Controller
$140k - $180k USD
The Role
Gaia is looking for an experienced, highly technical Controller to own and strengthen our core accounting and financial operations as we continue to scale as a US-based company. This is a critical leadership role for someone who is hands-on, detail-oriented, and brings strong technical accounting judgment in a fast-paced startup environment.
The Controller will report to the CFO and will be responsible for the integrity of our financials, the monthly close process, audit readiness, and building scalable accounting processes across the business. This role will partner closely with cross-functional leaders and play a key role in supporting investor reporting, decision-making, and compliance as we grow.
This is a US-based role.
Who You Are
You are a CPA with deep technical accounting expertise and high standards for accuracy and quality. You take ownership of your work end to end and are comfortable rolling up your sleeves in a lean environment. You are thoughtful about process, understand the “why” behind accounting decisions, and can balance technical rigor with business pragmatism.
You thrive in ambiguity, enjoy building and improving systems, and are confident pushing back when something is not right. You are organized, deadline-driven, and comfortable working closely with leadership in a high-growth company.
What You Will Do
Own the monthly close process end to end, ensuring timely, accurate financial statements
Maintain the integrity of the general ledger, including reconciliations, journal entries, and accounting policies
Lead preparation for annual audits and manage relationships with external auditors and tax advisors
Ensure compliance with US GAAP and maintain strong internal controls
Oversee accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll accounting, and expense management
Review and analyze monthly operating expenses and budget variances, identifying trends, risks, and areas for improvement
Partner with Finance leadership on financial reporting, including monthly and quarterly investor reporting
Own intercompany accounting and reconciliations, as applicable
Support tax compliance and filings in partnership with external advisors
Collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, Product, Tech, People, and other teams to ensure financial accuracy and alignment
Identify, design, and implement process improvements to increase efficiency, accuracy, and scalability
Help transition and stabilize accounting operations from existing contractors and legacy processes
What We Are Looking For
Active CPA required
7+ years of progressive accounting experience, including Controller or Assistant Controller experience
Deep technical accounting expertise and strong knowledge of US GAAP
Proven experience owning the close process and audit management
High attention to detail with a strong sense of accountability
Ability to operate both strategically and hands-on in a startup or high-growth environment
Strong analytical skills with the ability to communicate complex financial information clearly
Experience working with modern accounting systems (Xero experience a plus)
Experience with multi-entity or group accounting and consolidations
Exposure to fintech, lending, insurance, or regulated financial products is a strong plus
Compensation and Benefits
The base salary range for this role is $140,000–$180,000, depending on experience and alignment with the role.
At Gaia, our people are the foundation of our success. We are committed to supporting our team’s wellbeing, growth, and long-term potential.
In addition to a competitive, market-benchmarked salary, we offer:
Comprehensive healthcare coverage
Fertility and family-building support
A home office or setup budget for new hires
An annual personal development budget
Ongoing work on reward and recognition programs to ensure exceptional performance is meaningfully acknowledged
Gaia is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in all forms. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.