Lead Program Finance Analyst

Shield AI

Lead program finance for Shield AI, a defense-tech company developing autonomous aircraft and software. Driving forecasting, EAC, financial modeling, reporting tools, and cross-functional decision-making for strategic programs.

Posted 8/12/2026full-timeWashington, DC • District of Columbia, Washington • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $110,000 - $160,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in financial planning, forecasting, and variance analysis while effectively communicating financial performance and risks to stakeholders. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and implement best practices in program financial management within government contracting environments.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Financial PlanningForecastingEstimate At Completion (EAC)Financial ModelingAdvanced Microsoft Excel

ATS Keywords

Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

Financial AnalysisVariance AnalysisProcess AutomationDashboard DevelopmentRisk IdentificationContract StructuresOperational ExcellenceData-Driven Decision MakingProgram FinanceFP&A

Soft Skills

Influencing Cross-Functional TeamsEffective CommunicationMentoringCoachingProblem-Solving

Tools & Technologies

Financial Reporting SolutionsDashboardsReporting ToolsScalable Financial Tools

Certifications & Qualifications

Active U.S. Security Clearance

Industry Keywords

Government ContractsFARCASRevenue RecognitionAerospaceDefenseAutonomous SystemsComplex Technology Development

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Serve as the lead finance partner supporting a strategic program throughout its lifecycle
Partner cross-functionally with Program Management, Engineering, Contracts, and other stakeholders to support financial execution and business decision-making
Lead program forecasting, Estimate at Completion (EAC), financial planning, and variance analysis while identifying risks and opportunities
Develop financial models, dashboards, and reporting tools that improve visibility into program performance and support data-driven decisions
Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the Hivemind Program Finance organization by standardizing processes, improving reporting, and implementing scalable financial tools
Introduce and implement industry best practices to improve program financial management and organizational effectiveness
Mentor junior Program Finance team members by providing technical guidance, coaching, and support for their professional development
Partner with finance leadership on strategic initiatives, process transformations, and special projects that strengthen the Program Finance function
Prepare executive-level reporting and communicate financial performance, risks, and recommendations to program and business leadership
Support program startup activities, contract execution, and financial planning for new program efforts as needed

Requirements

What you’ll need

Active U.S. security clearance
Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, Economics, or a related field
7+ years of progressive finance experience at a U.S. government contractor in Program Finance, Project Finance, FP&A, or a related financial role
Experience supporting complex government contracts and understanding contract structures such as FFP, CPFF, T&M, and Cost Reimbursable
Demonstrated experience leading Estimate at Completion (EAC) processes, forecasting, and financial planning
Strong financial modeling, analytical, and problem-solving skills
Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and experience developing financial reporting solutions
Ability to influence cross-functional teams and communicate effectively with both technical and business stakeholders
Proven ability to improve financial processes and drive operational excellence in a dynamic environment
Experience supporting aerospace, defense, autonomous systems, or other complex technology development programs
Experience designing financial reporting solutions, dashboards, or process automation
Knowledge of FAR, CAS, and revenue recognition principles
All offers contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check

Benefits

Comp & perks

Bonus
Benefits
Equity
Temporary benefits package applicable after 60 days of employment for temporary employees
Accommodation for disabilities or special needs
Equal employment opportunity and affirmative action workplace