About the Controller Role at Robert Half

Robert Half is proud to partner with a leading organization in Newburyport, Massachusetts, to find an exceptional Controller for a strategic 6-12 month contract position. This pivotal role focuses on stabilizing site-level accounting and financial operations while ensuring seamless continuity of critical processes. As Controller, you will serve as the financial cornerstone for the site, collaborating directly with operations, sales, and leadership teams to drive data-driven decisions and operational excellence.

This contract opportunity offers experienced finance professionals the chance to make an immediate impact in a dynamic manufacturing environment. With a competitive hourly rate of $59.38 (equivalent to approximately $123,700 annually based on full-time hours), this position provides flexibility and professional growth while working with cutting-edge financial systems and processes. Located in beautiful Newburyport, MA, you'll enjoy a vibrant coastal community just minutes from historic sites, beaches, and Boston's professional opportunities.

Why This Controller Role Stands Out

Unlike traditional Controller positions, this role emphasizes hands-on process stabilization and strategic advisory partnership. You'll have direct access to site leadership, influencing key decisions through actionable financial insights. The 6-12 month duration provides the perfect runway to implement lasting improvements while maintaining professional flexibility. Robert Half's extensive network ensures seamless transitions to future opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

The Controller will lead comprehensive financial oversight with a focus on operational excellence:

• Lead monthly financial close processes including complex journal entries, account reconciliations, and accurate financial reporting
• Design and track site-specific KPIs and performance metrics to drive business performance
• Create compelling financial presentations and deliver ad hoc analyses for executive leadership
• Partner with sales and operations on cost accounting, gross margin analysis, and profitability optimization
• Manage sophisticated job costing for capital sales projects with precise cost allocation and invoicing support
• Conduct deep-dive manufacturing cost variance analysis to uncover efficiency opportunities
• Serve as primary financial advisor to site leadership, translating complex data into strategic recommendations
• Develop comprehensive SOPs, workflows, and system documentation for sustainable processes
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within existing financial systems
• Provide expert input for future ERP/system implementations and ensure current system stability

Required Qualifications

We're seeking a proven financial leader with:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (Master's/CPA preferred)
• 5+ years progressive accounting experience, ideally in manufacturing Controller roles
• Deep GAAP expertise and advanced financial reporting capabilities
• Proven success in cost accounting, job costing, and variance analysis
• Technical proficiency in ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, etc.) and advanced Excel
• Demonstrated process improvement track record with SOP development
• Exceptional communication skills for executive presentations and cross-functional collaboration
• Analytical mindset with ability to translate financial data into business strategy

Why Join Us Through Robert Half

Partnering with Robert Half means accessing premier contract opportunities with Fortune 500 companies and industry leaders. Our Controllers enjoy competitive compensation, weekly pay, and priority access to permanent placements. Newburyport offers an exceptional quality of life with its historic charm, waterfront living, and proximity to Boston's career hub.

This Controller contract represents a rare opportunity to shape financial strategy at the site leadership level while building your network through Robert Half's industry connections. With immediate impact potential and professional flexibility, this role accelerates your career trajectory in manufacturing finance.

Apply today through Robert Half to secure your position as Controller in Newburyport, MA. Join our network of top finance professionals driving business success nationwide.