As Controller, you'll run our accounting operations, financial close, and reporting - and build the controls, systems, and team that let DensityAI scale cleanly from startup to a company ready for ...
As Controller, you'll run our accounting operations, financial close, and reporting - and build the controls, systems, and team that let DensityAI scale cleanly from startup to a company ready for ...
Assistant Controller
Redwood City, CA · On-site
In May 2016, Silicon Valley startup Eva Automation, led by Gideon Yu, acquired Bowers & Wilkins ... Bowers & Wilkins is seeking to hire an Assistant Controller in the Redwood City Office. This ...
Assistant Controller
Redwood City, CA · On-site
In May 2016, Silicon Valley startup Eva Automation, led by Gideon Yu, acquired Bowers & Wilkins ... Bowers & Wilkins is seeking to hire an Assistant Controller in the Redwood City Office. This ...
Assistant Controller
Redwood City, CA · On-site
In May 2016, Silicon Valley startup Eva Automation, led by Gideon Yu, acquired Bowers & Wilkins ... Bowers & Wilkins is seeking to hire an Assistant Controller in the Redwood City Office. This ...
Assistant Controller
Redwood City, CA · On-site
In May 2016, Silicon Valley startup Eva Automation, led by Gideon Yu, acquired Bowers & Wilkins ... Bowers & Wilkins is seeking to hire an Assistant Controller in the Redwood City Office. This ...
Controller
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$150K - $230K/yr
About the Team As the first Controller at Antares, you will build and scale the accounting function ... Venture-backed startup experience * Experience with manufacturing, inventory accounting, standard ...
Controller
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$150K - $230K/yr
About the Team As the first Controller at Antares, you will build and scale the accounting function ... Venture-backed startup experience * Experience with manufacturing, inventory accounting, standard ...
Controller
Mountain View, CA · On-site
$200K - $300K/yr
As Controller, you'll run our accounting operations, financial close, and reporting - and build the controls, systems, and team that let DensityAI scale cleanly from startup to a company ready for ...
Controller
Mountain View, CA · On-site
$200K - $300K/yr
As Controller, you'll run our accounting operations, financial close, and reporting - and build the controls, systems, and team that let DensityAI scale cleanly from startup to a company ready for ...
Controller
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$160K - $175K/yr
The Controller will report directly to the CFO and play a critical leadership role overseeing ... Experience in startup, high-growth, or evolving environments * Exposure to construction accounting ...
Controller
Los Angeles, CA · On-site
$160K - $175K/yr
The Controller will report directly to the CFO and play a critical leadership role overseeing ... Experience in startup, high-growth, or evolving environments * Exposure to construction accounting ...
Controller
$160K - $175K/yr
The Controller will report directly to the CFO and play a critical leadership role overseeing ... Experience in startup, high-growth, or evolving environments * Exposure to construction accounting ...
Controller
$160K - $175K/yr
The Controller will report directly to the CFO and play a critical leadership role overseeing ... Experience in startup, high-growth, or evolving environments * Exposure to construction accounting ...
Controller
$200K - $300K/yr
As Controller, you'll run our accounting operations, financial close, and reporting -- and build the controls, systems, and team that let DensityAI scale cleanly from startup to a company ready for ...
Quick apply
Controller
$200K - $300K/yr
As Controller, you'll run our accounting operations, financial close, and reporting -- and build the controls, systems, and team that let DensityAI scale cleanly from startup to a company ready for ...
Controller
$160K - $175K/yr
The Controller will report directly to the CFO and play a critical leadership role overseeing ... Experience in startup, high-growth, or evolving environments * Exposure to construction accounting ...
Quick apply
Controller
$160K - $175K/yr
The Controller will report directly to the CFO and play a critical leadership role overseeing ... Experience in startup, high-growth, or evolving environments * Exposure to construction accounting ...
Controller
San Leandro, CA · On-site
Why This Role Matters As Controller, you will be responsible for all accounting and financial ... Experience working in a startup * Experience implementing finance-touching software tools
Controller
San Leandro, CA · On-site
Why This Role Matters As Controller, you will be responsible for all accounting and financial ... Experience working in a startup * Experience implementing finance-touching software tools
Controller
Richmond, CA · On-site
$150K - $170K/yr
We are looking for an experienced Controller to join a fast-growing deep-tech company in Richmond ... Experience building or refining accounting infrastructure in a startup or venture-backed company ...
Quick apply
Controller
Richmond, CA · On-site
$150K - $170K/yr
We are looking for an experienced Controller to join a fast-growing deep-tech company in Richmond ... Experience building or refining accounting infrastructure in a startup or venture-backed company ...
Controller
Glendale, CA · On-site
$150K - $190K/yr
Qualifications • 6+ years of accounting experience including controller or assistant-controller ... Startup pace: closes fast, documents well, escalates early. The pay range for this role is: 150,000 ...
Controller
Glendale, CA · On-site
$150K - $190K/yr
Qualifications • 6+ years of accounting experience including controller or assistant-controller ... Startup pace: closes fast, documents well, escalates early. The pay range for this role is: 150,000 ...
Financial Controller
South San Francisco, CA · On-site
$230K - $260K/yr
We are seeking a Financial Controller who is ready to bring their expertise to a high-impact ... Prior experience in a high-growth startup in technology, biotech, or hardware/manufacturing ...
Financial Controller
South San Francisco, CA · On-site
$230K - $260K/yr
We are seeking a Financial Controller who is ready to bring their expertise to a high-impact ... Prior experience in a high-growth startup in technology, biotech, or hardware/manufacturing ...
Financial Controller
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$230K - $270K/yr
We're backed by Oak HC/FT, Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), OpenAI Startup Fund, and Kleiner Perkins - and we're just getting started. About the role We are hiring a Controller to build a scalable, best ...
Financial Controller
San Francisco, CA · On-site
$230K - $270K/yr
We're backed by Oak HC/FT, Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), OpenAI Startup Fund, and Kleiner Perkins - and we're just getting started. About the role We are hiring a Controller to build a scalable, best ...
Assistant Controller
San Francisco, CA · Hybrid
$165K - $200K/yr
Controller Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt About Ever Ever is building the modern electric ... Experience with high-growth startup or technology companies. * Automotive, dealership, retail, or ...
Quick apply
Assistant Controller
San Francisco, CA · Hybrid
$165K - $200K/yr
Controller Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt About Ever Ever is building the modern electric ... Experience with high-growth startup or technology companies. * Automotive, dealership, retail, or ...
Controller
San Leandro, CA · On-site
Why This Role Matters As Controller, you will be responsible for all accounting and financial ... Experience working in a startup * Experience implementing finance-touching software tools
Controller
San Leandro, CA · On-site
Why This Role Matters As Controller, you will be responsible for all accounting and financial ... Experience working in a startup * Experience implementing finance-touching software tools
Controller
San Mateo, CA · Hybrid
$185K - $226K/yr
About this role We are looking for a Controller who wants to build - not just manage, this is a ... You've worked at a startup or high-growth company before and know what that actually means day to ...
Controller
San Mateo, CA · Hybrid
$185K - $226K/yr
About this role We are looking for a Controller who wants to build - not just manage, this is a ... You've worked at a startup or high-growth company before and know what that actually means day to ...
Assistant Controller
San Francisco, CA · Hybrid
$160K - $200K/yr
The Assistant Controller will build out the accounting function at a start up gaming Software ... Experience at a high-growth startup or scale-up where accounting infrastructure was immature. * ASC ...
Quick apply
Assistant Controller
San Francisco, CA · Hybrid
$160K - $200K/yr
The Assistant Controller will build out the accounting function at a start up gaming Software ... Experience at a high-growth startup or scale-up where accounting infrastructure was immature. * ASC ...
Controller
San Mateo, CA · On-site
$185K - $226K/yr
About this role We are looking for a Controller who wants to build - not just manage, this is a ... You've worked at a startup or high-growth company before and know what that actually means day to ...
Controller
San Mateo, CA · On-site
$185K - $226K/yr
About this role We are looking for a Controller who wants to build - not just manage, this is a ... You've worked at a startup or high-growth company before and know what that actually means day to ...
Controller
Mountain View, CA · On-site
Your Place Here MatX is seeking a dedicated and experienced Corporate Controller to lead our ... Startup Savvy . Experience scaling accounting operations from early-stage through growth.
Controller
Mountain View, CA · On-site
Your Place Here MatX is seeking a dedicated and experienced Corporate Controller to lead our ... Startup Savvy . Experience scaling accounting operations from early-stage through growth.
Startup Controller information
See California salary details
$54.3K - $65.1K
1% of jobs
$65.1K - $75.9K
4% of jobs
$75.9K - $86.7K
9% of jobs
$95.9K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$86.7K - $97.5K
13% of jobs
$97.5K - $108.3K
15% of jobs
The median wage is $114.1K / yr.
$108.3K - $119.1K
15% of jobs
$119.1K - $130K
15% of jobs
$132.9K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$130K - $140.8K
11% of jobs
$140.8K - $151.6K
9% of jobs
$151.6K - $162.4K
5% of jobs
$162.4K - $173.2K
3% of jobs
$54.3K
$117.9K
$173.2K
How much do startup controller jobs pay per year?
As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for startup controller in California is $117,932.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,700.00 and $136,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What is a startup controller?
A Startup Controller is a finance professional responsible for overseeing accounting, financial planning, and internal controls in an early-stage company. They manage financial reporting, budgeting, cash flow, and compliance to ensure the startup's financial health. Unlike larger organizations, a Startup Controller often takes on a more hands-on role, wearing multiple hats in finance and operations. They work closely with founders and investors to provide strategic financial insights that support growth. Their role is critical in scaling the business while maintaining financial discipline.
What are the main challenges a startup controller faces in an early-stage company?
One of the main challenges for a Startup Controller is managing financial processes amid rapid growth and evolving business models, often with limited resources and lean teams. You'll need to build or refine accounting systems, establish financial controls, and adapt to shifting priorities while ensuring compliance and accurate reporting. Collaboration with founders, department heads, and sometimes investors is frequent, requiring both financial expertise and strong communication skills. Success in this role often means being proactive, resourceful, and ready to pivot quickly as the startup scales or changes direction.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a startup controller?
To thrive as a Startup Controller, you need a solid background in accounting, financial reporting, and cash flow management, typically supported by a CPA or relevant degree. Experience with cloud-based accounting software such as QuickBooks Online, NetSuite, or Xero, as well as proficiency in Excel, is highly beneficial. Strong analytical thinking, adaptability, and clear communication are key soft skills that help navigate the fast-paced and dynamic startup environment. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate financial oversight, supporting rapid growth, and facilitating sound decision-making for the organization.
What are popular job titles related to Startup Controller jobs in California? For Startup Controller jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Startup Controller jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Startup Controller jobs in California are:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO
Re-posted 4 days ago
Job description
Own the accounting backbone of a fast-scaling AI-hardware company. As Controller, you'll run our accounting operations, financial close, and reporting - and build the controls, systems, and team that let DensityAI scale cleanly from startup to a company ready for its next stage. You'll be the steward of the books and a key partner to finance leadership and the broader business.
What You'll Do- Own day-to-day accounting operations and the monthly/quarterly close - GL, AP/AR, payroll, expense, and treasury support - with accurate, timely financials
- Produce US GAAP financial statements and management reporting; support board and investor reporting
- Partner with FP&A to manage the annual financial statement audit, coordinate external auditors, and ensure timely completion of audited financials and related filings
- Build and maintain internal controls, accounting policies, and scalable processes as headcount and spend grow
- Own technical accounting - revenue recognition (ASC 606), stock-based compensation (ASC 718), leases, and R&D/capitalization questions relevant to a chip company
- Manage external audits, tax filings, and statutory/regulatory compliance with our auditors and tax advisors
- Partner with FP&A on ERP selection, implementation, and optimization, including finance process design, data migration, testing, and continuous improvement.
- Lead and scale the accounting function - select and implement ERP/systems (e.g., NetSuite), and hire/mentor the team over time
- Partner with FP&A and finance leadership on budgeting, spend visibility, and cash management - including the silicon supply-chain/NRE spend the program drives
- BS/MS in Accounting or Finance; CPA strongly preferred
- 8+ years of progressive accounting experience, including Controller or Assistant Controller, ideally blending public accounting (Big 4) and industry
- Deep US GAAP and hands-on technical accounting (ASC 606, ASC 718, leases)
- Track record scaling accounting at a high-growth startup - building close processes, controls, and systems from an early stage
- Experience owning external audits and tax, and implementing/administering an ERP (NetSuite or equivalent)
- A hands-on builder who's comfortable doing the work and leading it in a fast-moving environment
- (Optional) Hardware/semiconductor or deep-tech experience; inventory/COGS/manufacturing accounting; multi-entity or international consolidation; pre-IPO / IPO-readiness exposure
Compensation
Final offers depend on level, location, and skills relevant to the role. Additional compensation: equity grant per company guidelines; medical / dental / vision; 401(k); standard PTO.
Visa SponsorshipDensityAI sponsors qualified candidates for H-1B, O-1, TN, E-3, and other employment-based visas, and we welcome applicants on F-1 OPT and STEM-OPT. Work authorization is required at start; we provide immigration support to secure or transfer status.
Equal OpportunityDensityAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age (40+), sexual orientation, military or veteran status, pregnancy, or any other status protected by law. We comply with the California CROWN Act and provide reasonable accommodations on request.