Controller

Description Our client is looking for a hands-on Controller to support a manufacturing operation in Columbia, Tennessee. This is an onsite, contract/temporary position requiring someone comfortable operating in a plant-based environment and overseeing core accounting and financial operations. The ideal candidate brings strong manufacturing accounting experience, particularly around job costing, inventory, and month-end close, and can step in quickly to stabilize and support the business.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee day-to-day accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll coordination, and cash management.
• Manage month-end and period-end close processes, ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting.
• Maintain and monitor inventory accounting, including raw materials, work-in-process (WIP), and finished goods.
• Oversee job costing and cost accounting processes, including labor, overhead, and material tracking.
• Analyze manufacturing variances and production costs, identifying trends and potential issues impacting margins.
• Ensure accurate application of standard and actual costs and support cost updates as needed.
• Prepare financial statements, internal reports, and ad hoc analyses for plant leadership and ownership.
• Support budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow monitoring in coordination with operations.
• Ensure adherence to internal controls, accounting policies, and applicable compliance requirements.
• Partner closely with plant management to provide financial insight and operational support.
• Assist with audit preparation, external accountant coordination, and documentation as needed.
• Identify process improvement opportunities within accounting and plant financial workflows.
• Provide hands-on support as needed to ensure continuity of accounting operations during the contract period. Requirements
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance required.
• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, with significant exposure to manufacturing environments.
• Prior experience in metal manufacturing, fabrication, or related industrial settings strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of cost accounting, job costing, inventory, and WIP accounting.
• Solid knowledge of general ledger accounting, account reconciliations, and financial statement preparation.
• Experience working in a plant or shop-floor environment with close operational interaction.
• Ability to operate independently and adapt quickly in a temporary or transitional role.
• ERP system experience within a manufacturing setting preferred (system-agnostic).
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to balance accuracy and deadlines.

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