Controller

Downstream Systems, Inc. is a leading marketplace platform that's transforming the waste and construction industries from the ground up. We're on a mission to bring simplicity, transparency, and sustainability to two of the most essential—but often overlooked—sectors of our economy.

At Downstream, we make it easy for contractors, builders, and businesses to find and book critical services like dumpster rentals, hauling, and site clean-up—all in just a few clicks. No more endless calls, confusing pricing, or waiting around. Our platform connects customers with vetted, reliable providers so they can get what they need, when they need it—without the headache.

But we’re not just about convenience—we’re about impact. By streamlining logistics and digitizing the supply chain, we’re helping reduce waste, cut emissions, and build a cleaner, more sustainable future for everyone. Whether you're managing a small job site or a major development project, Downstream is here to help you keep things moving—efficiently, affordably, and responsibly.

Let’s build better, together.

Role Specifics:

Downstream is seeking a Controller to own day-to-day accounting operations and ensure accurate, timely, GAAP-compliant financials as we scale. This role is both strategic and hands-on, supporting leadership with clean reporting, strong controls, and insights that drive better decisions.

You will be responsible for financial close, multi-state sales & use tax compliance, budgeting vs. actuals, and building scalable accounting processes for a high-growth marketplace.

Key Responsibilities:

Accounting & Financial Operations

• Own the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process
• Ensure GAAP-compliant financial statements (P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow)
• Oversee revenue recognition for a marketplace business model
• Manage accruals, prepaid expenses, and expense classification
• Maintain strong internal controls and accounting policies

Budgeting, Forecasting & Reporting

• Lead Budget vs. Actual reporting and variance analysis
• Partner with leadership on forecasting and cash-flow planning
• Prepare management reporting for executives and board meetings
• Support investor and lender reporting as needed

Multi-State Sales & Use Tax

• Own multi-state sales tax and use tax compliance
• Coordinate nexus determinations, filings, and remittances
• Manage sales-tax exemptions and documentation
• Work with external advisors and tax software providers as needed

AP / AR / Marketplace Complexity

• Oversee Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable processes
• Manage supplier payouts, accruals, and reconciliation timing
• Ensure accurate treatment of marketplace COGS vs. gross revenue
• Monitor aging schedules and support collections strategy

Systems, Process & Scale

• Own accounting systems (e.g., Xero)
• Improve close timelines, automation, and documentation
• Partner cross-functionally with Ops, Sales, and Product
• Support audits, tax filings, and future system upgrades

Qualifications:

Required

• 5–10+ years of accounting experience, including Controller or Senior Accounting Manager roles
• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP
• Hands-on experience with multi-state sales tax / use tax
• Experience with Budget vs. Actuals and variance analysis
• Strong understanding of accrual accounting
• Experience in high-growth, multi-entity, or multi-state environments

Preferred

• Experience in a marketplace, SaaS, fintech, or transactional platform
• CPA or CPA-eligible
• Experience supporting fundraising, audits, or lender reporting
• Familiarity with construction, logistics, or services-based businesses

What Success Looks Like

• Timely month-end close
• Clear visibility into margin, cash flow, and operating performance
• Sales tax compliance across all operating states
• Scalable accounting processes that grow with the business

Role-Specific Perks

• Be a key finance leader at a fast-growing marketplace
• High ownership and influence on how the company scales
• Partner closely with executive leadership
• Build systems and processes from the ground up
• Competitive compensation and meaningful equity opportunity

🌟 Ideal Team Member Profile at Downstream Systems, Inc.

At Downstream, we’re not just building a platform—we’re building a movement to modernize and elevate the waste and construction industries. That’s why we look for team members who are not only smart and capable but deeply aligned with the way we show up for each other, our customers, and suppliers. Our cultural beacons are more than values—they’re how we work, lead, and grow.

Here’s what a great Downstreamer looks like:

💥 Runs into the Gap

You don’t wait to be told. When you see a problem or an opportunity, you lean in with curiosity and energy. You’re proactive, resourceful, and comfortable working through ambiguity—because you know that growth often starts where things are messy.

🔎 Practices Radical Transparency

You communicate clearly, openly, and without ego. Whether you’re sharing feedback, surfacing a roadblock, or admitting a mistake, you do so with the trust that honesty drives progress. You don’t play games—you play as a team.

🛠️ Takes Pride in What You Do

You care deeply about the quality of your work and the experience of our customers. Whether you’re shipping code, solving a customer problem, or launching a new market, you bring thoughtfulness and craftsmanship to everything you touch. Excellence isn't a goal—it’s a habit.

🌱 Gives Others Confidence

You lift people up. You empower teammates with clear thinking, strong execution, and generous collaboration. You help others believe in their ability to succeed, and you create space for them to thrive. You lead with kindness and build trust by showing up consistently.

At Downstream, we’re a group of builders, thinkers, and doers who care as much about how we work as what we’re working on. If you're energized by solving real-world problems and being part of a company where values guide action—you’ll feel right at home. Let’s revolutionize this industry together.

💼 Downstream Employee Benefits

At Downstream, we believe in taking great care of our team—because when you’re supported, you can do your best work. Here’s a snapshot of the benefits we offer:

🩺 Comprehensive Health Coverage

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Health Savings Account (HSA) option for added flexibility

🛡️ Peace of Mind

• Life insurance coverage to help protect what matters most

💰 401(k) Retirement Plan

• Downstream matches up to 5% of your contributions:
• 100% match on the first 3%
• 50% match on the 4th and 5th percent

🌴 Generous Paid Vacation

• We offer a flexible, paid vacation policy so you can recharge when you need to

📈 Company Equity

• Be an owner in what we’re building with equity in the company