Plant Controller

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Principal at OnDeck Solutions | Connecting People with Opportunity

Location: Lansing, MI

Industry: Advanced Manufacturing / Automotive / Industrial Components

Job Type: Full-Time

Reports To: CFO

Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Plant Controller to lead the finance and IT functions for a global manufacturer with operations in Eaton Rapids, MI. This individual will act as a strategic partner to both the corporate and plant leadership teams—driving performance through strong financial oversight, budgeting, forecasting, and systems management. The ideal candidate is a people-first leader with deep experience in plant-level accounting, operational finance, and cross-functional team development within a manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the plant’s accounting and IT teams , setting daily direction and long-term strategy.
• Own the financial close process , including reporting, forecasting, budgeting, and variance analysis.
• Develop and execute accurate financial reporting for plant-level KPIs to help drive business performance.
• Partner with corporate finance and plant operations to align goals and ensure cost and performance targets are met.
• Oversee budgeting process, capital planning, and ensure accurate accruals for labor, overhead, and materials.
• Approve general ledger entries, AP runs, and ensure timely submission of financial reporting packages.
• Act as primary point of contact for internal/external auditors and regulatory reporting requirements.
• Provide leadership and coaching to team members, including performance management and skills development.
• Manage ERP systems and financial software—ensuring tools are optimized for efficiency and compliance.
• Represent the plant in cross-functional leadership meetings , helping to guide key decisions.
• Support ISO 14001 Environmental Management compliance in coordination with company standards.
• Champion process improvement, automation, and digital transformation within the finance function.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA or CMA preferred.
• 7+ years of progressive financial experience , with at least 3 years in a plant controller or senior manufacturing finance role.
• Strong understanding of GAAP , cost accounting, variance analysis, and financial controls.
• Proven leadership skills and the ability to manage, mentor, and develop a team.
• Experience working in ERP environments (e.g., Plex, SAP, Oracle).
• Exceptional analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Comfortable leading in a fast-paced, matrixed, and performance-driven culture.
• Ability to travel occasionally for corporate or regional leadership meetings.

Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of capital budgeting, tooling/project cost tracking, and ROI modeling.
• Familiarity with automotive, Tier 1/Tier 2 manufacturing , or heavy industrial environments.
• Ability to work cross-functionally across operations, HR, engineering, and corporate finance.
• Exposure to both traditional and advanced manufacturing environments, including lean practices.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Competitive base salary (target range available upon request)
• Performance-based bonus potential
• Full medical, dental, vision, and life insurance package
• 401(k) with company match and additional pension/retirement benefits
• Generous PTO, paid holidays, and additional employee wellness programs

Seniority level

Director

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Accounting/Auditing

Industries

Motor Vehicle Manufacturing