The Role
Hands-on Controller to build and scale finance operations: implement accounting systems, internal controls, and ERP; manage payroll, treasury, AR/AP; deliver GAAP-compliant reporting, budgeting, and forecasts; support fundraising and strategic financial planning while working with external accountants.
Summary Generated by Built In
About Phoenix Tailings
Phoenix Tailings is a rapidly growing clean mining and metals production startup dedicated to sustainable and economic critical metals production. Our mission is to be the world's first fully clean mining and metals production company, producing the resources needed for the next generation of our economy.
Why Phoenix Tailings
At Phoenix, we believe that nothing great is ever accomplished alone or without the passion of people who push and motivate one another. If you are someone who shares our relentless pursuit of a better future, passion for innovation, and are excited about working with some of the top innovators in the world, then this is the place for you.
Our Values:
● You are only crazy if you are wrong, it’s ok to be wrong
● Lead with Compassion
● Be Resourceful
● Listen
● Hustle
Who We Are Looking For:
We are seeking a hands-on, strategic Controller to build and scale our financial operations from the ground up. You will design and implement the company’s financial infrastructure, create scalable accounting processes, and provide key financial insights to leadership and investors. You’ll own everything from day-to-day accounting to high-level strategic planning, ensuring our startup’s financial systems can support rapid growth.
The ideal candidate has previously built financial systems at a startup, thrives in fast-paced, unstructured environments, and is excited to take ownership of finance operations from scratch. Experience in technology, manufacturing, or deep-tech industries is a plus.
Key Responsibilities:
- Build and implement all financial systems, accounting policies, and internal controls to support a high-growth startup.
- Own financial reporting—ensure accurate, real-time financial insights for leadership and investors.
- Develop and maintain scalable budgeting and forecasting models, aligning financial plans with business objectives.
- Manage all financial operations, including payroll, treasury, vendor payments, cash flow management, and accounts receivable/payable.
- Select and implement financial software (ERP, accounting tools, FP&A models) to streamline processes.
- Ensure GAAP compliance, tax filings, and regulatory adherence while working with external accountants.
- Act as a strategic partner to leadership, providing financial insights to guide company growth, fundraising, and capital allocation.
- Identify and mitigate financial risks, ensuring the company is set up for long-term financial success.
Qualifications:
- 5+ years of experience in a senior financial role at a startup, preferably as a first finance hire.
- Proven track record of building financial systems from scratch, including accounting processes and reporting frameworks.
- Strong understanding of GAAP accounting, financial modeling, and startup cash flow management.
- Experience selecting and implementing financial software (NetSuite is ideal, SAP, or similar ERP systems).
- Ability to thrive in ambiguity—excited to build, iterate, and optimize in a fast-moving startup.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to translate financial data into strategic recommendations.
- CPA or strong accounting background preferred but not required.
- Experience in technology, manufacturing, or deep-tech industries is a plus.
We offer a competitive compensation package that is based on expertise. We also offer the following benefits:
- Healthcare: 100% Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employee
- Stock Options: Ownership in a fast-growing venture-backed company.
- Time Off: Unlimited PTO.
- Learning: Learning and development opportunities to grow your skills and career.
This pay range reflects best estimate for the total cash compensation which includes salary + discretionary bonus for this role. Total package may vary based on experience and qualifications.
Pay Range: $150,000- $200,000 total cash compensation plus equity
At Phoenix Tailings, we have an open culture that values learning, and we are looking to grow the team with enthusiastic individuals who share our vision of sustainable mining.
Phoenix Tailings, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we value diversity at all levels. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, age, disability or genetic information, or any other applicable protected characteristics, and these characteristics will not be a factor for consideration of any work-related decisions (including but not limited to hiring, firing, compensation, and discipline).
Skills Required
- 5+ years of experience in a senior financial role at a startup, preferably as a first finance hire
- Proven track record of building financial systems, accounting processes, and reporting frameworks from scratch
- Strong understanding of GAAP accounting, financial modeling, and startup cash flow management
- Experience selecting and implementing financial software (NetSuite ideal, SAP or similar ERP systems)
- Ability to thrive in ambiguity and build, iterate, and optimize in a fast-moving startup environment
- Strong communication and collaboration skills; ability to translate financial data into strategic recommendations
- CPA or strong accounting background
- Experience in technology, manufacturing, or deep-tech industries
Am I A Good Fit?
Get Personalized Job Insights.
Our AI-powered fit analysis compares your resume with a job listing so you know if your skills & experience align.
Success! Refresh the page to see how your skills align with this role.
The Company
What We Do
Phoenix Tailings is a rare earth metals production company dedicated to restoring U.S. industrial independence by building domestic refining capacity. The company aims to redefine the industry as the first fully clean mining and metals producer, using sustainable, net-zero technology to transform mining waste (tailings) into critical rare earth metals and alloys essential for modern technology, defense, and green energy infrastructure.
