contract Data Requirements List (CDRL) submissions.
• Provides coaching and mentoring to team members to support skill development and career growth.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, business, or a related field.
• Five or more years of experience in a corporate environment.
• Intermediate to advanced skills with Microsoft Excel.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate with multiple stakeholders and support business value in a fast‑paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in finance, accounting, business, or a related field.

This position requires U.S. person status under U.S. export control laws, including U.S. citizens and nationals, lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company‑paid life and AD&D insurance
• Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
• Tuition reimbursement

Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.