Plant Controller

About the role

Chase Corporation is seeking a hands-on Plant Controller to lead all financial activities for a manufacturing site. This role serves as the primary finance partner to plant leadership, responsible for cost accounting, financial reporting, budgeting, and driving operational performance. The Plant Controller plays a critical role in ensuring financial accuracy, strengthening controls, and providing insights that improve efficiency, reduce costs, and expand margins. This position requires a strong understanding of manufacturing operations and the ability to translate financial data into actionable business decisions.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the finance lead for the plant, partnering with Operations leadership to drive performance and accountability
• Provide financial guidance on cost control, productivity, and capital investments
• Support decision-making through clear analysis of operational and financial data
• Own inventory valuation and cost of goods sold (COGS) accuracy, including standard costing and variance analysis
• Maintain BOMs, routings, and standard costs to ensure accurate product costing
• Partner with Supply Chain and Operations on inventory controls, cycle counts, and obsolescence management
• Lead the monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes for the plant
• Prepare journal entries, account reconciliations, and audit support
• Ensure strong internal controls and compliance with corporate policies and accounting standards
• Lead the plant’s annual budget and monthly forecast processes
• Analyze results versus budget, forecast, and prior periods; identify key drivers and recommend actions
• Monitor and report on KPIs, including cost, productivity, and working capital metrics
• Support ERP systems (Oracle/JD Edwards), including upgrades, data integrity, and process improvements
• Drive continuous improvement in financial processes, reporting, and operational efficiency
• Leverage data and systems (e.g., Global Insight or similar tools) to enhance visibility and decision-making

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing finance, including cost accounting and plant-level support; prior experience as a Plant Controller or similar role preferred
• Strong understanding of standard costing, inventory accounting, and core manufacturing processes
• Advanced proficiency in Excel; experience with ERP systems such as Oracle or JD Edwards required
• Demonstrated ability to partner with plant leadership, influence decisions, and translate financial results into operational actions
• Strong business acumen with a hands-on, detail-oriented approach and the ability to operate both strategically and tactically
• High level of ownership, accountability, and adaptability, with a continuous improvement mindset in a fast-paced environment
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA or CMA preferred