Plant Controller

Challenge Machinery has entrusted Management Business Solutions to be a value-add partner in their recruitment for the Plant Controller position. As a solution-based staffing organization, we have aligned our processes to mirror Challenge Machinery’s talent strategies to identify, screen, and recruit qualified candidates.

SUMMARY: We are seeking an experienced Plant Controller to lead the management of our internal financial operations. This will encompass day-to-day accounting and financial management, cost accounting, inventory, budgeting and forecasting, operations interfaces and controls / process improvement.  Reporting to the President of this 150+ year-old equipment manufacturer, and working closely with the rest of the Challenge Machinery team, you will work to ensure that our current hands-on and future operational objectives are met.   

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Day-to-Day Accounting & Financial Management

• Own the full accounting cycle including month-end close, financial statements, and general ledger activity
• Prepare accurate monthly financials (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow)
• Manage AP/AR oversight, payroll coordination, and cash management
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of financial data

Cost Accounting & Inventory

• Maintain and improve cost accounting processes, including inventory valuation and standard costing
• Analyze material, labor, and overhead variances and provide clear insights to leadership
• Partner with production to understand cost drivers and identify opportunities for improvement

Budgeting, Forecasting & Business Support

• Lead annual budgeting and ongoing forecasting processes
• Provide financial insights to support pricing, margins, and operational decisions
• Act as a true business partner to leadership – not just reporting numbers, but helping interpret them

Operations Partnership

• Work closely with production and leadership to improve efficiency and profitability
• Get out on the floor to understand workflows, challenges, and opportunities
• Help implement practical, data-driven improvements

Controls & Process Improvement

• Establish and maintain appropriate internal controls for a company of this size
• Continuously improve processes, reporting, and systems
• Ensure compliance with standard accounting practices (GAAP), without unnecessary complexity

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• 5+ years of accounting experience, preferably in an equipment manufacturing or similar environment
• Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., ECI Max) with working knowledge of MRP (Material Requirements Planning) processes and advanced Microsoft Excel.
• CPA or CMA is a plus, but not required
• Strong understanding of cost accounting and inventory
• Experience working in smaller companies or lean teams (highly preferred)
• Comfortable being both strategic and hands-on
• Strong Excel skills, and experience with manufacturing systems

MANAGEMENT BUSINESS SOLUTIONS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER