Who We Are
At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors — regardless of their defense budget — through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.
About the Role
We are seeking a Strategic FP&A Partner to help build and scale the financial foundation of a rapidly growing business. This role is focused on establishing structure, driving financial rigor, and creating the planning framework needed to support accelerated growth and operational complexity. You will own core forecasting, budgeting, and modeling processes while partnering closely with Business Development, Operations, and Engineering to connect financial outcomes to real-time business activity. This role sits at the intersection of strategy and execution, ensuring that pipeline, production, and program performance are translated into clear financial visibility and actionable insights.
The ideal candidate thrives in fast-moving environments, brings a strong command of financial modeling and planning, and is comfortable building structure where it does not yet exist. You will play a key role in shaping how the company plans, scales, and executes by aligning cross-functional inputs into a cohesive financial narrative that supports decision-making at all levels of the organization.
This is a high-impact role with direct exposure to leadership, offering the opportunity to influence both near-term execution and long-term growth strategy.
What You'll Do
- Forecast company orders, revenue, margins, and cash flow, incorporating government contract structures, funding profiles, and award timing
- Build and maintain integrated three-statement financial models (P&L, Balance Sheet, Cash Flow) to support forecasting and long-range planning
- Own and manage company-wide and departmental P&L budgeting, including headcount planning, operating expenses, and cost allocations
- Develop and maintain 3–5 year financial forecasts, aligning business strategy with long-term financial planning and capital needs
- Build and maintain forecasts tied to key cost drivers, including materials, labor, and external inputs such as tariffs and supply chain impacts
- Track and analyze cost fluctuations and margin drivers, providing visibility into risks and opportunities
- Support budgeting and forecasting cycles, ensuring accurate and timely financial projections across the business
- Prepare and deliver executive-level reporting, clearly communicating financial performance, program health, and strategic implications
- Support development of board-level materials, including long-range plans, operating plans, and program-level performance insights
- Monitor and track business unit performance, highlighting variances and driving actionable recommendations
- Partner cross-functionally with program finance, program managers, business development, engineering, and operations to provide forward-looking insights
- Support pipeline forecasting and conversion analysis, bridging Business Development inputs into Finance planning
- Develop and enhance financial models to support scenario analysis, investment decisions, and program profitability
- Generate reports and continuously improve financial processes, systems, and data workflows
- Leverage FP&A tools (e.g., UNANET, PowerBI or similar) to enhance forecasting, reporting, and automation
- Present financial insights to senior leadership in a clear, concise, and actionable manner
- Support ad hoc analysis and strategic finance initiatives as the business evolves
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, Mathematics, or a related field
- 5+ years of progressive & relevant experience in FP&A, strategic finance, or related roles
- U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations, with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance
- Strong experience in forecasting, budgeting, and financial modeling
- Advanced Excel skills with the ability to build robust, dynamic models
- Experience delivering executive-level reporting and insights
- Strong understanding of business performance drivers, including revenue, margins, and cost structures
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
- Strong communication skills with the ability to translate complex data into clear business insights
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience in U.S. defense, aerospace, or government contracting environments
- Understanding of contract structures (cost-plus, fixed-price, T&M) and their impact on forecasting and profitability
- Familiarity with FAR and financial implications of compliance in planning and reporting
- Experience supporting program finance, backlog, and pipeline forecasting
- Exposure to manufacturing or cost-focused environments, including materials and supply chain cost drivers
- Knowledge of ASC 606 revenue recognition, including application to defense and/or SaaS models
- Experience with financial systems, automation tools, or FP&A platforms (Anaplan or similar)
- Exposure to software business models (SaaS, licensing, usage-based revenue) is a plus
- Curiosity and openness to leveraging automation, AI, and data-driven tools to improve financial workflows
Work Environment
- This role is based in San Diego, CA.
- We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate.
This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and the physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about regularly throughout the day. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment.
Compensation
U.S. Range: $112,000 - $148,000
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Benefits & Perks
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
- We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
- Equity grants for new hires
- Unlimited PTO
- Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.
- Generous Parental Leave
- Lifestyle Spending Account
- FSA
- DCFSA
- HSA
- Hospital Indemnity insurance
- Critical Illness insurance
- Accident insurance
- Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
- Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
Export Control Compliance
To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.
Compensation details: 112000-148000 Yearly Salary
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