Project Accountant Jobs in Los Angeles, CA

About the Company

Our client is a vertically integrated aerospace and defense precision manufacturer with a multi-decade track record supplying mission-critical, high-tolerance machined hardware, large complex assemblies, and finished components to leading aerospace, space, and defense customers. Now backed by a global private-equity firm, the company is executing an ambitious growth and operational-excellence agenda and is investing in its people, systems, and capacity. This search is being conducted on a confidential basis. The hiring company’s identity will be shared with qualified candidates during the interview process.

Position Summary

The Accounting Manager owns the day-to-day accounting operations and the monthly close for the Company. Reporting to the VP, Finance, this hands-on leader is responsible for the general ledger, cost accounting, accounts payable and receivable, payroll coordination, and audit support in a fast-paced, high-mix manufacturing environment. This is an ideal role for a strong accountant ready to lead a team and help mature the accounting function inside a growing, private-equity-backed defense manufacturer.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the monthly, quarterly, and annual close, including journal entries, accruals, and account reconciliations, on a disciplined calendar.
• Own the general ledger and chart of accounts; ensure GAAP-compliant, accurate, and timely financial records.
• Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll coordination; manage cash application and vendor/customer issue resolution.
• Maintain standard-cost and inventory accounting, including cycle-count reconciliation, work-in-process, variance analysis, and inventory valuation.
• Prepare monthly financial reporting packages and supporting schedules for the VP, Finance and sponsor.
• Administer fixed assets, depreciation, prepaids, and lease accounting.
• Lead the annual financial audit and support tax, sales/use tax, and regulatory filings.
• Strengthen accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls; drive process improvement and automation within the ERP.
• Supervise, mentor, and develop accounting staff.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance.
• 6+ years of progressive accounting experience, including full-cycle close ownership.
• Manufacturing accounting experience with standard costing and inventory.
• Demonstrated supervisory or team-lead experience.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and internal controls; advanced Excel.

Preferred Qualifications

• CPA or CPA candidate.
• Experience in aerospace & defense or another regulated manufacturer.
• Epicor (Kinetic) ERP experience.
• Exposure to government-contract cost accounting and DCAA requirements.

Compensation & Benefits

Base salary range of $150,000 – $190,000, commensurate with experience, plus medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k), and paid time off. The posted range reflects the anticipated base pay for this role in California; actual compensation will depend on qualifications, experience, and internal equity.

Work Authorization & Eligibility

This position supports ITAR- and EAR-controlled programs. Applicants must be a “U.S. Person” as defined under 22 CFR §120.62 (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual). The facility is access-controlled and the role is subject to a background check and, for certain programs, eligibility for a U.S. government security clearance.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected-veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.