Plant Controller

We are looking for an accomplished Plant Controller to oversee finance and accounting operations for a manufacturing site in Axis, Alabama. This role acts as a strategic partner to plant leadership by translating financial results into operational insights, strengthening cost visibility, and supporting sound business decisions. The successful candidate will bring deep experience in manufacturing finance, strong command of cost accounting practices, and the ability to operate effectively within a global reporting environment.

Responsibilities:
• Direct the plant’s accounting activities and deliver accurate financial reporting that supports both local leadership and corporate stakeholders.
• Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual close cycles, ensuring records are complete, timely, and aligned with reporting expectations.
• Evaluate plant financial results, including margins, production spending, and key operating indicators, and communicate findings to leadership.
• Manage standard cost processes, inventory valuation, and analysis of labor, overhead, and material usage to explain manufacturing performance.
• Partner with operations leaders to investigate cost variances, identify savings opportunities, and improve overall plant profitability.
• Lead the annual planning process for the facility, including budget development, routine forecasting, and performance-to-plan analysis.
• Maintain strong financial controls over inventory, capital assets, purchasing activity, and manufacturing transactions to support compliance and accuracy.
• Coordinate financial oversight of physical inventory counts, cycle count programs, audits, and related documentation requirements.
• Provide financial guidance for capital projects, equipment investments, and productivity initiatives while supporting broader corporate and international reporting needs.
• Coach and develop plant finance staff while promoting process improvements that enhance reporting quality, efficiency, and internal control effectiveness.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a closely related discipline.

• At least 7 years of accounting or finance experience, including substantial time in a manufacturing environment.

• Previous success in a Plant Controller, Manufacturing Controller, Assistant Controller, Cost Accounting Manager, or comparable position.

• Strong expertise in manufacturing cost accounting, standard costing, inventory accounting, and variance analysis.

• Working knowledge of U.S. GAAP and IFRS within a multinational or international business setting.

• Hands-on experience with enterprise systems in support of general ledger, cost accounting, inventory, and fixed asset management; Eaton system experience is preferred.

• Advanced Excel skills and strong financial reporting capabilities.

• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across plant operations, corporate finance, and global teams.

For confidential consideration, please reach out to Emily Schneller, Robert Half Recruiting Manager, at 504-264-5922. Thank you for your interest in Robert Half.