Technical Accounting Principal

At H&P, our people are our strength.

Since 1920, Helmerich and Payne has been the industry’s most trusted partner in drilling productivity and reliability. As the world changes, so does our approach. We are changing the landscape of drilling by using cutting-edge rig technologies and drilling solutions to build upon a century of success, all while continuing to deliver better outcomes for our customers. 

At H&P, our people are our strength. We strive to continually lead with our Core Values that enable employees to develop on their H&P Journey. We believe that doing the right thing means creating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace that empowers our people to bring their authentic selves to work every day. 

Some companies offer career paths. We offer a Journey of a Lifetime. Let's go far, together.

Hear directly from our employees, and leaders about their unique journeys at Helmerich and Payne.

This position is expected to be filled in a work location that is within the states of Colorado, Louisiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma or Texas. This role requires the employee to report to the Tulsa, OK headquarters one week per quarter (or more, as needed).

Work Type: Remote - Louisiana, Mississippi, Colorado or Texas

Work Type: Remote or Hybrid- Tulsa, OK

#LI-Remote # LI- Hybrid

Why This Role

This is not a “check-the-box” technical accounting role. As Technical Accounting Principal, you will be the organization’s go-to authority on complex, judgment-intensive accounting matters—working at the intersection of strategy, transactions, and financial reporting. You’ll influence how the business evaluates and executes significant transactions, partner with senior leaders across the company, and play a key role in shaping accounting policy in a dynamic, growth-oriented environment. If you enjoy solving hard problems, forming defensible accounting positions, and clearly communicating complex conclusions to diverse stakeholders, this role offers visibility, ownership, and impact.

What You’ll Do

• Serve as the technical accounting lead for complex, non-routine transactions and other unusual agreements requiring significant judgment under U.S. GAAP.
  • Some examples include:
    • Share-based compensation
    • Long-term investments
    • Debt transactions
    • Revenue recognition
    • Leases
    • Fair value
    • Impairment testing (goodwill, intangibles, fixed assets)
    • Business combinations
• Research, interpret, and implement new accounting standards; prepare clear, well-supported technical accounting memos and position papers.
• Act as the primary technical liaison with external auditors, leading discussions and resolving complex accounting matters efficiently and professionally.
• Liaise with external subject-matter experts, auditors, and legal counsel to ensure compliance and accuracy
• Support month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close activities, including review of technical disclosures and financial statement impacts.
• Continuously improve accounting policies, processes, and internal controls to support scalability and compliance.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Investor Relations, Tax, Legal, FP&A, and senior leadership on high-visibility initiatives and transactions.

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting; CPA required.
• Big 4 or national public accounting background with experience in Assurance.
• 8+ years of progressive accounting experience with deep exposure to technical accounting and U.S. GAAP research.
• Strong experience in preparing SOX-compliant documentation
• Demonstrated ability to apply judgment to complex accounting issues and clearly document and communicate conclusions in the form of audit-ready technical memos.
• Experience working directly with external auditors on complex accounting topics.
• Hands on individual with strong work ethic
• Detail oriented but can provide vision and direction for the "big picture"

Nice to Have

• Experience in the oil and gas industry and familiarity with ERP integrations
• Experience with:
  • Oracle FCCS
  • Wdesk (Workiva)
  • Microsoft Copilot
  • Intelligize

Why You’ll Love It Here

• Strong team: You’ll be surrounded by team members who embody grit and a “do what it takes” attitude, fostering a supportive and resilient work environment.