Fractional CPA — Hard Tech Startup (QuickBooks, GAAP, R&D Credits)
We’re a New York–based hard tech startup (under 5 FTEs) working on advanced computing and energy technology and preparing to scale later this year. We’re looking for a hands-on, versatile CPA to set up our core accounting systems, handle early-stage bookkeeping, and own GAAP reporting and tax preparation. This role starts very operational and will evolve as we hire a dedicated accountant/controller.
Scope of Work
- Work with the founding team to build an Excel (or similar) budget for the company to account for R&D development, startup funding and scaling scenarios over the next two years
- Set up and manage QuickBooks cloud (accrual accounting)
- Implement expense cards (RAMP, BREX), purchasing, and basic controls and connect them into QuickBooks
- Build and maintain monthly & quarterly GAAP financials (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow) for investors
- Perform or oversee basic bookkeeping initially (AP, reconciliations, expense categorization)
- Track R&D, lab space, supplies, and prototype expenses
- Handle CapEx equipment purchases and capitalization policies
- Prepare or oversee federal and NY state tax filings
- Lead R&D tax credit documentation and filings
- Help design scalable finance processes as we grow
Requirements
- Active CPA license (NY preferred)
- Experience with early-stage startups, ideally hard tech, hardware, or R&D-heavy companies
- Strong GAAP knowledge and comfort being hands-on
- Proven experience with R&D tax credits
- QuickBooks proficiency
- Able to work independently in a lean startup environment
Engagement
- Part-time / fractional initially
- Flexible hours
- Long-term potential as the company scales
Experience
- Active CPA license
- Experience with hard tech, hardware, science based startups with
- Familiarity with lab, prototype, or manufacturing expenses
- Experience tracking and capitalizing CapEx equipment purchases
- Prior work with investor or board reporting
Nice to have
- Prior work with investor or board reporting
- Experience scaling a startup seed → Series A
- Knowledge of inventory, BOMs, or cost accounting
- Experience with grants (SBIR/STTR, DOE, DARPA, etc.)
- Familiarity with expense tools (Ramp, Brex, etc.)
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