Senior Accountant

Hermeus is an aerospace and defense technology company founded to radically accelerate air travel by delivering hypersonic aircraft. The company aims to develop hypersonic aircraft quickly and cost-effectively by integrating hardware-rich, iterative development with modern computing and autonomy. This approach has been validated through design, build, and test of the company’s first combined turbojet-ramjet engine and is now being scaled through its first flight vehicle program, Quarterhorse. Hermeus is also developing Darkhorse — an uncrewed hypersonic aircraft designed to deliver unique asymmetric capabilities to the warfighter.
Hermeus is a cutting-edge aerospace company developing next-generation high-speed aircraft and propulsion technologies. We are focused on transforming aerospace travel, leveraging advanced engineering to push the boundaries of innovation. We are seeking an experienced Senior Accountant to join our team and support our mission in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
The Senior Accountant will play a key role in the financial operations of Hermeus, providing accounting expertise with a focus on manufacturing, aerospace, and defense contracts. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in accounting, with experience in cost accounting, financial reporting, compliance with government contracts, and working within the highly regulated aerospace and defense industries.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Financial Reporting: Prepare, review, and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, ensuring compliance with US GAAP, FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation), and DCAA (Defense Contract Audit Agency) regulations.
• Cost Accounting: Oversee and manage cost accounting functions, including cost of goods sold (COGS), inventory management, and allocation of direct and indirect costs for manufacturing operations.
• Contract Accounting: Assist in managing  accounting for government contracts and aerospace defense projects, ensuring compliance with contract terms, cost-plus contracts, and fixed-price arrangements. Work closely with project managers and operations teams to monitor contract performance and ensure financial goals are met.
• General Ledger Maintenance: Maintain accurate and up-to-date general ledger entries, ensuring proper classification and reconciliation of all accounts.
• Month-End and Year-End Close: Lead and support the month-end and year-end close process, ensuring timely and accurate reporting. Prepare journal entries, account reconciliations, and variance analysis.
• Internal Controls and Audit Support: Design, implement, and maintain strong internal controls. Support external audits and assist with DCAA audits, ensuring that financial records and practices align with audit requirements.
• Budgeting and Forecasting: Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and financial forecasts. Work with cross-functional teams to ensure accurate forecasting of costs, revenues, and capital expenditures.
• Tax Compliance: Support tax filings and ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations. Work with external tax advisors as needed.
• ERP System Management: Leverage and manage ERP software (e.g., SAP, NetSuite, or similar) for financial reporting, cost management, and process improvements.
• Team Leadership: Provide mentorship and guidance to junior accounting staff. Collaborate with finance, operations, and engineering teams to support business needs and drive continuous improvement in accounting processes.
• Ad hoc Reporting & Analysis: Perform special financial analysis and reporting for management to support decision-making, including capital project evaluations, contract cost performance, and financial risk assessments.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• 5 or more years of experience in accounting, with a strong focus on manufacturing, aerospace, or defense industries.
• In-depth knowledge of US GAAP and familiarity with FAR/DFAR and DCAA regulations.
• Proven experience in cost accounting.
• Familiarity with the aerospace and defense industry, including government contracting and compliance requirements.
• Strong proficiency in ERP systems and advanced Excel skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) professional certification.
• Exp