Controller

ABOUT KRAKEN KINETICS

Kraken Kinetics designs and manufactures advanced kinetic solutions that enable modern warfighting capabilities for the United States Armed Forces and its allies. We specialize in mission-tailored warheads and firing systems for unmanned and autonomous weapon platforms, delivering production-ready solutions at speed to address urgent national security challenges.

Our team brings decades of specialized Department of War experience across the full lifecycle of kinetic system development—from concept and design through testing, manufacturing, and operational deployment. Built on a foundation of work that helped lead the DoW into the era of kinetic drones, Kraken Kinetics combines commercial agility with deep technical expertise to deliver DEFINITIVE LETHALITY when it matters most.

POSITION SUMMARY

Location: On-site at our Pinehurst, NC area facility

As we build out our finance function, we are seeking an experienced Controller to own the accounting operations of the company. Reporting to the Head of Finance, the Controller will be responsible for the integrity of the general ledger, monthly close, financial statements, and internal controls. This is a hands-on leadership role that will also supervise an accountant and serve as the primary liaison with external auditors, tax advisors, and banking partners. The ideal candidate is a strong technical accountant who thrives in a fast-moving manufacturing environment and is excited to help build scalable financial infrastructure from the ground up.

Key Responsibilities

Accounting Operations & Close

• Own the full-cycle accounting function including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll accounting, and fixed assets
• Lead the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process, ensuring accuracy and timeliness of financial statements
• Prepare and review journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules
• Maintain the chart of accounts and ensure consistent application of accounting policies across all cost centers and product lines
• Oversee inventory accounting and cost of goods sold in coordination with operations

Financial Reporting

• Prepare accurate and timely GAAP financial statements including income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement
• Develop and maintain management reporting packages for the Head of Finance and executive leadership

Internal Controls & Compliance

• Design, implement, and maintain a robust internal control environment appropriate for a growth-stage manufacturer
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and all applicable federal, state, and local tax and regulatory requirements
• Coordinate annual financial statement audit and tax return preparation with external CPA firm
• Manage sales and use tax filings, business licenses, and other statutory compliance obligations
• Maintain and enforce accounting policies and procedures across the organization

Systems & Process Improvement

• Serve as the Finance team’s primary owner of the accounting system, ensuring data integrity and system configuration
• Collaborate with the Head of Finance on ERP roadmap and future system upgrades or migrations
• Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and accuracy in accounting operations

Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with operations, supply chain, and HR to ensure accurate cost capture, payroll processing, and vendor management
• Serve as the primary point of contact for external auditors and tax advisors
• Support the Head of Finance on special projects, scenario modeling, and strategic financial initiatives

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
• 5–8 years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 2 years in a Controller or senior accounting leadership role
• Strong technical GAAP accounting knowledge including revenue recognition, inventory, and fixed assets
• Hands-on experience managing a full monthly close cycle
• Experience with ERP systems and proficiency in Microsoft Excel
• Demonstrated ability to design and maintain internal controls in a small-to-mid-size business environment
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; able to work effectively across functions and with external partners

Preferred

• CPA license is preferred
• Experience in manufacturing, defense, or a product-driven industry with cost accounting exposure
• Experience with various ERP including SAP, NetSuite, Quickbooks
• Experience building accounting infrastructure
• Exposure to inventory costing methods (standard cost, FIFO, weighted average)
• Proficiency in Power BI, Tableau, or similar data visualization tools

Security Requirement

US Citizen

• Security Statement: This position requires special access to U.S. government information. You must be a U.S. citizen for consideration

SALARY & BENEFITS

Kraken Kinetics is committed to offering a competitive compensation package to attract and retain top talent. This full-time, on-site exempt position offers an annual salary range of $100,000- $145,000 depending on qualifications and experience.

Benefits included:

• Generous PTO policy

• Comprehensive medical coverage (80% company-paid for employee dependents).

• Vision & dental (100% company-paid)

• Short and long-term disability coverage (100% company-paid)

• Generous 401(k) retirement plan

• Company-paid life insurance

• Great teammates and well stocked snacks

LIFE IN MOORE COUNTY, NC (PINEHURST AREA)

Kraken Kinetics is based in Moore County, North Carolina, home to Pinehurst, a nationally recognized destination offering an exceptional quality of life.

Employees benefit from a low cost of living, minimal congestion, and a strong sense of community, with easy access to larger metropolitan areas, including Raleigh-Durham.

Whether you're looking to accelerate your career or put down long-term roots, the Pinehurst area offers a compelling alternative to traditional tech and defense hubs.

We are committed to supporting relocation for the right candidates.

Watch what it’s like to live here:
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EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Kraken Kinetics is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and welcome applicants of all backgrounds.

Compensation Range: $100K - $145K