Assistant Controller

Description:

The Assistant Controller supports the Controller and Finance leadership team in managing the company's accounting operations, financial reporting, internal controls, and compliance activities. This role is critical in ensuring accurate financial records, timely month-end close processes, inventory and cost accounting accuracy, and operational financial support within a fast-paced food manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate combines strong technical accounting expertise with manufacturing finance experience, particularly in inventory, standard costing, production variances, and regulatory compliance. Financial Reporting & Accounting Assist with monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close processes Prepare and review journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules Support preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP Maintain general ledger integrity and ensure timely, accurate reporting Analyze financial performance and provide variance explanations Manufacturing & Cost Accounting Support inventory accounting, cycle counts, and physical inventory processes Monitor standard costing, labor and overhead allocations, and production variances Partner with operations and plant management to improve cost visibility and controls Analyze yield, scrap, waste, and manufacturing efficiencies Ensure accurate valuation of raw materials, work-in-process, and finished goods Internal Controls & Compliance Maintain and strengthen internal accounting controls and procedures Assist with external audits, tax filings, and regulatory reporting requirements Ensure compliance with company policies, GAAP, and food manufacturing standards Support implementation and documentation of accounting procedures Leadership & Collaboration Supervise and mentor accounting staff as assigned Collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, Supply Chain, Purchasing, and HR Assist with ERP system improvements and process automation initiatives Support budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management activities Work Environment In the office, office hours Fast-paced manufacturing environment with regular interaction across departments Occasional plant floor exposure requiring adherence to food safety and PPE standards Ability to work extended hours during month-end and year-end close cycles

Requirements:

Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required CPA or CMA preferred 5+ years of progressive accounting experience Manufacturing industry experience required; food manufacturing strongly preferred Experience with cost accounting and inventory management required Skills & Competencies Strong knowledge of GAAP and internal controls Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle, Sage) Advanced Excel skills and financial analysis capabilities Strong organizational and problem-solving skills Ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment Excellent communication and leadership abilities Preferred Qualifications Experience in multi-site manufacturing operations Familiarity with FDA, USDA, or food industry compliance requirements Experience supporting audits and process improvement initiatives Knowledge of inventory management systems and production reporting