Financial Controller

Firecrest Aerospace is a U.S. aerospace propulsion company headquartered in Morrisville, North Carolina, with manufacturing operations being established in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. As a subsidiary of CSE USA, Inc., a member of CSG Group, Firecrest develops and manufactures advanced micro turbojet and turbofan engines for defense, aerospace, and other high-performance applications, supporting U.S. government, allied, and commercial customers. The company is investing approximately $15 million to establish its initial U.S. manufacturing facility in Stevens Point, where it expects to create approximately 125 high-skilled manufacturing, engineering, and technical positions. As Firecrest expands from engine assembly, integration, and testing into full-scale manufacturing, engineering, and advanced product development, it is helping strengthen the U.S. aerospace and defense industrial base while advancing next-generation propulsion technologies. At Firecrest Aerospace, you will have the opportunity to work alongside a growing team committed to engineering excellence, innovation, and mission success. Whether your expertise is in manufacturing, engineering, quality, operations, or business functions, you will play a direct role in building advanced propulsion systems that support critical national security and aerospace missions. Position Summary Firecrest Aerospace is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Financial Controller to oversee all aspects of financial management and reporting. This role reports directly to the CFO and works closely with leadership. The Financial Controller will be responsible for accounting, financial planning, compliance, and cash management, while advising and driving best practices in financial performance. We're looking for a controller who wants to build a best-in-class accounting and financial management operation from the ground up. You'll have direct access to leadership, the authority to implement controls and processes, and the opportunity to shape how the company operates as it scales. A critical responsibility of this role is to lead the annual budget process, from initial coordination through final presentation to senior leadership. Key Responsibilities Accounting & Financial Reporting Oversee all accounting activities for the facility, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll coordination, fixed assets, inventory accounting, and general ledger. Ensure timely and accurate month-end and year-end closing processes in accordance with U.S. GAAP and company policies. Prepare monthly financial statements, management reports, and KPI dashboards for facility leadership and senior leadership. Maintain the integrity of financial records and ensure compliance with internal reporting deadlines. Financial Planning & Budgeting Lead the annual budgeting process for the assigned facility in coordination with department managers. Prepare, analyze, and submit annual budgets, periodic forecasts, and financial projections to support operational and strategic objectives. Monitor budget performance, identify variances, and recommend corrective actions to ensure financial targets are achieved. Support the CFO in developing financial analyses and business cases for capital investments and operational improvements. Financial Analysis & Business Support Analyze financial performance, operating costs, inventory, and profitability, providing actionable recommendations to improve business results. Partner with operations to monitor manufacturing costs, labor efficiency, and overhead spending. Support pricing reviews, customer proposals, and contract profitability analyses. Provide financial support for capital expenditure requests and return-on-investment analyses. Internal Controls & Compliance Maintain and strengthen internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure compliance with corporate policies. Ensure compliance with U.S. GAAP, tax regulations, and company financial procedures. Support internal and external audits by preparing documentation and responding to audit requests. Assist with tax reporting requirements and coordination with external auditors and advisors. Support finance-related compliance with ITAR, EAR, and other applicable regulatory requirements. Corporate Reporting & Collaboration Serve as the primary finance liaison between the facility and the CFO. Ensure timely submission of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting packages. Collaborate with corporate finance on budgeting, forecasting, cash flow planning, and financial reporting initiatives. Support corporate projects, ERP improvements, and finance process standardization across the organization. Coordinate with other CSE business units on intercompany transactions, transfer pricing requirements, and financial reporting. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA or CMA strongly preferred). 7–10+ years of progressive finance/accounting experience, including at least 3-5 years in a controller, Assistant Controller or senior accounting role. Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP, cost accounting, financial reporting, and internal controls. Experience managing month-end close, budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP/accounting systems. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with exceptional attention to detail. Excellent communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with operations and executive leadership. Understanding of INCOTERMS and their financial implications Experience in manufacturing, aerospace, defense, or other regulated industries is preferred. What Success Looks Like in This Role Accurate and timely monthly financial reporting with full compliance with corporate reporting requirements. Budgets and forecasts are delivered on schedule with meaningful variance analysis and actionable recommendations. Strong financial controls support successful audits with minimal findings. Facility leadership receives reliable financial insights to improve operational performance and profitability. Effective partnership with the CFO ensuring alignment with company objectives and reporting standards. Continuous improvement of financial processes, reporting quality, and operational efficiency. What We Offer Competitive base salary with performance-based incentives. Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance. 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution. Paid time off including vacation, personal days, and company holidays. Professional development and training opportunities. Entrepreneurial, collaborative, and mission-driven work environment. #J-18808-Ljbffr