Financial Analyst - R&D Operations

Job description

Location: Ottawa, ON (on-site; hybrid arrangements possible) Employment type: Full-time permanent Hours: 40 hours per week Salary range: $70,000 – $95,000 CAD per year, commensurate with experience About Q-Block Computing: Q-Block Computing builds quantum systems that operate in the real world. The company develops quantum timing, quantum-secure communications, and quantum computing platforms engineered for the performance, reliability, and environmental resilience that mission-critical applications demand — systems designed to be deployed, maintained, and trusted by operators who cannot afford ambiguity about whether the technology works. The long-term vision is deeper than any single platform. Q-Block is pursuing a mission to decode Nature's foundational model — to build instruments of sufficient precision and coherence that they become tools for understanding the physical universe at its most fundamental level. Commercialization and science reinforce each other by design. About this role: The Financial Analyst — R&D Operations will support the financial backbone of a rapidly scaling quantum technology company, where government contracts, research grants, and commercial revenue streams coexist and each carries its own accounting discipline. The role combines cost tracking across complex R&D programs, compliance-grade reporting for federal funding, and the operational finance work that keeps a fast-moving hardware company running cleanly day to day. The successful candidate is a finance professional who is equally comfortable with a reconciliation, a contract cost structure, and a forecast that will be revisited next month. This is a role for someone who reads the details, asks the right questions early, and finds satisfaction in bringing financial clarity to an environment where technical ambition moves faster than a standard accounting calendar. Responsibilities Manage cost tracking and allocation across multiple R&D projects funded through government contracts, grants, and internal investment. Prepare financial reports and reconciliations for government contracts, ensuring compliance with federal accounting requirements and contract terms. Monitor grant budgets and prepare quarterly and annual reporting for research funding agencies. Track and forecast project costs across photonics R&D, manufacturing development, and system integration activities. Support bid and proposal development by preparing accurate cost estimates, rate structures, and financial projections for new contracts. Manage accounts payable, accounts receivable, and expense reimbursement with appropriate controls and documentation. Support financial analysis for capital equipment purchases and infrastructure investments. Prepare cash flow forecasts, budget variance analyses, and scenario views to support business planning. Liaise with external auditors on financial compliance matters and support contract and grant audits. Document financial processes and maintain organized records for multi-source funding accountability. Support the senior finance team with month-end and year-end closing procedures. Contribute to financial planning for facility expansion and scaling operations. Required qualifications 3+ years of accounting or financial analysis experience in R&D-intensive organizations — technology, research-intensive university, or advanced manufacturing environments preferred. Demonstrated experience managing government contracts, grants, or defense sector accounting. Solid understanding of R&D accounting principles, cost allocation methodologies, and project-based accounting. Working knowledge of Canadian government contracting requirements, compliance standards, and grant reporting expectations. Advanced Excel skills including financial modeling, data analysis, and pivot tables. Strong proficiency with accounting software and financial management systems (QuickBooks, NetSuite, or comparable ERP platforms). Working knowledge of Canadian tax and payroll requirements. Preferred qualifications Professional accounting designation (CPA, CGA, or equivalent). Experience with government defense or aerospace contracts. Familiarity with federal research programs and grant management frameworks. Experience with startup or high-growth company financial operations. Exposure to manufacturing or hardware-intensive R&D environments. Understanding of government contract cost structures, including labor allocation, overhead rates, and capital equipment depreciation. Comfort working with multiple funding sources and cost centers in parallel. Security and compliance requirements Must be eligible to obtain and maintain Government of Canada security clearance, if required for assigned projects. Must be eligible to comply with requirements of the Controlled Goods Program, if required for assigned projects. Must be willing to participate in background screening, documentation, and compliance processes associated with security-sensitive work. Due to the sensitive nature of the company's research and government contracting work, preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Professional attributes Strong analytical and problem-solving ability, with attention to detail and accuracy. Ability to manage multiple complex projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Clear communication, including the ability to explain financial information to non-financial stakeholders. Proactive approach to identifying financial risks and opportunities before they surface. Comfort learning new systems quickly and adapting to evolving business needs. Self-motivated, able to work independently while collaborating effectively with the team. Commitment to confidentiality and professional handling of sensitive financial information. Genuine curiosity about emerging technologies and the business models that surround them. Benefits Competitive salary commensurate with experience. Extended health care (including dental and vision). Life insurance. Flexible work arrangements. Professional development and continuing education support. Exposure to cutting-edge quantum technology development and the defense-sector innovation ecosystem. Opportunity to grow with a rapidly scaling technology company, with room for career advancement as the company expands. Application requirements Resume or CV highlighting relevant experience in accounting, government contracts, and grant management. Cover letter addressing interest in financial operations in a startup and emerging technology environment. References from previous employers or professional contacts. Any relevant certifications or professional designations. Equal Opportunity Q-Block Computing is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive environment where innovation thrives. All employees and applicants are treated with respect and dignity. Applicants requiring accessibility accommodations during the application or interview process are encouraged to notify us, and we will work with you to provide appropriate support. All interested candidates meeting the minimum qualifications are encouraged to apply.