Plant Accounting Specialist (Remote TN) - Cost & Inventory

Location: Remote – Tennessee Travel Requirement: Up to 25% monthly travel to the manufacturing plant Systems: AS/400 (IBM i) with SAP implementation planned in CY26 Reporting: Into the Regional Controller Position Summary The Manufacturing Plant Accountant is responsible for supporting the financial operations of a manufacturing facility, with a strong focus on cost accounting, inventory, and production-related financial activities. This role partners closely with plant leadership, operations, and corporate finance to ensure accurate financial reporting, cost control, and compliance with company policies. The position is remote within the state of Tennessee, with regular on-site presence at the plant as required. Key Responsibilities Prepare and post journal entries related to manufacturing operations, including production, labor, overhead, and inventory transactions Coordinate and reconcile production reporting, including units produced, scrap, and variances Analyze labor hours and manufacturing costs; investigate and explain variances to standards and budget Support month-end and year-end close activities for the plant Inventory & Production Coordination Maintain accurate inventory records, including raw materials, WIP, and finished goods Partner with production and operations teams to validate inventory movements and production reporting Support physical inventory counts and cycle counts; investigate and resolve discrepancies Monitor inventory reserves, obsolescence, and adjustments Accounts Payable / Accounts Receivable Support plant-related AP and AR activities, including invoice review, accruals, and reconciliations Ensure timely and accurate processing of plant expenses and intercompany transactions Coordinate with vendors and internal stakeholders to resolve discrepancies Systems & Reporting Utilize AS/400 (IBM i) for production, inventory, and financial transactions Prepare and analyze plant financial reports, including P&L, cost summaries, and variance analyses Ensure compliance with internal controls, accounting policies, and audit requirements Assist with process improvements and system enhancements related to plant accounting Serve as a key finance partner to plant management and operations Travel to the manufacturing plant up to 25% monthly to support operations, inventory counts, and cross-functional collaboration Qualifications Required Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field 3–5 years of accounting experience in a manufacturing or plant environment Hands-on experience with AS/400 (IBM i) and / or SAP Strong understanding of cost accounting, inventory, and manufacturing processes Experience with journal entries, AP/AR, and account reconciliations Ability to work remotely with periodic on-site plant support Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills Superior data accuracy and accountability Preferred Experience supporting multiple plants or remote plant accounting Knowledge of standard costing and variance analysis Experience working closely with production and operations teams CPA or CMA designation (or progress toward certification) Remote-based role within the state of Tennessee Travel to the manufacturing plant (up to 25%) Occasional extended hours during month-end close, inventory counts or SAP implementation #J-18808-Ljbffr