Title: Controller /CPA Accountant
Reports To: CEO/Founder
Position Type: Full Time - Exempt Employee

POSITION SUMMARY
We are seeking a bilingual and experienced Controller preferred Certified Public Accountant (CPA) but not required, to lead and oversee all financial, tax, and regulatory compliance functions related to our operations. This position requires a strong command of accounting principles, compliance with California state regulations, and management of unique seasonal cash flows.
The ideal candidate will have advanced experience in accounts payable and receivable, payroll and bank reconciliations, cost tracking, budgeting, insurance administration, and tax filing. This professional will play a key role in financial strategy, audit readiness, and provide operational and accounting support to executive and ownership teams.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Financial Oversight and Strategy
•  Lead annual and seasonal budgeting in line with production cycles.
•  Forecast and manage cash flows considering labor, operations, and development trends.
•  Conduct cost and ROI analysis for land, equipment, and infrastructure investments.
•  Provide financial models and guidance for executive decision-making.

2. Payable and Receivable Accounts
•  Reconcile vendor invoices related to agricultural supplies, labor, and equipment.
•  Manage payment schedules, early payment discounts, and vendor relationships.
•  Generate and track customer invoices for services rendered.
•  Maintain aging reports for receivables and resolve outstanding payment issues.

3. Payroll and Labor Compliance
•  Ensure compliance with California labor laws, including documentation and tax filings:
o Weekly Reports: 943 EFTPS
o Monthly Reports: EFTPS 940, EDD DE88, Workers Compensation Insurance
o Quarterly Reports: EDD DE9, DE9C
o Annual Reports: IRS, SSA, EDD, CDFA
o Execute annual tax closings and issue W-2s and 1099s.

4. Cost Tracking and Budget Management
•  Allocate and monitor expenses per agricultural property (owned or leased).
•  Maintain detailed records of costs related to operations, labor, maintenance, and equipment.
•  Create financial summaries and weekly updates for General Management.
•  Collaborate with vineyard managers on cost projections and seasonal planning.

5. General Accounting and Tax Compliance
•  Maintain the general ledger and execute monthly, quarterly, and annual closings.
•  Prepare and submit required tax filings, including:
o Bank reconciliations by entity and period
o 1099s
o Form 720 (Environmental Taxes)
o Federal and state corporate tax returns
•  Ensure compliance with IRS, FTB, CDFA, and SSA.

6. Insurance and Regulatory Filings
•  Manage liability and general insurance policies and claims.
•  Prepare documentation for insurance audits and coordinate renewals.
•  Submit annual filings to the California Secretary of State.

7. Audits and Internal Controls
•  Coordinate internal and external financial audits.
•  Design and maintain effective internal controls over financial records and inventory.
•  Conduct quarterly cost risk assessments and implement corrective actions as needed.

8. Technology, Systems, and Process Improvement
•  Lead the implementation and integration of accounting systems such as QuickBooks Online, AgCode, and Datatech.
•  Enhance reporting tools using Excel and dashboard systems.
•  Recommend automation strategies to streamline accounting workflows.
• 
9. Grants, Government Programs, and ESG Reporting
•  Support the application and tracking of USDA, CDFA, and conservation grant programs.
•  Monitor expenditures of government funds and ensure compliance with grant conditions.
•  Participate in sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting.

10. Cross Departmental Communication and Leadership
•  Serve as a financial liaison between executives, vendors, regulatory agencies, and insurers.
•  Communicate professionally in both English and Spanish, in writing and speaking.
•  Lead or support internal accounting staff and collaborate with legal and operations teams.

REQUIREMENTS
•  Controller Preferred Active CPA License – State of California (but not Required)
•  Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related field
•  3 to 5 years of accounting experience.
•  Advanced proficiency in:
o QuickBooks Online, AgCode, Datatech
o Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, financial models)
•  Familiarity with:
o California tax regulations
o Regulatory agencies: USDA, CDFA, EPA, TTB
•  Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish (Required)
•  Exceptional analytical, organizational, and communication skills
•  Ability to lead and coordinate accounting tasks in dynamic, seasonal environments
•  Proactive and collaborative attitude

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
•  Primarily office-based with occasional visits to agricultural sites
•  Frequent use of computers and standard office equipment
•  Ability to lift file boxes (up to 25 lbs)
•  Ability to walk on uneven terrain during field inspections or audits
•  Constant communication via phone, email, and in-person meetings