Plant Controller

We are supporting a client in their search for a Plant Controller to a key leadership role within the site operations team. This role is focused on driving operational performance through cost visibility, inventory control, and data-driven decision-making. The ideal candidate will bring a strong understanding of manufacturing and supply chain processes, and use that knowledge to identify cost drivers, support continuous improvement, and enhance operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Partner with plant leadership to monitor and improve operational performance, with a focus on cost control, inventory accuracy, and throughput.
• Lead cost analysis and reporting for materials, labor, and overhead; identify trends and recommend corrective actions.
• Own and maintain standard costing, including BOM accuracy, labor routings, and overhead allocations.
• Collaborate with Supply Chain, Production, and Engineering teams to support initiatives such as cost reduction, scrap reduction, and process optimization.
• Analyze manufacturing variances and provide actionable insights to improve plant efficiency and reduce waste.
• Support inventory management through cycle counts, reconciliations, and root cause analysis of discrepancies.
• Drive improvements in data quality, reporting timeliness, and operational transparency through systems and process enhancements.
• Participate in cross-functional projects including new product introductions, capital investments, and ERP upgrades.
• Ensure compliance with internal controls and support audits related to inventory and cost accounting.
• Support monthly close activities related to plant operations, including journal entries, accruals, and variance explanations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Finance, Accounting or a related field.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment with a strong understanding of plant operations and cost structures.
• Proficiency in standard costing, inventory control, and variance analysis.
• Strong collaboration skills with the ability to influence across operations, supply chain, and engineering teams.
• Experience with ERP systems (Epicor preferred) and manufacturing reporting tools.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive results in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience as a Plant Controller or similar roles in a manufacturing setting.
• Demonstrated success in driving operational improvements through financial insights.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a hands-on approach.