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, an established European entity supporting regional business development, sales, and operations, and a deployment hub in 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 base salary for candidates in states requiring pay transparency disclosure.

Salary Range $201,100 — $266,500 USD

To view Saildrone's candidate privacy policy, please visit: https://www.saildrone.com/privacy-policy .

BENEFITS

At Saildrone, we’re building operational capability that matters—and that requires people who can do their best work over the long term. We invest in our team’s well-being, financial security, and professional growth so you can focus on delivering real-world impact with confidence and stability. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support you and your family while you contribute to a mission with lasting significance.

Generous Time Off: Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual plus a robust annual holiday schedule and paid sick leave ensure you can rest, reset, and sustain performance over time.

Comprehensive Health Coverage: Premium, multi-tier Medical, Dental, and Vision plans with significant company contributions for employees and dependents—providing security and peace of mind.

Shared Ownership in the Mission: Equity grants are a core part of our compensation, allowing you to participate in the long-term value you help create through meaningful, operational work.

Retirement Savings: Access to a 401(k) retirement plan with flexible pre-tax and Roth payroll contribution options supports long-term financial planning.

Investment in Your Growth: We support your continuous learning through an annual professional development reimbursement program, empowering you to sharpen your skills and stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving field.

Relocation Support: For eligible roles, we offer relocation assistance to help bring the world’s best talent to our mission-critical locations.

Saildrone is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws.