Business Unit Controller

Worker Type

Regular

Job Description

 

Summary

We’re seeking a proactive, experienced Business Unit Controller to lead the end-to-end accounting, financial reporting, and internal control environment for the Unmanned Underwater Vehicles line of business. You will oversee the monthly close and reporting cycles, ensure SOX-compliant control execution, support corporate consolidation requirements, and drive continuous improvement as the segment integrates systems, policies, and processes.

This is an ideal opportunity for a hands-on, detail-oriented leader who thrives in a dynamic, mission-driven environment and is committed to building a scalable, well-controlled accounting function for a high-impact business segment.

Position Responsibilities

• Own all accounting and financial reporting for the UUV segment, including close, reporting packages, and quarterly SOX sub-certifications.
• Lead, coach, and develop the segment accounting team to ensure high-quality execution and strong control adherence.
• Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual close; review and approve journal entries, reconciliations, and variance analyses.
• Deliver accurate segment reporting for corporate consolidation, ensuring proper ASC 606 revenue recognition and application of cost accounting principles.
• Maintain a SOX-compliant control environment with timely execution, complete documentation, and audit readiness.
• Partner with FP&A, Operations, Program Finance, and Corporate Accounting to resolve issues, support forecasting, and provide business insights.
• Support internal, external, and government audits with strong documentation and timely responses.
• Lead process improvement and automation initiatives to strengthen controls and enhance scalability.
• Support ERP enhancements, integrations, testing, and data validation.
• Provide ad hoc analysis to segment leadership and corporate stakeholders; contribute to cross-functional projects as needed.

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• CPA or equivalent certification
• 10–15 years of progressive accounting experience, including 3+ years of supervisory or team-lead experience and 5+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment
• Strong technical accounting knowledge, including U.S. GAAP, ASC 606, and cost accounting principles
• Experience leading monthly close processes and delivering financial reporting
• Hands-on experience with large ERP systems
• Experience supporting SOX or internal control environments at public-company scale
• Excellent analytical, communication, and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• Ability to partner effectively with cross-functional stakeholders
• U.S. Citizenship and ability to obtain a security clearance (ITAR)

Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies

• Familiarity with Deltek Costpoint and Oracle ERP systems.
• Public accounting experience (Big 4 or regional)
• Experience in the aerospace, defense, or government contracting industries (FAR, CAS, etc.)
• Experience with ERP implementations, migrations, or finance transformation initiatives
• Strong leadership, communication (both written and verbal), and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage a team in a deadline and change driven environment.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.

Physical Demands

• Ability to sit, stand, stoop, reach, lift (up to 10 lbs.), bend, etc.  Hand and wrist dexterity to utilize the computer.
• May require travel to sites/program and special functions.

Special Requirements

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) or asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) required.

Must be able to travel within the Continental U.S. and internationally when required.

Clearance Level

 

No Clearance

The salary range for this role is:

$163,000 - $239,925

AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.

ITAR Requirement:

This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”