Corporate Controller

THE COMPANY Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV manufacturer or operator, Saildrone maintains active, combat-deployed systems supporting national security and force projection around the world, 24/7/365. Saildrone’s manufacturing and R&D headquarters are located in Alameda, CA, with business development and sales operations in Washington, DC, and deployment hubs in Europe and the Middle East. By combining proven autonomous operations, edge computing, advanced sensing, renewable power, and the most advanced and robust unmanned surface technology on the planet, Saildrone is shaping how the Navy of the future operates. Join a fast-moving, mission-driven team at the forefront of maritime security and autonomous innovation. THE POSITION Saildrone is seeking a Controller to join our Finance team. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, you will play a critical role in building and scaling Saildrone’s accounting function, ensuring accurate financial reporting, strong controls, and operational discipline across a rapidly growing global organization. We are looking for a hands-on leader who creates clarity from complexity, brings rigor to fast-moving environments, and has a proven track record of strengthening technical processes—from payroll to production costing—while enabling growth. THE TEAM The Finance team is responsible for safeguarding Saildrone’s financial integrity while enabling the company to scale manufacturing, operations, and global deployments. We partner closely with engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and operations to deliver reliable financial insights that support mission-critical work in a national security and defense environment. THE RESPONSIBILITIES Financial Reporting: Own the month-end and quarter-end close to deliver timely, accurate financial statements (P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow) in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Operational Accounting: Be accountable for the general ledger, chart of accounts, internal controls, and payroll operations. Compliance & Audit: Lead annual financial audits, tax filings, and regulatory compliance. Support DCAA/DCMA reviews, ensuring defense-related accounting practices meet FAR/CAS standards. Cost Accounting & Inventory: Partner with Manufacturing and Supply Chain to ensure accurate accounting for WIP, CapEx, overhead allocation, and production scaling. Technical Excellence: Oversee complex technical accounting arrangements, including multi-element SaaS and hardware contracts (ASC 606). Systems & Automation: Improve ERP/MRP workflows (e.g., NetSuite), driving automation to eliminate manual reporting and support multi-site operations. Strategic Oversight: Identify risks and inefficiencies in financial processes, taking corrective action and translating complex data into actionable insights for leadership. Managerial Scope: Build, mentor, and recruit a high-performing accounting team, fostering a culture of ownership, precision, and accountability. THE QUALIFICATIONS Active CPA required (Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance preferred). 15+ years of progressive accounting experience, including 3+ years in a Controller or Assistant Controller role. Deep expertise in U.S. GAAP, ASC 606, and project-based cost accounting. Direct experience in SaaS, hardware/manufacturing, and/or defense environments. Strong familiarity with government contracting compliance (FAR, DCAA, CAS). Proven experience with ERP systems such as NetSuite, Costpoint, SAP, or similar platforms. Demonstrated ability to operate effectively in high-growth, cross-functional environments. Excellent communication skills with the ability to bridge the gap between technical accounting and business operations. The base salary range for this position is shown below. Actual compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and qualifications. This range reflects the…