Chief Accounting Officer-Contract

Chief Accounting Officer

Location: Contra Costa County, CA
Duration: 3 + Month Contract
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Compensation: $155 per hr to $170 per hr DOE
Reports to: Chief Financial Officer   Direct Reports: Yes
Travel: 0–10%

Position Overview

Chief Accounting Officer (CAO) shall provide senior-level leadership across accounting, financial reporting, regulatory compliance, payroll, and internal controls. This executive will oversee a broad accounting organization, strengthen the financial control environment, ensure compliance with U.S. GAAP and regulatory requirements, and lead initiatives that improve operational efficiency.

The ideal candidate will bring extensive accounting leadership experience, strong technical accounting expertise, public-company exposure, and a proven track record at the Controller or CAO level.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee Accounting, Payroll, Regulatory Reporting, Loan Accounting, and SOX/Financial Controls functions.
• Direct the preparation and review of accurate, timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting.
• Ensure compliance with U.S. GAAP, regulatory requirements, and applicable accounting standards.
• Serve as the primary internal contact for external and regulatory auditors and ensure audit-ready documentation.
• Maintain and enhance the organization’s SOX/financial control framework.
• Evaluate and implement new technical accounting standards, policies, procedures, and disclosure requirements.
• Lead accounting integration and consolidation activities related to mergers, acquisitions, or other organizational changes.
• Partner with senior leadership on strategic accounting initiatives, special projects, and process improvements.
• Assess accounting systems and processes to improve accuracy, efficiency, controls, and reporting capabilities.
• Lead, develop, and mentor accounting and finance teams, including hiring, performance management, and professional development.
• Support operational audits and identify opportunities to strengthen processes, reduce risk, and improve financial performance.

Required Qualifications

• CPA required.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field preferred; equivalent experience may be considered.
• 10+ years of progressive finance and accounting experience.
• Previous experience with a publicly traded company.
• Proven experience operating at the Controller or Chief Accounting Officer level.
• 5+ years of people leadership and management experience.
• Strong expertise in technical accounting, financial reporting, GAAP, SOX, and regulatory compliance.
• Experience managing complex accounting operations and financial controls.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and enterprise/general ledger systems.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.