Finance and Payroll Accountant

Operating on oceans around the world from Victoria BC, Open Ocean Robotics is a rapidly growing startup transforming how we understand our oceans through better data. We are leaders in solar-powered uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs) that voyage inhospitable ocean environments.

Are you eager and comfortable working in a fast-paced team environment with multiple work streams? Are you proactive, self-motivated, and able to work independently to help achieve our goals? Are you motivated by a passion for learning and caring for the ocean, climate, and the planet’s well-being? If so, we would love to hear from you.

We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. We encourage applicants that reflect diversity in thinking and background as we continue to develop our culture of inclusiveness for all.

We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Finance and Payroll Accountant to manage bookkeeping, accounts receivable/payable, payroll, benefits administration, and some office operations. You will play a key role in ensuring smooth financial operations and providing office operations support to our team.

Core Responsibilities

Finance & Accounting:

• Manage full-cycle bookkeeping, including accounts receivable/payable and project tracking.
• Verify and record all income and expense transactions with supporting documentation.
• Prepare and send invoices to customers to ensure timely payments.
• Generate financial reports and assist with budgeting across all departments.
• Maintain accurate records and support financial statement preparation and tax reporting.
• Prepare, submit, and track claims for grants and loans.
• Monitor and report on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) metrics, contributing to sustainability practices within the organization.

Payroll & Benefits:

• Process payroll and administer employee benefits.
• Monitor and ensure compliance with timecard submission policies.
• Address employee inquiries related to payroll, benefits, and deductions.

Office Operations:

• Track and report on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) metrics, ensuring alignment with company goals.
• Oversee onboarding for new hires, including paperwork, orientation, and HR system setup.
• Manage offboarding procedures for departing employees.
• Coordinate office activities, including visitor greetings and parking.

Requirements

• Proven experience in bookkeeping, payroll processing, and general accounting practices.
• Strong accounting knowledge, including accounts payable/receivable principles.
• Proficiency in cloud-based accounting and payroll software (QuickBooks, Plooto, Payworks, or similar) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to multitask.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to convey information clearly.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and work independently.

Preferred skills & qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business Administration, or related field
• Working towards a CPA designation or other relevant certification
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills
• Passion for ocean activities or experience in the marine or ocean technology industry

(No agencies please)

Location: Victoria, BC (hybrid)

Employment Type: Full time (40 hours per week)

Compensation: $52k - $68k / year plus 4 weeks vacation, extended health benefits, and stock options.

Benefits

Open Ocean Robotics provides competitive compensation, group benefits, vacation, and a stock option plan which makes you an owner in Open Ocean Robotics, benefiting from the growth that you will help drive.