Plant Controller

Plant Controller – Manufacturing Facility

A growing manufacturing organization is seeking a driven and detail‑oriented Plant Controller to support one of its U.S. production sites. This role is ideal for someone currently operating as an Accountant, Cost Accountant, Budget Supervisor, or Assistant Controller who is ready to step into a broader plant‑level finance leadership position. The successful candidate will help the facility understand its budget, cost structure, and financial performance so leadership can make informed decisions that support stable and efficient operations.

Role Overview

The Plant Controller oversees the financial health of the facility, manages cost structures, ensures accurate reporting, and provides actionable insights to operational leadership. This position partners closely with the site’s General Manager and reports into the corporate finance organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements to reflect plant performance and financial position.

• Lead the development of annual budgets and financial forecasts, including monitoring manufacturing costs and capital spending.

• Track, control, and reduce production costs; allocate labor, overhead, and material costs to product lines.

• Maintain compliance with financial policies, internal controls, and standard accounting procedures.

• Oversee valuation and reporting of raw materials, WIP, and finished goods; manage cycle counts and physical inventory.

• Analyze variances related to costs, margins, and operational efficiency; provide clear explanations and recommendations.

• Support pricing decisions by evaluating production costs and advising on appropriate pricing strategies.

• Assist with internal and external audits to ensure accurate reporting and regulatory compliance.

• Identify opportunities to improve profitability through cost control and process efficiency.

• Partner with operations, engineering, and supply chain to align financial goals with plant initiatives.

• Maintain and enhance accounting systems to improve accuracy, timeliness, and workflow efficiency.

• Support ERP enhancements and system improvements as needed.

Education & Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance.

• CPA or CMA preferred but not required.

• 3–5 years of accounting or finance experience within a manufacturing or industrial environment.

• Strong background in cost accounting, inventory management, and financial reporting.

• Experience with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, or similar platforms.

• Prior experience in a plant‑level finance role (e.g., Cost Accountant, Finance Manager, Assistant Controller) is beneficial.

• Working knowledge of GAAP and financial compliance standards.

• Proficiency with financial analysis tools and reporting software.

Skills & Competencies

• Ability to interpret large volumes of financial and operational data and translate findings into actionable insights.

• Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to proactively address cost discrepancies and variances.

• Advanced Excel skills and familiarity with financial modeling.

• Solid understanding of manufacturing workflows, cost structures, and operational drivers.

• Strong communication skills with the ability to present financial information to non‑financial stakeholders.

• Ability to manage multiple deadlines, especially during month‑end close and budget cycles.

• High attention to accuracy, cost monitoring, and internal control discipline.

• Demonstrated initiative in identifying issues and implementing solutions.

• Effective collaborator across cross‑functional teams.

• Commitment to integrity and adherence to accounting standards.