Controller (Project Controller/Plant Controller)

Controller (Project Controller/Plant Controller) Prairieville, LA Job Details $150,000 - $180,000 a year 1 day ago Benefits Health insurance 401(k) 6% Match 401(k) matching Qualifications Business financial process improvement Finance advising Financial forecasting Contract documentation review Financial close processing Contract review Internal controls Management CPA Financial reporting General ledger maintenance SOX Budget forecasting Decision making Financial control management Managing accounting teams Mentoring Accounting and finance experience SAP ERP Senior level Cross-functional collaboration Project leadership Working on construction projects Accrual accounting Communication skills Internal financial audits Cross-functional communication Fixed asset management Financial compliance Full Job Description Korn Ferry is partnering with our client on their search for a Controller (Project Controller/Plant Controller).

Company Overview:

Our client is a leading global manufacturing and energy-focused organization operating large-scale production facilities and infrastructure across North America and internationally The company plays a critical role in supporting agriculture, energy, and industrial markets, with a strong emphasis on operational excellence, safety, and sustainability The organization is known for its disciplined capital investment strategy and ability to execute complex, multi-billion-dollar projects in a stable, recession-resistant industry Leadership fosters a collaborative, high-performance culture where employees are encouraged to contribute to impactful, large-scale initiatives and grow within the organization

Role Summary:

Title:

Controller -

Blue Point Project Department:

Finance & Accounting Location:

Prairieville, Louisiana (on-site)

Primary Focus:

Serve as the lead financial partner on a $4B greenfield capital project, ensuring financial accuracy, governance, and control throughout the project lifecycle while preparing the site for long-term operational success

Key Responsibilities:

Own financial controls, compliance, and governance for a multi-billion-dollar capital project, ensuring alignment with corporate policies and SOX requirements Lead project accounting activities including construction-in-progress (CIP), fixed assets, accruals, capital calls, and cash flows Oversee monthly close processes, general ledger activity, and financial reporting tied to project accounting Partner closely with Project Controls, Procurement, and leadership teams to track costs, forecast spend, and ensure financial transparency across contracts Review and analyze major project contracts to ensure financial accuracy and proper accounting treatment Support internal and external audit processes and maintain audit readiness throughout the project lifecycle Identify financial risks and provide recommendations to protect the project and support informed decision-making Build and scale accounting processes as the project transitions from construction phase into operational mode Act as a key financial advisor to project leadership and cross-functional stakeholders

Ideal Candidate Profile:

Strong Controller or Plant Controller background with experience supporting large capital or construction projects Experience with fixed assets, CIP accounting, and contract review required Strong understanding of financial controls, compliance, and governance in complex environments Ability to operate both in a project-based environment and transition into operational finance leadership Hands-on leader who can work in the details while also supporting strategic decision-making Experience with SAP or similar ERP systems strongly preferred CPA preferred but not required Proven experience managing or mentoring accounting staff (team of ~5 with 2 direct reports) Strong communication skills with the ability to partner across engineering, construction, procurement, and finance teams

Compensation & Benefits:

Target base compensation range: $150K-$180K Annual bonus target: ~12.5% plus potential project-based bonus Comprehensive benefits package including Blue Cross Blue Shield medical coverage 401(k) with 6% match plus additional 3% contribution Additional benefits and incentives aligned with large-scale project environments Relocation support available for qualified candidates

Work Environment & Schedule:

On-site role in Prairieville, Louisiana (in office five days per week) Fast-paced, project-driven environment with strong team collaboration Project entering active build phase with major contracts already in place

Selling Points:

Opportunity to lead finance for one of the largest capital investments in company history (~$4B project) High-impact role with direct visibility to senior leadership and project decision-making Blend of project accounting and future operational leadership, offering long-term career growth Work within a stable, recession-resistant industry with strong financial backing Collaborative and team-oriented environment with strong cross-functional partnership Ideal for a hands-on accounting leader who enjoys complex projects, building processes, and driving financial integrity in large-scale initiatives •Korn Ferry shall provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified candidates, and will refer candidates without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected basis. Artificial Intelligence tools may be used in connection with the recruitment process for this position.