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 Controller at xAI, you will serve as the most senior accounting leader, overseeing all financial operations for xAI based in Palo Alto. Reporting directly to the CFO, you will drive accurate financial reporting, ensure regulatory compliance, and support strategic decision-making in a high-growth environment. Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the preparation of financial statements, audits, and tax filings in compliance with GAAP and SEC regulations.
• Overseeing internal controls, risk management, and accounting systems.
• Manage relationships with auditors, and other external advisors.
• Building and mentoring a lean accounting team in a dynamic, fast-paced setting.
• Foster a culture of truth seeking, sense of urgency and passion for excellence.

Who You Are:

You are a scrappy, hands-on leader who thrives in ambiguity. With exceptional analytical skills and a deep passion for numbers, you can dissect complex financial data to inform business strategy. You're adaptable, proactive, and excited about contributing to groundbreaking AI advancements at a startup where every decision counts. Ideal candidates are collaborative problem-solvers who can roll up their sleeves while maintaining precision in high-stakes environments.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred.
• CPA certification required; additional certifications like CMA or CGMA a plus.
• Minimum 10-12 years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 5 years as a Controller in a tech company.
• Proven track record in both enterprise and consumer sectors, with expertise in tech-specific accounting (e.g., revenue recognition for software/SaaS, R&D capitalization).
• Strong proficiency in accounting systems (e.g., QuickBooks, NetSuite, SAP), financial tools (e.g., Excel, Tableau), and GAAP/IFRS standards.
• Demonstrated leadership in building and scaling accounting teams in fast-paced, dynamic organizations.

Annual Salary Range

$210,000 - $300,000

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.

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