Fractional CPA — Hard Tech Startup (QuickBooks, GAAP, R&D Credits)

We’re a New York–based hard tech startup (under 5 FTEs) working on advanced computing and energy technology and preparing to scale later this year. We’re looking for a hands-on, versatile CPA to set up our core accounting systems, handle early-stage bookkeeping, and own GAAP reporting and tax preparation. This role starts very operational and will evolve as we hire a dedicated accountant/controller.

Scope of Work

• Work with the founding team to build an Excel (or similar) budget for the company to account for R&D development, startup funding and scaling scenarios over the next two years

• Set up and manage QuickBooks cloud (accrual accounting)

• Implement expense cards (RAMP, BREX), purchasing, and basic controls and connect them into QuickBooks

• Build and maintain monthly & quarterly GAAP financials (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow) for investors

• Perform or oversee basic bookkeeping initially (AP, reconciliations, expense categorization)

• Track R&D, lab space, supplies, and prototype expenses

• Handle CapEx equipment purchases and capitalization policies

• Prepare or oversee federal and NY state tax filings

• Lead R&D tax credit documentation and filings

• Help design scalable finance processes as we grow

Requirements

• Active CPA license (NY preferred)

• Experience with early-stage startups, ideally hard tech, hardware, or R&D-heavy companies

• Strong GAAP knowledge and comfort being hands-on

• Proven experience with R&D tax credits

• QuickBooks proficiency

• Able to work independently in a lean startup environment

Engagement

• Part-time / fractional initially

• Flexible hours

• Long-term potential as the company scales

Experience

• Active CPA license

• Experience with hard tech, hardware, science based startups with

• Familiarity with lab, prototype, or manufacturing expenses

• Experience tracking and capitalizing CapEx equipment purchases

• Prior work with investor or board reporting

Nice to have

• Prior work with investor or board reporting

• Experience scaling a startup seed → Series A

• Knowledge of inventory, BOMs, or cost accounting

• Experience with grants (SBIR/STTR, DOE, DARPA, etc.)

• Familiarity with expense tools (Ramp, Brex, etc.)

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