Principal Staff Accountant

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air‑launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.

Principal Staff Accountant – Aerospace & Defense

The Principal Staff Accountant is a senior technical accounting professional responsible for ensuring accurate financial reporting, compliance with government regulations, and strong internal controls in a highly regulated aerospace and defense environment. This role serves as a subject‑matter expert for complex accounting matters, government contract accounting, and audit support, while partnering closely with program management, finance leadership, and external auditors.

• Lead complex accounting analyses and documentation in accordance with U.S. GAAP, including revenue recognition (ASC 606), leases (ASC 842), and long‑term contracts.
• Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and disclosures.
• Research, interpret, and implement new accounting standards and regulatory guidance.
• Serve as the accounting authority for unusual or non‑routine transactions.
• Provide monthly reports to indirect budget owners and facilitate updates to their forecasts.

• Ensure compliance with FAR, CAS, DFARS, and other applicable government regulations.
• Support incurred cost submissions, forward pricing rate proposals, and cost impact analyses.
• Partner with contracts and program teams to ensure proper cost accounting and revenue treatment.
• Maintain compliant cost structures and indirect rate allocations.

• Act as a primary liaison for internal, external, and government audits (DCAA, DCMA).
• Prepare audit schedules, respond to audit inquiries, and resolve findings.
• Design, implement, and monitor strong internal controls over financial reporting.
• Support SOX compliance and continuous process improvements.

• Mentor and review work of senior and staff accountants.
• Partner with FP&A, programs, supply chain, and engineering teams to support business objectives.
• Drive accounting process improvements, automation, and best practices.
• Provide clear guidance and recommendations to finance and executive leadership.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance (Master’s preferred).
• CPA or CMA strongly preferred.
  8–12+ years of progressive accounting experience, including significant aerospace/defense or government contracting exposure.
• Deep working knowledge of U.S. GAAP, FAR, CAS, and DCAA requirements.
• Experience supporting government audits and complex contract accounting.
• Advanced proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., Deltek Costpoint, SAP, Oracle) and Excel.

• Experience with cost‑type, fixed‑price, and hybrid government contracts.
• Prior leadership or supervisory experience.
• Background in publicly traded or PE‑backed A&D companies.
• Strong documentation and technical memo writing skills.

• Exceptional attention to detail and analytical skills.
• Strong judgment and problem‑solving ability.
• Ability to communicate complex accounting topics clearly.
• Proactive, hands‑on, and improvement‑oriented mindset.
• Ability to thrive in a regulated, deadline‑driven environment.

$128,000‑$200,000

Eligible for up to 15% annual bonus

• 9/80 schedule
• Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
• Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
• 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
• Tuition reimbursement

This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.

Mojave Air & Spaceport is located 95 miles north of Los Angeles. To outsiders it may seem like it is the middle‑of‑nowhere, but it offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California’s…