Project Controller

Burke Porter, an Ascential Technologies Brand•Grand Rapids, MI

About The Position

Ascential Technologies is a global leader in automated diagnostic, testing, and production solutions serving life sciences and specialty industrial markets. With operations across 14 countries and 4 continents, Ascential brings together deep technical expertise across microfluidics, optics, additive manufacturing, motion control, and software to help customers achieve the impossible. The Test & Measurement (T&M) Systems division is a strategic growth engine within Ascential, serving OEMs, Tier-1 suppliers, testing laboratories, and aftermarket customers across Aerospace, Industrials, Automotive, and adjacent markets. Role Summary The Project Controller partners with the Group Controller and Project Management teams to drive financial discipline, transparency, and accountability across projects. This role focuses on forecasting rigor, performance analysis, and cost accounting. Actively challenging assumptions, pressure‑testing forecasts, and ensuring project financial performance is clearly understood and managed. This is a hands‑on, analytical role requiring strong business judgment and the confidence to push back constructively.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
5–8 years of experience in project controlling, cost accounting, or operational finance
Strong analytical skills with the ability to challenge assumptions and explain financial impacts clearly
Experience working directly with project or operations teams
ERP and advanced Excel skills required

Nice To Haves

Prior ownership of a project accounting role, including direct responsibility for project financial results
Experience with Percentage of Completion (POC) or other long‑term project revenue recognition methodologies

Responsibilities

Partner with Project Managers to monitor project performance, including actuals vs. budget and forecast
Actively challenge and validate project forecasts through pressure testing and scenario analysis
Identify early warning signs of cost overruns, margin erosion, or schedule risk
Develop, standardize, and maintain forecasting and reporting templates in collaboration with the PM team
Improve consistency and discipline in project financial reporting
Support monthly project reviews with clear, data‑driven insights
Manage and analyze cost accounting related to labor rates, overhead, and absorption
Monitor labor efficiency, utilization, and absorption trends
Support continuous improvement of cost models and rate structures
Serve as a financial sounding board for Project Managers—constructively pushing back where assumptions do not align with data
Work closely with the Group Controller to ensure project results properly flow into financial reporting
Support audits and reviews related to project accounting and revenue recognition (as applicable)