Interim Fractional Controller (Contractor)

Utilidata is a fast-growing NVIDIA-backed edge AI company enabling greater visibility and control of power utilization in energy-intensive infrastructure, like the electric grid and data centers. Karman, the company’s distributed AI platform powered by a custom NVIDIA module, is transforming the way utility companies operate the grid edge and will enable data centers to unlock more compute for the same provisioned power.

We are seeking an experienced Interim Fractional Controller (Contractor) to provide parental leave coverage for our Director, Finance & Accounting. This role will own financial governance, compliance, and accounting oversight during a critical period of growth. The ideal start date is June 1, with a one-month onboarding period prior to the leave beginning July 1; the engagement runs approximately 20 weeks from that date. This contractor will serve as the senior finance lead during the coverage period, working closely with the VP, Finance & Operations and collaborating cross-functionally across the organization.

Responsibilities

• Financial Governance, Systems & Controls
  • Own GAAP-compliant books and manage the monthly close process
  • Ensure corporate, sales, and location tax compliance; maintain audit readiness; and monitor cash health
  • Serve as primary liaison to external auditors and tax advisors
  • Maintain and strengthen internal controls across financial operations
  • Manage finance policies and standard operating procedures
  • Oversee AR/AP, procurement, and credit card compliance — with day-to-day execution owned by the Finance & Accounting Operations Associate
• Equity & Investor Administration
  • Manage and maintain Carta and the cap table, including option pool tracking, preparing grants for Board approval, and issuing grants
  • Manage investor reporting requirements (e.g., monthly KPI and financial updates) and coordinate responses to routine investor information requests
• Accounting & Operational Finance Oversight
  • Recommend cash transfers for approval and monitor cash position for operational needs
  • Prepare and coordinate Budget vs. Actual reporting; support departmental budget alignment
  • Ensure documentation retention and finance-related compliance frameworks are maintained and audit-ready
  • Oversee payroll accounting integration and ensure payroll accuracy with execution owned by the Finance & Accounting Operations Associate

Minimum Qualifications 

• 8+ years in finance or accounting with demonstrated leadership of a finance or accounting function
• CPA strongly preferred
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Economics, or a related field
• Deep understanding of startup financial operations and GAAP accounting
• Experience with Carta, QuickBooks Online (QBO), and similar tools
• Familiarity with venture-backed startup environments
• Operationally focused with strong cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management skills
• Adaptable and self-directed — able to lead a function independently with limited ramp time

Enhanced Qualifications (Nice to Have) 

• Experience supporting audit or tax processes in a startup or high-growth environment
• Familiarity with hardware or deep tech company finance operations
• Prior experience in an interim, fractional, or contractor finance leadership role

Engagement Details

• Target start date: June 1; parental leave coverage begins July 1 and runs approximately 20 weeks
• Expected commitment: 20-25 hours per week, with flexibility as agreed
• Hourly rate: $125–200, depending on experience
• Remote from anywhere in the United States
• 1099 contractor; contractor provides their own equipment

Our Commitments:
Utilidata values the diversity of our team. We provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy or childbirth, sexual orientation, genetics, genetic information, marital status, or status as a covered veteran or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state and local laws.

We are committed to:

• Creating a diverse and inclusive workplace that is welcoming, supportive, affirming and respectful
• Empowering employees to solve problems and work together to make a difference
• Providing mentorship and growth opportunities as part of a collaborative team
• A flexible work environment with flexible paid time off
• Competitive compensation and benefits, including health, dental, vision, and employer-match 401k