Optical Express Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

About Observable Space

At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by thousands of customers, including NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, RTX, the US Space Force and the U.S. Department of War, leading research institutions and international partners.

We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded compute, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world class products at scale with in-house manufacturing. From advanced ground stations, on-orbit sensor suites, free space optical lasercom, to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space.

Observable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux Capital, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners and Embedded Ventures. To learn more, visit observable.space.

About The Role

We are looking for a Corporate Controller to lead our accounting function through this period of growth — owning the close, and standing up scalable systems and controls.

This is a hands‑on leadership role for someone who can operate at both the strategic and the detailed level, who thrives in ambiguity, and who wants to build the financial infrastructure a maturing company needs. Based in Los Angeles.

What You’ll Do

• Own the monthly and quarterly close and consolidation, delivering timely, accurate financials in accordance with US GAAP.
• Build, mentor, and scale a high‑performing accounting team as the organization grows.
• Lead external audits and manage relationships with auditors, tax advisors, and other third parties.
• Own tax compliance across federal, state, and local jurisdictions.
• Drive the implementation and optimization of an ERP, including end‑to‑end configuration of GL, AP, AR, Inventory, Work Order / Cost of Goods, consolidation, and reporting structures. Will hire an ERP Implementer to manage, but this will be lockstep to help.
• Establish and maintain strong internal controls and scalable, well‑documented accounting processes.
• Lead cross‑functional initiatives such as Travel & Expense rollout, payroll automation, and cost accounting improvements.
• Partner with FP&A, operations, program management, and leadership to align finance with the broader business.

Basic Qualifications

• CPA required; public accounting background strongly preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive accounting experience, including a controller‑level leadership role.
• Manufacturing or hardware accounting experience (inventory, standard costing, BOMs, WIP).
• Experience taking a company through the audit readiness process, including implementation of ASC 606 Revenue Recognition
• Hands‑on ERP implementation experience is strongly preferred.
• Track record of building teams, processes, and controls in a high‑growth or scaling company.
• Comfort operating amid ambiguity, competing priorities, and a build‑it‑self‑you‑mindset.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in a government‑contracting environment, with working knowledge of FAR/DFARS and government cost accounting.
• Familiarity with project and cost accounting for programs and contracts.
• Space, aerospace, or broader defense industry exposure.
• DCAA‑compliant accounting system experience, including incurred cost submissions.

Details

• Location: Los Angeles, CA — on‑site (ideally 4 days in office and 1 day at home)
• Schedule: We work closely with an East Coast team, so this role starts the day around 7:00 a.m. Pacific.
• Reports to: CFO / VP Finance

What We Offer

Competitive Compensation – A salary package aligned with industry standards and your experience.

Equity Opportunities – Take part in our success with stock options.

Flexible Work Environment – Enjoy working from our office or in a hybrid work setup with the flexibility to work remotely part of the week. We require a minimum of 3 days per week in our office to support collaboration and team culture. (LA Office only)

Unlimited PTO (exempt only) – Take the time you need with our flexible, trust‑based vacation policy, including paid holidays. We encourage everyone to rest, recharge, and take care of themselves.

Health & Wellness – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of the premium paid by the employer for employees.

Cutting-Edge Tools – Get access to the latest hardware and software you need to do your best work.

Mission-Driven Culture – Be part of a team working on meaningful challenges with real-world impact.

Inclusive Team – We foster a supportive and diverse workplace where all voices are valued.

Observable Space is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.