Plant Controller
Location: Ontario, Canada
Industry: Manufacturing / Metals
Position Summary
We are seeking a hands-on Plant Controller to lead all plant-level finance and accounting activities for a growing manufacturing operation in Ontario. This individual will serve as a strategic business partner to plant leadership, providing financial insight, operational analysis, and guidance to drive profitability, productivity, and continuous improvement initiatives.
The Plant Controller will oversee budgeting, forecasting, cost accounting, inventory controls, financial reporting, and compliance while supporting day-to-day manufacturing operations.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead all plant accounting and financial reporting activities, ensuring accuracy and compliance with corporate policies and accounting standards.
- Partner with plant leadership to analyze financial performance and identify opportunities to improve profitability, cost control, and operational efficiency.
- Manage the monthly close process, including journal entries, account reconciliations, variance analysis, and financial reporting.
- Develop annual budgets, forecasts, and long-range financial plans.
- Maintain and improve standard costing systems, including analysis of labor, material, overhead, scrap, and manufacturing variances.
- Monitor inventory accuracy and partner with operations to strengthen inventory controls and cycle count programs.
- Provide financial support for capital expenditures, investment analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Prepare and present key performance indicators (KPIs) and financial results to plant and executive leadership.
- Ensure compliance with internal controls, audit requirements, tax regulations, and company policies.
- Lead, develop, and mentor plant accounting staff as the organization grows.
- Support ERP system enhancements and process improvement projects.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
- CPA, CMA, or equivalent professional designation preferred.
- 5+ years of progressive manufacturing finance experience, with experience in a Plant Controller, Assistant Controller, Cost Accounting Manager, or similar leadership role.
- Strong background in cost accounting, inventory management, and standard costing within a manufacturing environment.
- Experience supporting plant operations in a high-volume manufacturing setting.
- Advanced Excel and ERP system experience.
- Strong analytical, communication, and business partnering skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently while influencing cross-functional teams.
Preferred Experience
- Metals, industrial manufacturing, automotive, heavy manufacturing, or processing industry experience.
- Multi-site manufacturing environment experience.
- Experience supporting operational excellence, lean manufacturing, or continuous improvement initiatives.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive base salary
- Performance-based bonus opportunity
- Comprehensive health and benefit package
- Retirement savings program
- Career advancement opportunities within a growing organization
This position is ideal for a finance leader who enjoys being visible on the plant floor, partnering with operations, and helping drive business results through strong financial leadership.
