Assistant Controller

Element Science, Inc. is a medical device and digital health company focused on developing solutions at the intersection of clinical-grade wearables, machine learning algorithms, and lifesaving therapies in order to address leading causes of death and hospitalization in patients with heart disease, primarily as they transition from the hospital-to-home. By putting the needs of patients and physicians first, our personalized digital devices, which are designed for function, comfort, and ease-of-use, aim to redefine the paradigm of care for these patients. Our first product, a wearable patch defibrillator, is initially targeted at treating the more than 500,000 patients in the US with an elevated temporary risk of potentially experiencing a lethal heart rhythm. Based in San Francisco, our funders include Third Rock Ventures, Google Ventures, Deerfield Healthcare, Qiming Venture Partners USA, Cormorant Asset Management, and Invus Opportunities.

SUMMARY OF ROLE:

The Assistant Controller will be a key hands-on leader in scaling our accounting and finance functions while ensuring compliance with technical accounting standards. This role emphasizes technical accounting expertise, system implementation, and strategic planning for growth. You will ensure that our accounting processes and internal controls are robust and scalable, supporting rapid expansion in a fast-paced environment.

Our ideal candidate will bring a solid background in technical accounting, particularly in the medical device, life sciences, or hardware/manufacturing industries. We're seeking someone who is hands-on and detail-oriented but also ready to take the next step in their career by helping us strategize for future growth.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Accounting Operations, including Billing, A/R, A/P, GL and Counsel, and Revenue Recognition.

• Owning the month-end and year-end close process, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting while identifying opportunities for efficiency improvements.

• Create, document, and refine business processes and accounting policies to strengthen internal controls, mitigate risks, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

• Ensure the integrity and accuracy of financial records, with a strong emphasis on managing and tracking inventory costs and their impact on the financial statements.

• Implement and maintain high-quality standards in financial transactions and reporting, ensuring accuracy and consistency in all financial data.

• Prepare and publish timely monthly financial statements to the executive team and board of directors, providing insights that inform strategic decision-making.

• Lead the preparation of budgets and financial forecasts, analyze variances, and provide recommendations to align financial performance with company goals.

• Prepare and manage all regulatory reporting and research technical accounting issues to ensure compliance.

• Manage and comply with local, state, and federal government reporting requirements, including all tax filings and regulations.

• As the company grows, hire, mentor, and manage a team of accounting and finance professionals as the company scales, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.

• Lead the successful implementation and optimization of QuickBooks Enterprise, ensuring a smooth transition from existing systems and aligning the platform with the company's financial reporting needs.

• Oversee the development and refinement of the company's expense reporting process, ensuring accuracy, compliance with company policies, and timely reimbursements.

• Develop, document, and implement comprehensive accounting policies and procedures to enhance operational efficiency and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

• Conduct in-depth analyses to establish new financial thresholds, aligning with the company's growth and changing financial landscape. Provide insights that support strategic decision-making.

• Work cross-functionally on the automation and integration of payroll and benefits systems, streamlining processes and improving payroll accuracy and benefits administration.

• Oversee the automation and integration of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) systems with accounting platforms, ensuring seamless banking transactions and real-time financial reporting.

• Implement and manage the Fixed Assets module, ensuring accurate tracking, depreciation, and reporting of company assets in alignment with accounting standards and financial goals.

• Additional financial planning and accounting responsibilities as needed in a startup environment.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Significant track record (10+ years or more) of progressive experience in both accounting and finance combined, preferred, particularly for leadership roles in a growing organization or startup environment.

• Proven professional experience at a privately held, medical device, life science and/or large enterprise technology companies.

• Thorough, practical knowledge of accounting principles and procedures.

• Experience with creating financial statements, general ledger functions, and the month-end/year-end close process.

• Expertise in budget preparation, financial forecasting, and variance analysis: Key skills for preparing financial reports and making data-driven decisions.

• Experience with QuickBooks Enterprise, ERP systems, and financial reporting tools. Hands-on knowledge of accounting software and financial management tools for handling complex operations.

• Proven experience in hiring, leading, and developing accounting and finance teams.

• Ability to work closely with other departments such as operations, legal, and senior leadership to align financial operations with business strategies.

• Ability to navigate and adapt in a fast-paced, evolving environment with broad and changing responsibilities.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a closely related field is highly preferred.

• CPA or significant progress toward obtaining certification is a plus.

• Previous Big 4 Audit Experience is a plus.

BENEFITS:

Element Science offers a very competitive salary and benefits package including, but not limited to:

• Stock Options

• 90% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance

• Company-paid Basic Life Insurance

• 401(k) retirement plan (Traditional and Roth)

• Competitive Paid Time Off

• Paid Holidays

• FSA (Flexible Spending Accounts)

• HSA (Health Savings Account)

• Employee Assistance Program through PEO

The salary for this exempt-level position will be based on experience and qualifications within an established pay range.

• Pay range: $190,000 - $220,000 + Annual Bonus

Element Science is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All candidates will be evaluated on the basis of their qualifications for the job in question. We do not base our employment decision on an employee's or applicant's race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit-based factors prohibited by local, state, or federal law.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. We are not able to sponsor individuals for employment visas for this job.

At this time, we are unable to offer relocation assistance at Element Science.