Director of Accounting and Finance

Director of Accounting and Finance Kern Energy - 1.0 Bakersfield, CA Job Details Full-time $184,000 - $220,000 a year 1 day ago Qualifications Regulatory compliance Regulatory reporting Bachelor's degree Accounting and finance experience Financial regulatory compliance Internal financial audits Full Job Description Kern Energy is hiring a Director of Accounting & Finance who will serve as a senior leader within the Accounting & Finance organization, responsible for supporting all accounting operations while driving a successful end‑to‑end ERP system conversion. This role blends strategic leadership, operational excellence, and hands‑on project management. The ideal candidate is a seasoned accounting professional with deep technical expertise, strong process‑improvement instincts, and a track record of leading complex system implementations. This role ensures the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of financial information that supports refinery operations and informed decision-making. The Director is accountable for fostering a high-performing, collaborative culture, building leadership capabilities, and partnering with executive leadership and operational teams to support Kern's long-term business strategy. The successful candidate will exhibit Kern's core values of Teamwork, Safety, Excellence, Integrity, and Connection. Job Function Partner with IT, Accounting & Finance, Operations, and external consultants to lead an ERP conversion Identify opportunities for process improvements, automation, and system enhancements Support the monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes, ensuring accurate and timely reporting. Support general ledger activities including journal entries, reconciliations, accruals, and account analysis. Monitor and analyze production variances, cost allocations, and operational performance metrics. Develop and maintain standard costing methodologies and variance reporting. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulatory requirements. Ensure internal controls and ensure proper documentation and testing procedures are maintained. Support internal and external audit processes. Support budgeting, forecasting, and long-term financial planning initiatives. Provide financial modeling and analysis to support capital projects and operational improvements. Develop, document, and update accounting policies and procedures. Supervisory Responsibilities Support the accounting team members including senior accountants, staff accountants, and support personnel. Ensure cross-functional collaboration between accounting, operations, supply chain, and leadership teams. Promote a culture of accountability, safety awareness, and continuous improvement. Knowledge Skills Advanced knowledge of U.S. GAAP and cost accounting principles. Understanding of manufacturing, refinery, or heavy industrial accounting practices preferred. Comprehensive knowledge of inventory valuation and production accounting. Experience implementing ERP systems and advanced Microsoft Excel skills. Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities. Ability to interpret complex financial data and communicate insights clearly. Excellent organizational and time management skills. High level of integrity and commitment to ethical financial practices. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced refinery environment. Strong leadership and team-building skills. Education/ Experience Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required. CPA designation strongly preferred. Minimum of 10 years of progressive accounting experience. Minimum of 5 years in a leadership or supervisory role. Experience in refinery, oil and gas, manufacturing, energy, or heavy industrial environment strongly preferred. Experience managing audits, regulatory reporting, and complex inventory environments required.