Fractional CPA — Hard Tech Startup (QuickBooks, GAAP, R&D Credits)

We’re a New York–based hard tech startup (under 5 FTEs) working on advanced computing and energy technology and preparing to scale later this year. We’re looking for a hands-on, versatile CPA to set up our core accounting systems, handle early-stage bookkeeping, and own GAAP reporting and tax preparation. This role starts very operational and will evolve as we hire a dedicated accountant/controller. Scope of Work • Work with the founding team to build an Excel (or similar) budget for the company to account for R&D development, startup funding and scaling scenarios over the next two years • Set up and manage QuickBooks cloud (accrual accounting) • Implement expense cards (RAMP, BREX), purchasing, and basic controls and connect them into QuickBooks • Build and maintain monthly & quarterly GAAP financials (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow) for investors • Perform or oversee basic bookkeeping initially (AP, reconciliations, expense categorization) • Track R&D, lab space, supplies, and prototype expenses • Handle CapEx equipment purchases and capitalization policies • Prepare or oversee federal and NY state tax filings • Lead R&D tax credit documentation and filings • Help design scalable finance processes as we grow Requirements • Active CPA license (NY preferred) • Experience with early-stage startups, ideally hard tech, hardware, or R&D-heavy companies • Strong GAAP knowledge and comfort being hands-on • Proven experience with R&D tax credits • QuickBooks proficiency • Able to work independently in a lean startup environment Engagement • Part-time / fractional initially • Flexible hours • Long-term potential as the company scales Experience • Active CPA license • Experience with hard tech, hardware, science based startups with • Familiarity with lab, prototype, or manufacturing expenses • Experience tracking and capitalizing CapEx equipment purchases • Prior work with investor or board reporting Nice to have • Prior work with investor or board reporting • Experience scaling a startup seed → Series A • Knowledge of inventory, BOMs, or cost accounting • Experience with grants (SBIR/STTR, DOE, DARPA, etc.) • Familiarity with expense tools (Ramp, Brex, etc.)