Controller Associate

International Paper; Salem (OR); Hybrid; USD 65,000 - 87,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading paper manufacturing company seeks a Controller Associate to join their finance development program. This role requires geographical flexibility and includes mentorship, financial analysis, and leadership opportunities. Candidates should have a degree in Accounting or Finance, 2 years’ relevant experience, and strong analytical skills. This full-time position offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package.

Benefits

Medical, Dental, and Life insurance

401(k) and company-funded retirement contributions

Paid Time Off and Education & Development benefits

Qualifications

• At least 12 credit hours in Accounting.
• Experience in a converting facility is a plus.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively.

Responsibilities

• Ensure strong internal controls to protect company assets.
• Prepare financial statements in accordance with standards.
• Deliver timely and actionable financial analysis.

Skills

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration

Minimum of 2 years’ experience in an Accounting or Finance role

Strong initiative and self-motivation

Excellent written, verbal, and listening skills

Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration

Tools

SAP

Job description

Controller Associate

Controller Associate

Physical Location: This role requires flexibility to relocate in the near future and the ability to travel up to 50% as needed.

Location Details: Candidates must be open to placement in various locations. Potential immediate opportunities include:

• Oregon
• Florida

Pay Rate: $65,100 - $86,800

Multiple factors, including individual experience, skills, and abilities will determine where an employee is ultimately placed in the pay range. Variable pay may provide additional opportunities for financial awards. This job is eligible to participate in IP’s annual incentive plan.

Category/Shift: Salaried Full-Time

The Job You Will Perform

Work under the daily guidance of the site controller as part of a division-wide finance development program, gaining exposure to all aspects of the Container business through formal training, cross-site job rotations, special projects, and mentorship from NAC Finance leadership.

Generally, serve as one of two exempt financial professionals at the manufacturing site, typically working alongside a team that includes non-exempt staff—offering valuable leadership and managerial development opportunities as you progress.

While building the skills necessary for future leadership roles within the Finance organization, provide support to the plant controller, plant general manager, region controller, and NAC division staff.

Key responsibilities include ensuring strong internal controls to protect company assets, preparing financial statements in accordance with professional and corporate standards, delivering timely and actionable financial analysis, identifying and proposing solutions to business challenges, and mentoring and developing accounting staff.

The Skills You Will Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration, with at least 12 credit hours in Accounting
• Minimum of 2 years’ experience in an Accounting or Finance role; experience in a converting facility is a plus
• Geographic flexibility and willingness to travel up to 50% during the training period
• Strong initiative and self-motivation, with excellent written, verbal, and active listening skills
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively and contribute to team success
• Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment
• Strong knowledge of general and cost accounting, including month-end close processes and financial statement preparation
• Experience with developing, maintaining, and assessing internal controls
• Strong analytical and financial skills, including budgeting, forecasting, KPI tracking, working capital management, and supporting special projects
• Familiarity with financial and operational information systems, preferably SAP, including system oversight and management
• Understanding of sales, marketing, and distribution processes
• Knowledge of quality improvement and manufacturing processes, including root cause analysis and implementation of corrective actions

The Benefits You Will Enjoy

International Paper offers a benefits package that includes health, welfare, and retirement plans, including Medical, Dental, Life insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Short-term and Long-term Disability, 401(k), Company-funded retirement contributions, Paid Time Off, Education & Development (including Tuition Reimbursement), Student Loan Repayment Assistance, and Voluntary Benefits including insurance for home, auto, vision, and pets.

The Impact You Will Make

We continue to build a better future for people, the planet, and our company! IP has been a good steward of sustainable practices across communities around the world for more than 120 years. Join our team and you’ll see why our team members say they’re Proud to be IP.

The Culture You Will Experience

International Paper promotes employee well-being by providing safe, caring, and inclusive workplaces. We have team members all around the world with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. These are our strengths. We are committed to creating a culture where all individuals are respected, valued, engaged, and have an opportunity to do their best work every day.

Equal Employment Opportunity: International Paper is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.