Operational Controller

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips—the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables technologies like AI and IoT. Join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world.

About the role

You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a leading global company.

Location: Austin, TX. Travel: up to 10%. Relocation assistance available.

Responsibilities

• Lead critical financial planning and forecasting cycles for New Product organizations, ensuring data accuracy, integrity, and timely execution of deliverables.
• Drive cross-functional projects involving complex business relationships, strategic initiatives, and regular engagement with senior leadership.
• Review, monitor, and approve financial transactions and activities for assigned business areas while ensuring compliance with company policies and controls.
• Develop comprehensive financial models, analyses, and executive-level presentations to support strategic decision-making.
• Serve as a process integration lead and/or workstream owner for local, regional, and global finance initiatives.
• Partner with Operations, Manufacturing, Business Units, and Supply Chain teams to provide financial insights and influence business outcomes.
• Identify opportunities for operational improvements, cost optimization, and process efficiencies through data-driven analysis.
• Serve as the Period, Burden, and Variance Analysis subject matter expert, driving operational performance and financial transparency.
• Support gross margin improvement initiatives.
• Manage inventory-related financial impacts and collaborate on E&OP planning and execution.
• Support Manufacturing Plan of Record development and execution through financial analysis and business partnership.
• Provide financial leadership for strategic investments in automation, digital transformation, IT systems, and capacity expansion.
• Partner with Business Units on material strategy development and execution to optimize cost, supply continuity, and profitability.
• Drive on-time delivery, cost performance, and customer satisfaction through strategic business partnership and financial stewardship.

Requirements

• Demonstrates deep expertise in financial planning, forecasting, cost management, manufacturing finance, and operational performance analysis.
• Acts as a subject matter expert in key finance processes, tools, and reporting methodologies.
• Interprets internal and external business challenges and translates insights into actionable recommendations that improve financial and operational performance.
• Understands the relationship between financial results, operational drivers, and strategic business objectives.
• Leads cross-functional projects and initiatives with moderate to high complexity, balancing competing priorities, resources, and stakeholder expectations.
• Influences decision-making without direct authority and effectively drives alignment across organizations.
• Solves complex, ambiguous business challenges using advanced analytical techniques, sound judgment, and innovative thinking.
• Anticipates risks and develops proactive solutions that support organizational objectives.
• Communicates complex financial concepts clearly to both financial and non-financial audiences, including senior leadership.
• Builds strong partnerships across Finance, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Business Unit organizations.

Benefits

At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We’re committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.

Pay

Salary range: $116,000 – $159,500. The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and internal equity.

Schedule

Full-time regular position.