Cost Accounting Manager

THE COMPANY

Saildrone is a maritime defense company and the global leader in autonomous unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). With more ocean miles and real-world operational experience than any USV manufacturer or operator, Saildrone maintains active, combat-deployed systems supporting national security and force projection around the world, 24/7/365.

Saildrone’s manufacturing and R&D headquarters are located in Alameda, CA, with business development and sales operations in Washington, DC, and deployment hubs in Europe and the Middle East. By combining proven autonomous operations, edge computing, advanced sensing, renewable power, and the most advanced and robust unmanned surface technology on the planet, Saildrone is shaping how the Navy of the future operates. Join a fast-moving, mission-driven team at the forefront of maritime security and autonomous innovation.

THE POSITION

Saildrone is seeking a Cost Accounting Manager to join our Finance organization and support the continued scaling of our global manufacturing and fleet operations. This role will own cost accounting operations, ensure accurate inventory valuation and cost of goods sold, and build scalable processes that support production, supply chain, and mission execution growth.

This is a hands-on leadership role in a fast-moving, hardware-enabled technology environment. The Cost Accounting Manager will drive cost visibility across vehicle builds, strengthen inventory controls, and support compliance requirements aligned with government and defense customers. We are looking for a disciplined, detail-oriented operator who thrives in ambiguity, builds structure where it doesn’t exist, and elevates cost discipline across a scaling organization.

THE TEAM

The Finance team ensures Saildrone’s financial foundation scales with global deployments and advanced technology development. We partner closely with Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Engineering, and FP&A to deliver accurate, timely financial insights that support operations in a national security and defense environment.

THE RESPONSIBILITIES

Own and manage standard costing, including development, maintenance, and variance analysis across materials, labor, and overhead.

Oversee inventory accounting across raw materials, WIP, and finished goods, ensuring accuracy and compliance.

Analyze and report purchase price variance (PPV), production variances, and inventory reserves.

Partner with Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Engineering to track cost drivers and improve unit economics.

Support month-end close with focus on inventory, COGS, and cost-related journal entries.

Strengthen inventory controls and documentation to support audit readiness, including potential DoD-related compliance frameworks.

Lead physical inventory processes, cycle counts, and reconciliation activities.

Improve accounting systems, automation, and cost reporting workflows within NetSuite.

Build, lead, and develop a team supporting cost accounting and inventory operations.

Provide analytical support to Finance Leadership as needed.

THE QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance required.

CPA with experience in Public Accounting or Audit a strong plus.

8–12+ years of progressive accounting experience, including strong cost accounting experience in a manufacturing or hardware-based technology environment.

Experience with inventory accounting, WIP, standard costing, and variance analysis required.

Experience with government contracts, defense customers, or regulated environments preferred.

Hands-on ERP experience (NetSuite strongly preferred).

Strong communication skills with the ability to partner across technical and operational teams.