Accounting Manager

For more than three decades, Design West Technologies Inc. has served as a trusted partner to the Department of War (DoW), delivering mission-critical design engineering and rugged manufacturing solutions that protect our nation's warfighters. As we enter our next chapter, we are blending our deep-rooted defense heritage with a start-up culture designed to take advantage of the current DoW landscape. Operating out of our facility in Tustin, CA, we are seeking an ambitious, forward-thinking Accounting Manager  to champion this cultural evolution and lead the day-to-day accounting operations to ensure compliance with applicable DoD programs. The successful candidate will closely collaborate with Finance, Contracts, Program Management, Operations and executive leadership to provide accurate financial information and support strong internal controls and audit readiness.

KEYS RESPONSIBILITIES:

Accounting, Financial Reporting & Government Contract Compliance

• Manage daily accounting operations, including GL, AP, AR, payroll coordination, reconciliations, and reporting.
• Lead monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes.
• Prepare and review financial statements and management reports for accuracy, compliance, and timely reporting.
• Identify and resolve accounting discrepancies and maintain accurate financial records and supporting documentation.
• Ensure accounting practices comply with FAR, DFARS, CAS, GAAP , company policies, and contractual requirements.
• Support DCAA audits and reviews , including audit schedules, reconciliations, documentation, and auditor requests.
• Maintain audit-ready records and internal controls and assist with indirect rate forecasting, incurred cost submissions, and government financial reporting.

Financial Planning & Analysis

• Support budgeting, forecasting, cash-flow analysis, and financial planning.
• Analyze actual results against budgets and forecasts and communicate significant variances and financial trends.
• Partner with Finance, Operations, Program Management, and Contracts to provide financial analysis supporting business and strategic decisions.

Internal Controls & Process Improvement

• Develop and maintain effective internal controls, accounting policies, and procedures to safeguard company assets and ensure compliance.
• Identify and implement process improvements that enhance accounting efficiency, accuracy, reporting, and audit readiness.
• Ensure consistent application of accounting policies, procedures, and financial controls.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Supervise, mentor, and develop accounting staff, providing guidance, training, and performance feedback.
• Maintain confidentiality of financial, contractual, employee, customer, and government-related information.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience , preferably within manufacturing, aerospace, government contracting/defense experience with working knowledge of FAR, DFARS, CAS and DCAA.
• Experience managing or supervising accounting personnel.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP, project accounting, job costing, and/or contract accounting.
• Strong Excel skills and experience with ERP/accounting software: SAGE 100, Automated AP System
• Demonstrated ability to analyze financial data and identify discrepancies or trends.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with DCAA audits , incurred cost submissions, and government accounting requirements.
• CPA certification or progress toward CPA certification a plus
• Familiarity with government contract types, including cost-plus, time-and-materials, and firm-fixed-price contracts, and/or Government Property, EVMS, or other DoW financial compliance requirements.
• Experience working in a cleared defense environment is preferred.

Security & Compliance

This position may require access to information subject to U.S. government security and export-control requirements. Candidates must meet applicable eligibility requirements

Why Join Us?

You'll have the opportunity to make a direct impact by protecting the infrastructure that supports mission-critical defense programs. Working alongside talented engineers and technology professionals, you'll help strengthen our cybersecurity posture, support regulatory compliance, and contribute to innovative solutions that protect those who protect us. EEO employer including veterans & individuals with disabilities.