Strategic Plant Controller — Profitability & Ops Leader

CareerNerds, LLC; Lake Forest (IL); On-site; USD 130,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

CareerNerds, LLC is seeking a Plant Controller to join its manufacturing leadership team. This role partners with operations to drive profitability, lead financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and capital planning for a complex facility.

You will manage the Accounting team, oversee cost accounting, inventory controls, month-end close, and ensure GAAP compliance while enabling strategic decisions. Strong communication with senior leadership is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required.
• 7-10 years of Controller or Plant Controller experience within a manufacturing environment is required.
• Financial leadership experience in a complex manufacturing operation is required.
• Experience partnering with manufacturing operations to improve financial and operational performance.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with ERP/accounting systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead all financial operations for the manufacturing facility, ensuring accurate, timely, and reliable financial reporting.
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements, performance reports, and management analysis.
• Develop the annual operating budget, business plan, and financial forecasts while monitoring performance against established goals.
• Partner with Plant Leadership to provide financial guidance that supports strategic and operational decision-making.
• Analyze plant performance, manufacturing costs, and operating results to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
• Oversee physical inventory processes and maintain accurate inventory accounting and controls.
• Lead month-end and year-end close activities while ensuring accounting accuracy and compliance with corporate policies.

Skills

Analytical skills

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance

Tools

Excel

ERP systems

Job description

CareerNerds, LLC is seeking a Plant Controller to join its manufacturing leadership team. This role partners with operations to drive profitability, lead financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and capital planning for a complex facility.

You will manage the Accounting team, oversee cost accounting, inventory controls, month-end close, and ensure GAAP compliance while enabling strategic decisions. Strong communication with senior leadership is essential.