Plant Controller

LED FastStart • Plain Dealing, LA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Controller oversees all financial and accounting activities for the sawmill operation, ensuring accurate reporting, compliance, and cost control. This role partners closely with operations leadership to monitor production costs, analyze variances, support budgeting and forecasting, and safeguard company assets. The Controller serves as the financial steward for the site and a key member of the leadership team driving performance, profitability, and compliance with corporate and local standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA or CMA preferred.
• 5+ years of progressive accounting experience; manufacturing or sawmill experience strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of cost accounting, inventory management, and financial analysis.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and ERP systems (e.g., UKG, Sage, SAP, or similar).
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to thrive in a hands-on, fast-paced production environment.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day accounting functions, including general ledger, accounts payable, payroll reconciliation, and fixed assets.
• Prepare accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP and corporate reporting requirements.
• Maintain cost accounting systems for lumber production, log procurement, and by-product sales.
• Reconcile inventory, monitor production variances, and ensure accurate valuation of raw materials, WIP, and finished goods.
• Review and validate daily production, yield, and downtime data for financial impact.
• Ensure compliance with internal controls, company policies, and audit requirements.
• Lead the annual operating budget process and monthly forecast updates.
• Analyze actual results versus budget and identify key cost drivers or performance gaps.
• Provide financial insight to support decisions on pricing, production efficiency, and capital investment.
• Develop and maintain standard cost models and dashboards for leadership review.
• Partner with the General Manager, Maintenance Superintendent, and Production leadership to improve cost control, throughput, and yield.
• Participate in daily or weekly production meetings to align financial data with operational performance.
• Train and support department managers in understanding and managing budgets.
• Serve as the site contact for corporate finance, HR, and auditors.
• Ensure all accounting practices comply with GAAP, corporate policy, and Louisiana regulations.
• Monitor payroll and labor allocations for accuracy and adherence to labor law.
• Support environmental, safety, and ESG reporting through accurate tracking of related costs and spending.
• Maintain documentation and readiness for internal and external audits.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level