Application Guide

How to Apply for Controller

at SunPower

🏢 About SunPower

SunPower is a leader in the renewable energy space, revolutionizing home energy with innovative solar and battery storage solutions. Working here means contributing to a mission-driven company that's at the forefront of the clean energy transition, with a strong commitment to sustainability and technological advancement.

About This Role

As Controller, you'll lead the accounting function across business units, driving a 5-day close and ensuring GAAP compliance. Your work directly supports SunPower's growth by providing accurate financial reporting and scalable controls, making you a key strategic partner in a rapidly evolving industry.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with a quick stand-up with your team to review close progress, followed by deep dives into flux analysis and reviewing consolidated statements. You'll spend time collaborating with business unit controllers to standardize processes, and later meet with the CFO to discuss strategic initiatives and reporting deadlines.

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🎯 Who SunPower Is Looking For

  • A seasoned accounting leader with 12+ years of experience, including 5+ years in a controller or similar leadership role, preferably in a multi-entity, fast-paced environment.
  • Deep expertise in U.S. GAAP, specifically ASC 205, 606, 718, and 842, with a track record of implementing revenue recognition and lease accounting standards.
  • Hands-on experience with NetSuite and financial close tools, able to optimize processes for efficiency and accuracy.
  • A builder mindset, experienced in developing internal controls and preparing for SOX compliance, with strong team leadership and coaching skills.

📝 Tips for Applying to SunPower

1

Highlight specific examples of leading a 5-day close or faster, including tools and process improvements.

2

Quantify your experience with SOX readiness or implementing internal controls, especially in a growth-stage company.

3

Mention your familiarity with SunPower's specific GAAP areas (ASC 205, 606, 718, 842) and provide examples of applying them.

4

Tailor your resume to emphasize leadership of remote or distributed teams, as this role is remote.

5

Include a brief note on your experience with NetSuite and any other tools listed (billing, corporate card, procurement).

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for renewable energy and alignment with SunPower's mission to revolutionize home energy.", 'Specific achievements in streamlining close processes and reducing close time.', 'Experience building scalable controls and leading teams through change or growth.', 'Your technical expertise in the specific GAAP areas mentioned, with concrete examples.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read SunPower's latest annual report (10-K) and quarterly earnings releases to understand their financial structure and recent performance.
  • → Familiarize yourself with their product lines (solar panels, battery storage) and how revenue is recognized (e.g., leases vs. sales).
  • → Check news about SunPower's growth initiatives, acquisitions, or any recent changes in leadership or strategy.
  • → Review their website's investor relations section for information on their business model and market position.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk me through how you would standardize the close process across multiple business units to achieve a 5-day close.
2 Describe a time you implemented internal controls in preparation for SOX compliance. What challenges did you face?
3 How have you applied ASC 606 or ASC 842 in a previous role? Provide a specific example.
4 Tell me about a time you built and developed a high-performing accounting team. What was your approach to coaching?
5 How do you stay current with changes in GAAP and ensure your team is compliant?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Focusing only on technical accounting without demonstrating leadership and process improvement skills.
  • Not tailoring your application to the renewable energy industry or SunPower's specific mission.
  • Overlooking the remote aspect—ensure you address how you manage and communicate with remote teams effectively.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to SunPower!

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