Accounting & Financial Analyst (Contract)

In this critical role, you will be a key business partner to R&D leadership, combining financial acumen, project management rigor, and data-driven insights to optimize resource allocation and accelerate the development of next-generation products. You will play a central role in managing R&D budgets, tracking project performance, and supporting the transition toward a more structured, outcome-based investment framework.
This position is based in San Diego, CA, with the expectation of in-office collaboration. Given the strong partnership with the Japan R&D and finance teams, the role requires flexibility to work evening hours to align with Japan time zones when and as needed.

What You'll Do:

Optimize R&D Investments

• Develop robust business and financial models to evaluate the viability and ROI of R&D projects.
• Support prioritization of initiatives based on strategic and financial impact.

Drive Operational Efficiency

• Analyze R&D spending, headcount utilization, and CapEx/Opex mix to identify optimization opportunities.
• Build scalable, repeatable processes to improve visibility and governance across project portfolios.

Lead Budget Planning & Forecasting

• Partner with engineering, product, and finance teams to manage annual and quarterly planning cycles.
• Own consolidation, variance tracking, and reporting through Oracle EPM and related systems.
• Support alignment between global and Japan R&D organizations on resource allocation and spend control.

Deliver Actionable Insights

• Build executive-ready presentations in PowerPoint, highlighting key metrics, trends, and recommendations.
• Develop and maintain Excel-based dashboards, templates, and cost models for ongoing financial performance tracking.

Strengthen Cross-Functional Alignment

• Serve as a liaison between Japan-based leadership and global R&D finance teams.
• Communicate clearly and proactively to ensure decisions are backed by data and aligned with global objectives.

What You'll Bring:

• 3+ years of experience in FP&A, business operations, or project management, ideally supporting R&D or technology organizations.
• Advanced Excel and PowerPoint skills, with the ability to design and deliver clear, executive-level presentations.
• Strong system orientation, including hands-on experience with Oracle EPM, ERP, or related financial planning systems.
• Analytical mindset with strong attention to detail and the ability to translate data into clear business narratives.
• Process-oriented and highly organized, with demonstrated ability to manage multiple stakeholders and deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal; able to synthesize complexity into clarity.
• Native or fluent Japanese language skills highly preferred, given regular engagement with Japan executives.
• Willingness to work occasional evening hours to collaborate effectively with Japan counterparts.
• San Diego-based — in-office presence required for collaboration and alignment with local leadership.

Bonus Points:

• Experience in the semiconductor or embedded software industry.
• Exposure to software project planning, capitalization, or R&D portfolio management.
• Familiarity with tools like Power BI, SmartView, or other data visualization platforms.

The hourly range for this role is $80.00– $100.00/hr. Actual compensation packages within this range are based on a wide array of factors unique to each candidate and role requirements, including but not limited to skill set, years and depth of experience, certifications, and specific location.