Controller

About Nominal Nominal is building the connected test and operations platform powering the world's most advanced hardware systems, from spacecraft and autonomous vehicles to next‑generation defense programs. Our platform gives hardware engineering teams a single place to ingest data, analyze performance, automate test execution, and collaborate across every phase of development, so they can move faster without sacrificing safety or precision. We're a fast‑moving team that owns problems end‑to‑end, works across disciplines, and thrives at the intersection of hardware and software. We serve top‑tier commercial and defense customers, from autonomy leaders like Anduril and Shield AI to next‑generation technology leaders like Helion Energy, Saronic, and Mach Industries, as well as performance engineering teams like Pratt Miller Motorsports, alongside mission partners within the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force on programs where failure isn’t an option. We're backed by Sequoia, Founders Fund, General Catalyst, Lux Capital, and Lightspeed. Our team draws from SpaceX, Palantir, Anduril, Applied Intuition, and other leading companies, united by a common mission: giving hardware engineers the tools to build the future with speed, safety, and confidence. About the role We’re looking for our first Controller to build and lead Nominal's accounting function. This is more than a traditional controllership role—it's an opportunity to architect the accounting infrastructure for a rapidly growing, dual‑use technology company from the ground up. You'll own the integrity of our financial reporting while designing the systems, controls, processes, and team that allow the business to scale. From preparing financial statements and leading the monthly close to establishing accounting policies, implementing controls, supporting audits, and building long‑term accounting infrastructure, you'll combine strategic ownership with hands‑on execution. As Nominal grows, you'll become the accounting leader responsible for ensuring our financial foundation is as scalable and reliable as the products we build. Lead the controllership function Own the integrity of Nominal's financial reporting, including financial statements, month‑and‑year‑end close, technical accounting, and compliance with US GAAP and applicable regulations. Establish accounting policies that support new products and customer contracts. Build accounting infrastructure Design and implement the in‑house accounting function from the ground up by developing scalable processes, technological and financial systems, internal controls, and documentation that meet the needs of a maturing business. Own operational accounting Lead day‑to‑day accounting operations across accounts payable, accounts receivable, billing, expense management, treasury, and cash management while continuously improving automation and operational efficiency. Drive financial visibility Develop revenue recognition (ASC 606), cost accounting, and reporting processes that provide leadership with clear insights into business performance, margins, customer profitability, and resource allocation. Maintain a chart of accounts that is properly aligned to the nature of Nominal’s business, is comprehensive, and informative. Lead systems and data integrity Own the accounting technology stack and improve integrations across ERP, CRM, billing, payroll, and expense platforms to ensure accurate, reliable financial data. Support international expansion Partner with Finance leadership to build scalable accounting processes that support Nominal's global growth, including future multi‑entity operations, international consolidations, foreign currency accounting, and coordination with external accounting partners. Partner with leadership Serve as the company's accounting expert, partnering with executive leadership to evaluate technical accounting matters, support strategic initiatives, and ensure accounting considerations are informing strategic business decision‑making. Prepare Nominal to scale Lead external audits, strengthen governance and internal controls, and build the accounting organization—including future processes, systems, and team structure—that will support Nominal as it continues to grow. We’re looking for someone with CPA certification Active CPA with 8+ years of progressive accounting experience, including public accounting and/or high‑growth startup experience. Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field. Technical accounting expertise Deep knowledge of US GAAP, ASC 606, financial reporting, internal controls, audit management, and accounting systems. Experience researching and applying technical accounting guidance to new business situations. Controller mindset You don't just close the books—you build the accounting organization behind them. You're comfortable owning accounting policy, designing controls, making judgment calls, building the team, and serving as the accounting authority within a growing business. Ownership mentality You're excited to own the accounting function end‑to‑end. You naturally balance strategic thinking with hands‑on execution and enjoy solving problems that don't yet have established processes. Systems builder You thrive in environments where you're creating infrastructure instead of inheriting it. You enjoy designing processes that become faster, more scalable, and increasingly automated over time. Cross‑functional leader You build trusted partnerships across Finance, Sales, Operations, Engineering, and Legal. You communicate complex accounting concepts clearly and influence through sound judgment, humility, and collaboration. Skills that supercharge us ERP & accounting systems Experience implementing and optimizing best‑in‑class ERP systems, alongside accounting and finance tools like Ramp, Stripe, Bill, Coupa, and related financial systems. Familiarity with “new‑era” or “AI‑native” alternatives like Anrok, Rillet, Campfire, and more. Venture‑backed, B2B SaaS experience Background in high‑growth B2B SaaS companies with familiarity across recurring revenue models, deployment modalities, gross margin analysis, operational metrics, and startup finance. Government contracts accounting Experience with Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), indirect rate structures, government contract accounting, and defense‑related financial operations. International & multi‑entity accounting Experience supporting international entities or global expansion, including multi‑entity consolidations, foreign currency accounting, transfer pricing considerations, and familiarity with IFRS. Experience partnering with external accounting firms across multiple jurisdictions is a plus. Builder experience Experience joining an early‑stage company or building an accounting function from the ground up is highly valued. Benefits and perks 100% coverage of medical, dental, and vision insurance Unlimited PTO and sick leave Free lunch, snacks, and coffee Professional development stipend In‑office hardware lab with a $250 project stipend Annual company retreat All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin. ITAR requirements To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here. Compensation The base pay range for this role is $180,000 – $230,000 per year. #J-18808-Ljbffr