Accounting Lead

About the Role

Linear is a remote-first company, valuing deep focus and async collaboration, with intentional moments to connect in person. This role offers the opportunity to work from anywhere in North America, with a culture that prioritizes remote work and flexibility.

The accounting team at Linear is poised for growth, and as the first in-house Accounting Lead, you will have the chance to build and lead a small team of accountants. Your technical expertise in accounting, combined with your ability to manage and mentor, will be crucial in driving the team's success.

What You Will Do

• Own the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process, including financial statements, reconciliations, journal entries, and flux analysis.
• Develop and implement the company's accounting infrastructure from scratch, including the chart of accounts, close cadence, internal controls, and accounting policies.
• Lead the annual audit process and ensure the company remains audit-ready throughout the year.
• Manage tax compliance, payroll accounting, and entity-level filings, ensuring all financial operations are aligned with business objectives.
• Collaborate with the Finance, Legal, and People teams to ensure financial operations are integrated with the overall business strategy.
• Identify and automate manual processes where possible, and document processes that require a human touch.
• Eventually hire and manage a small team of accountants, providing guidance and oversight to ensure the team's success.
• Partner with external auditors and ensure the company's financial statements are accurate and compliant with regulatory requirements.
• Develop and maintain a deep understanding of the company's financial performance, providing insights and recommendations to senior leadership.

What We Are Looking For

• 8+ years of progressive accounting experience, with significant time spent in a high-growth SaaS company.
• Strong technical command of US GAAP, including SaaS revenue recognition (ASC 606) and equity-based compensation; CPA certification is preferred.
• Experience owning a full-cycle close and managing external audits from start to finish.
• Ability to build processes, controls, and policies from scratch, without relying on pre-existing playbooks.
• Experience managing or mentoring accountants, or clear readiness to take on these responsibilities.
• Proficiency in ERP platforms, with experience evaluating or implementing new ERPs being a strong plus.
• Sharp attention to detail, combined with the ability to communicate complex financial concepts to non-accountants.
• Sound judgment on prioritizing tasks and projects, with the ability to sequence initiatives effectively.

Nice to Have

• Experience with financial planning and analysis, particularly in a SaaS environment.
• Knowledge of tax laws and regulations in North America, with the ability to apply this knowledge in a practical setting.
• Familiarity with accounting software and tools, such as QuickBooks or Xero.
• Certification in a related field, such as CMA or CISA.

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary and equity package, with employee-friendly equity terms including early exercise in the US and extended exercise windows.
• Daily meal and coffee stipend on every workday, to support your remote work lifestyle.
• Paid co-working space or desk, to provide a professional environment when needed.
• Comprehensive health coverage, based on country requirements, to ensure your well-being.
• 5 weeks paid vacation, plus local statutory holidays, to support work-life balance.
• 4 months paid parental leave, to support new parents.
• Paid month off after 4 years & every 2 years thereafter, to recognize long-term commitment.
• Regular team events and off-sites, to foster connection and community among remote team members.
• Remote-first work environment, with no required commute, to offer flexibility and autonomy.

• Develop a strong understanding of US GAAP and SaaS revenue recognition principles to stand out in your application.
• Showcase your ability to build and manage accounting processes from scratch, highlighting any experience with ERP platforms.
• Prepare to discuss how you would automate manual accounting tasks and implement efficient financial controls.
• Emphasize your experience with external audits and your ability to ensure audit readiness throughout the year.
• Be ready to explain how you would communicate complex financial concepts to non-accounting stakeholders, including senior leadership.
• Highlight any experience with tax compliance and payroll accounting, particularly in a SaaS environment.
• Showcase your leadership skills, including any experience managing or mentoring accountants, to demonstrate your readiness for this role.