Assistant Controller

Description

The Assistant Controller partners with the Controller to lead the core operations of the Accounting function. The role owns the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close, financial reporting, external audits, and internal controls, and ensures results are accurate, timely, and compliant with GAAP.

This is a hands-on leadership role. The ideal candidate is a CPA with manufacturing accounting experience who leads and develops the accounting team, reviews work at the detail level, and drives improvements to processes and systems.

Requirements

Financial Close & Reporting

• Lead the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close, including the close calendar, journal entry review, account reconciliations, and variance analysis.

• Prepare accurate and timely financial statements and supporting schedules in accordance with GAAP.

• Analyze financial results to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement, and communicate findings to the Controller and finance leadership.

Accounting Operations

• Manage general ledger, fixed asset, and intercompany accounting, including intercompany reconciliations.

• Ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial data across the general ledger and subledgers.

• Monitor cash flow and support cash forecasting and cash management strategies.

Audit, Tax & Compliance

• Coordinate external audits as the primary point of contact, including audit schedules, supporting documentation, and resolution of audit requests and findings.

• Support tax filings and regulatory compliance with local, state, and federal requirements, in partnership with tax advisors.

• Maintain internal controls and keep accounting policies and procedures current, compliant, and efficient.

Team Leadership

• Lead, coach, and develop the accounting team, including setting priorities, reviewing work, and managing performance.

• Partner with cross-functional teams to align accounting practices and financial operations with business activity and company goals.

• Identify and implement process improvements with the Controller to strengthen controls and improve close efficiency.

Systems & Technology

• Oversee the maintenance and enhancement of ERP and accounting systems.

• Support system implementations and upgrades, ensuring data integrity, testing, and user training.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.

• Active CPA license.

• 10+ years of progressive accounting experience, including 3+ years in a senior accounting or accounting management role within a manufacturing company.

• In-depth knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting.

• Proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., Syteline, NetSuite, or similar) and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Public accounting experience.

• Public company experience, including SOX compliance or a comparable internal control framework.

• Experience with budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning.

• Prior involvement in process improvement or system implementation projects.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

• High attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities against deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Hands-on leadership style, working alongside the team as needed.

• Clear communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to explain financial information to non-finance partners.

Work Environment

• Hybrid schedule: on-site in Vernon, CA 3–4 days per week.