Assistant Controller

About xAI

xAI’s mission is to create AI systems that can accurately understand the universe and aid humanity in its pursuit of knowledge. Our team is small, highly motivated, and focused on engineering excellence. This organization is for individuals who appreciate challenging themselves and thrive on curiosity. We operate with a flat organizational structure. All employees are expected to be hands-on and to contribute directly to the company’s mission. Leadership is given to those who show initiative and consistently deliver excellence. Work ethic and strong prioritization skills are important. All engineers are expected to have strong communication skills. They should be able to concisely and accurately share knowledge with their teammates.

About the role:

As the Assistant Controller at xAI, you will be the key deputy to the Controller, supporting the senior accounting leadership in our Palo Alto office. You will help manage daily financial operations, ensure accuracy and compliance, and contribute to scaling our accounting function in a fast-paced environment.

Key responsibilities include:

• Assisting in the preparation of financial statements, audits, tax compliance, and regulatory filings under GAAP and SEC guidelines.
• Leading cash management and disbursements.
• Implementing and maintaining internal controls, accounting systems, and risk management processes.
• Collaborating with the Controller and cross-functional teams on financial reporting
• Mentoring junior accounting staff and handling operational tasks in a dynamic, high-growth setting.

Who You Are:

You are a detail-oriented, analytical professional who excels as a reliable second-in-command, thriving in a scrappy startup atmosphere where adaptability is key. With strong numerical acumen and a proactive mindset, you enjoy diving into complex data while supporting strategic goals. You're collaborative, eager to learn, and comfortable rolling up your sleeves to deliver precise results in ambiguous, fast-evolving situations.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; Master's degree or MBA a plus.
• CPA certification preferred; other certifications like CMA or CGMA advantageous.
• 7-10 years of progressive accounting experience, including senior roles in a tech company.
• Experience in both enterprise and consumer sectors, with knowledge of tech accounting practices (e.g., revenue recognition, R&D accounting).
• Proficiency in accounting systems (e.g., QuickBooks, NetSuite, SAP), advanced Excel, and financial tools like Tableau.
• Proven ability to support accounting teams in fast-paced, dynamic organizations.
• Strong communication skills for delivering financial insights to leadership and stakeholders.

Annual Salary Range

$160,000 - $225,000

Benefits

Base salary is just one part of our total rewards package at xAI, which also includes equity, comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and various other discounts and perks.

xAI is an equal opportunity employer.