Plant Controller

Randstad; Portage (WI); On-site; USD 68,880 - 75,768; Full time

Job summary

A leading manufacturer is seeking a Plant Controller in Portage, Wisconsin to lead financial operations across key production sites. This role involves overseeing financial integrity, operational analysis, and ensuring compliance with internal controls. The ideal candidate will have 3+ years in a manufacturing environment, solid leadership skills, and proficiency with ERP systems like SAP or Oracle. Offers competitive pay and a contract employment type.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of plant-level experience as a Cost Accountant or Plant Controller.
• Demonstrated experience with manufacturing forecasting, S&OP, FP&A, and cost accounting.
• Deep understanding of internal controls and general accounting principles.

Responsibilities

• Act as a core member of the site leadership team, providing financial insights.
• Oversee monthly close, variance analysis, reconciliations, and forecasting.
• Manage cost accounting functions and ensure compliance with internal controls.

Skills

Financial integrity

Operational analysis

Cost accounting

Financial planning

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

Tools

SAP

Oracle

QAD

Excel

Job description

Base pay range

$50.00/hr - $55.00/hr

Overview

An established, innovation-driven manufacturer is seeking a Plant Controller to lead financial operations across two key production sites. This highly visible role will serve as a strategic business partner to the Plant Manager and site leadership teams—helping shape financial direction, enforce accountability, and drive profitability through proactive financial planning and cost control.

The Plant Controller will be responsible for financial integrity, operational analysis, internal control alignment, and forecasting, with a focus on enabling long-term growth within a complex manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as a core member of the site leadership team, providing financial insights and strategic recommendations.
• Oversee monthly close, variance analysis, reconciliations, and forecasting processes.
• Lead the RF1/3 forecast and budgeting cycles for both sites, including analysis of variances against budget or forecast.
• Manage cost accounting functions, including standard cost development, margin transparency, and manufacturing performance tracking.
• Ensure compliance with internal controls, corporate policies, and sound financial practices.
• Evaluate and improve internal business processes, working cross-functionally to optimize operational and financial outcomes.
• Support manufacturing S&OP planning with actionable financial data and commentary.
• Champion ERP utilization (SAP, Oracle, QAD) for financial data integrity and efficiency.
• Monitor and ensure the accuracy of site balance sheets, including working capital and fixed asset activity.
• Lead or contribute to financial reporting and operational analysis to support executive decision-making.
• Ensure all financial activities align with plant safety and environmental standards.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (required)
• 3+ years of plant-level experience in a manufacturing environment as a Cost Accountant or Plant Controller (required)
• Demonstrated experience with manufacturing forecasting, S&OP, FP&A, and cost accounting
• Deep understanding of internal controls, balance sheet integrity, and general accounting principles
• Ability to communicate financial impact of operational or strategic changes clearly and confidently
• Proven leadership skills with a proactive, hands-on approach to financial and operational problem-solving
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Proficiency in ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or QAD (at least one required)

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Finance, Accounting, or Business
• CPA certification (preferred but not required)
• 3+ years’ experience in a corporate financial analysis role in addition to plant-level exposure
• Experience developing or delivering training related to finance, compliance, or operational efficiency
• Background in project management or process improvement initiatives

Technical Skills

• ERP systems: SAP, Oracle, QAD
• Advanced Excel and financial modeling
• Strong data analysis and reporting skills
• Familiarity with manufacturing KPIs and performance metrics

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Contract

Job function

• Accounting/Auditing

Industries

• Manufacturing