Plant Controller

We are looking for an experienced Plant Controller to lead financial operations for a manufacturing environment in San Diego, California. This position will guide accounting activities, strengthen reporting accuracy, and provide insight that supports plant performance and business decisions. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in cost accounting, month-end close, budgeting, and compliance within a complex industrial setting.Responsibilities:• Direct day-to-day accounting operations, including payables, receivables, payroll coordination, and the monthly financial close for multiple entities.• Lead the preparation of journal entries, reconciliations, and supporting schedules to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting.• Manage budgeting and forecasting activities by partnering with operational leaders to gather inputs, assess performance trends, and refine financial plans.• Review plant results against budget, investigate significant variances, and work with management teams to develop corrective actions.• Maintain accounting records, core master data, and financial process documentation to support reliable internal controls and consistent reporting practices.• Coordinate external audit requests, lender reviews, tax-related filings, and required business registrations by assembling complete and accurate documentation.• Oversee cost accounting activities by analyzing material, labor, and overhead costs, evaluating standard-versus-actual results, and highlighting improvement opportunities.• Partner with operations on physical inventory counts and cycle count programs, monitor inventory accuracy, identify root causes of discrepancies, and support corrective measures.• Prepare ad hoc financial analysis and reporting to support pricing reviews, cost center evaluations, and broader business decisions.• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.• 10-12 years of progressive accounting or finance experience, including leadership within a manufacturing setting.• Demonstrated background in cost accounting and month-end close processes.• Experience in aerospace, defense, manufacturing, or similarly regulated industrial environments.• Strong knowledge of accounting standards, financial controls, and reporting practices.• Advanced Excel skills with the ability to analyze large data sets effectively.• Hands-on experience with accounting or ERP platforms; familiarity with Profit Key, OneStream, or other cube-based reporting tools is advantageous.Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.© 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking “Apply Now,” you’re agreeing to Robert Half’s Terms of Use and Privacy Notice.