Research & Development Accounting Manager

Perplexity is looking for an experienced R&D Accounting Manager to join our team revolutionizing the way people search and interact with the internet. The Finance and Accounting team at Perplexity is playing a critical role in defining and driving strategic and financial processes across the company and is looking for a technically skilled and detail-oriented individual who can prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment.

You will work closely with the Controller & Strategic Finance Team to build out our R&D and infrastructure accounting processes, empower informed decision‑making and to ensure accurate financial reporting. This role will partner with both internal and external business stakeholders to manage data acquisition and to ensure a clear understanding of infrastructure costs. It will also be responsible for the end‑to‑end process of the capitalization of our internally developed software.

This is a critical position supporting both the scale and accuracy of our infra‑related and R&D financial processes, ensuring accounting processes are efficient, well‑documented, and in compliance with US GAAP.

• Own the detailed review of, and financial reporting for, infrastructure (incl. AI models) costs to support a timely and accurate month‑end close.
• Drive improvements in the quality and accuracy of infrastructure‑related reporting by working cross‑functionally with internal stakeholders and infrastructure partners to improve the reliability of data and ensure the accuracy of vendor billing.
• Develop, document and maintain the process for capitalizing internally developed software in accordance with ASC 350.
• Build scalable processes and drive automation for infrastructure accounting and the capitalization of internally developed software to support the rapid growth of the business.
• Engage in technical accounting research to ensure the correct treatment of complex arrangements.
• Own the credit and refund processes with infrastructure partners to ensure contractual SLA performance and pricing terms are met.
• Work closely with cross‑functional partners in Strategic Finance, Product, Data and Engineering to remain informed on infra‑related initiatives and to accurately determine capitalizable projects, features, etc.
• Support the audit preparation process including policy/memo writing, compiling supporting documentation, reconciliations and schedules, and delivering requests in a timely manner.

• 8+ years of progressive accounting experience, preferably a combination of public accounting and operational experience at a technology company.
• Strong understanding of US GAAP, particularly ASC 350 and ASC 220.
• A builder mindset that enjoys drawing the blueprint for automated, reliable and scalable processes.
• Best‑in‑class attention to detail and unwavering commitment to accuracy in an ever‑changing business environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills as demonstrated by the ability to partner with internal and external stakeholders across various parts of the business on complex topics.
• Strong understanding of AI development and platform infrastructure landscape.
• CPA or CA required.
• Experience with Net Suite preferred.

The cash compensation range for this role is $170,000 - $220,000.

Final offer amounts are determined by multiple factors, including, experience and expertise, and may vary from the amounts listed above.

Equity:
In addition to the base salary, equity may be part of the total compensation package.

Benefits:
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents. Includes a 401(k) plan.