Accounting Associate (m/w/d)

Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a faster and simpler approach to commercializing fusion energy. The company is reinventing the stellarator using computer-controlled arrays of planar coils thereby replacing the intricate, complex modular magnets required in all other stellarator architectures. Thea Energy is on a mission to create a limitless source of zero emission energy for a sustainable future.

Position Overview

Thea Energy is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Accounting Manager to join its rapidly growing team. In this role, you will own the corporate accounting function and drive day-to-day operations. You will partner closely with leadership to implement a scalable financial infrastructure, manage strategic procurement workflows, and build robust internal controls. The ideal candidate brings expertise in US GAAP and the ability to execute an accurate, timely financial close while delivering precise reporting to support FP&A, investor relations, and tax incentive optimization. Thea Energy's dynamic team is made up of self-motivated individuals with an excitement for solving complex problems.

Key Responsibility Areas

• Own the corporate accounting function and complete timely, accurate month-end and year-end financial closes.
• Architect and oversee the end-to-end procurement process, from vendor onboarding and purchase order (PO) management to the accurate and timely processing of accounts payable.
• Lead the implementation of a scalable financial infrastructure (ERP/Procurement tools) built on robust systems and processes.
• Prepare comprehensive financial statements, manage accounting data feeding business insights, and assist in preparing board decks and investor reporting materials.
• Collaborate with FP&A to conduct variance analysis, understand spend velocity, and prepare quarterly and annual cash forecasts.
• Lead grant and debt administration, ensuring adherence to compliance requirements, including reporting and the preparation of reimbursement requests for government or private funding.
• Maintain the fixed asset register to track R&D capital expenditures.
• Ensure GAAP compliance and audit readiness, and coordinate with external partners to manage federal, state, and local tax filings.
• Oversee internal controls to mitigate financial risk and develop standard operating procedures for all accounting and procurement workflows.
• Lead the preparation and documentation for Federal and State R&D Tax Credits; collaborate with engineering teams to capture qualifying activities and costs to maximize tax incentives. Oversee multi-state sales and use tax compliance and manage exemption certificates for R&D-related purchases.

Ideal Experience & Skillsets

• 5+ years of corporate accounting experience with a degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (CPA preferred).
• Strong background in general ledger management and financial reporting, with a deep understanding of GAAP compliance and audit readiness (experience in a hard-tech, manufacturing, or engineering environments is ideal).
• Advanced proficiency in accounting software/ERPs and Excel to support the financial close, data analysis, and reporting.
• Familiarity with procurement software and the integration of PO systems with the general ledger.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to work collaboratively across cross-functional teams to support FP&A activities.
• Proven experience documenting and preparing R&D Tax Credit claims, including labor allocation and qualifying research expenses (QREs).
• Proven organizational skills to effectively oversee internal controls and document standard operating procedures.
• A track record of thriving in a fast-paced, dynamic startup environment, demonstrating an exceptional work ethic, and the ability to take initiative.
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• East coast hours are required.

Company Benefits

• Salary range $120,000-$145,000
• Comprehensive health benefits (e.g. medical/dental/vision)
• Employee equity stock options
• 20 days PTO

It's not necessary to meet all of the skillsets outlined above. Please feel free to send us a note and tell us why you would still be a great fit for this role or Thea Energy.

Diversity and Inclusion

Thea Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a company of diverse backgrounds. By creating a diverse environment, we will bring new ideas and approaches to solving some of the world's hardest (and most important) problems. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, family or marital status, age, disability, veteran's status, or other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.