Operational Finance Analyst

About the role

The Operational Finance Analyst plays a critical role in supporting plant performance by delivering accurate financial reporting, actionable insights, and data-driven decision-making within a manufacturing environment. This role partners closely with operations, production teams, and leadership to analyze cost drivers, support budgeting and forecasting, and ensure financial results align with day-to-day plant activity.

Responsibilities

• Partner directly with production and plant operations to support cost analysis, production performance, and day-to-day financial decision-making
• Analyze key manufacturing cost drivers including labor, materials, and overhead to improve plant profitability and efficiency
• Maintain accuracy of financial reporting related to inventory, cost of goods sold (COGS), and production transactions
• Support budgeting and forecasting processes, ensuring alignment with operational activity
• Perform general accounting tasks including journal entries, account reconciliations, and month-end close support
• Collaborate cross-functionally to improve reporting, job costing visibility, and financial data accuracy within the plant
• Support accounts payable, accounts receivable, and fixed asset tracking tied to manufacturing operations and capital investments
• Translate production activity into clear financial insights for leadership
• Drive process improvements through enhanced Excel tools, reporting automation, and improved data visibility
• Support ERP system accuracy and contribute to ongoing system and reporting enhancements

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field
• 2–4 years of experience in manufacturing finance, cost accounting, or plant-based accounting roles (internships/co-ops considered)
• Exposure to cost accounting, inventory accounting, or production finance in a manufacturing environment
• Understanding of core accounting principles (GAAP), including general ledger and financial reporting processes
• Experience supporting month-end close and working with operational or plant-level financial data
• Experience with ERP systems (Dynamics 365, SAP, Plex, or similar) preferred
• Must be able to work onsite in Zeeland, MI
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without current or future sponsorship

Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of manufacturing cost drivers and plant operations finance
• Ability to analyze and interpret financial and operational data in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency in Excel for data analysis, reporting, and financial modeling
• Ability to partner effectively with production teams and non-financial stakeholders
• Strong problem-solving skills with a focus on identifying root causes and driving improvements
• High attention to detail with a commitment to accuracy and data integrity
• Ownership mindset with a proactive approach to improving processes and reporting
• Interest in developing across both accounting and operational finance