Plant Controller

Robert Half is currently recruiting for an experienced Plant Controller to lead financial oversight for a manufacturing client in Knoxville, Tennessee. This position will partner closely with plant leadership to strengthen cost visibility, support sound operational decisions, and maintain accurate financial reporting. The ideal candidate brings a strong background in plant accounting, inventory controls, and budgeting within a fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities:

• Direct plant-level accounting activities, including monthly close, journal entry preparation, and review of financial results for accuracy and completeness.

• Analyze manufacturing costs, standard cost performance, and cost of goods sold to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for improvement.

• Partner with operations leadership to develop budgets, update forecasts, and provide financial insights that support production and profitability goals.

• Maintain and validate bills of materials and costing structures to ensure reliable product costing and inventory valuation.

• Oversee inventory control processes, including cycle counts and annual physical inventory, while resolving discrepancies in a timely manner.

• Support accounts payable and accounts receivable activities by ensuring transactions are properly recorded and aligned with plant financial controls.

• Prepare and communicate regular financial reports and variance analyses to plant and corporate stakeholders.

• Strengthen internal controls and promote disciplined accounting practices across manufacturing finance processes.

The position will require a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance and a CPA is preferred. The position is 100% onsite and will require some to live in the local Knoxville or surrounding areas

For immediate consideration please contact Lisa Coker at 865-370-2084 to set up an interview

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of experience in plant finance, cost accounting, or manufacturing accounting roles.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing cost accounting, standard costing, and cost of goods sold analysis.
• Hands-on experience with month-end close processes, including journal entries and financial reconciliations.
• Background in budgeting and forecasting within a manufacturing or plant environment.
• Familiarity with inventory accounting, bills of materials, cycle counts, and annual physical inventory procedures.
• Understanding of accounts payable and accounts receivable processes as they relate to plant operations.
• Experience working with Eaton systems or comparable enterprise platforms is preferred.
• Ability to translate financial data into practical recommendations for operational leaders.

Compensation

$120,000.00-$150,000.00 Yearly

About Us

Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.

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