Plant Controller Opportunity in Lancaster, South Carolina

Robert Half is excited to partner with a leading manufacturing company in Lancaster, South Carolina, to find a dynamic Plant Controller. This pivotal role is perfect for a seasoned financial professional passionate about driving operational excellence through precise cost accounting, inventory management, and strategic financial analysis. Located in the heart of South Carolina's thriving industrial sector, this position offers the chance to lead financial operations at a plant known for innovation and growth. If you're seeking Plant Controller jobs in Lancaster, SC, or manufacturing finance careers, this opportunity provides stability, impact, and professional advancement.

About the Role

As Plant Controller, you will serve as the financial guardian of the manufacturing plant, ensuring accuracy in cost tracking, seamless month-end processes, and actionable insights for leadership. This role demands a proactive leader who can bridge finance and operations, optimizing costs while fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Reporting directly to senior leadership, you'll play a key role in budgeting, forecasting, and performance metrics that directly influence plant profitability. With Lancaster, SC's growing manufacturing hub—home to automotive, aerospace, and advanced materials firms—this position aligns with high-demand skills in cost accounting jobs and inventory control. Join Robert Half's network of top finance talent and elevate your career in a supportive, high-growth environment.

Key Responsibilities

The Plant Controller will oversee critical financial functions to support plant-wide success:

• Lead cost accounting processes: Design and manage systems for accurate tracking of manufacturing costs, variances, and performance metrics.
• Handle standard costing and allocations: Maintain precise cost models across production lines, materials, and overheads.
• Direct month-end activities: Execute timely closes, reconciliations, journal entries, and reviews to meet reporting deadlines.
• Deliver financial insights: Analyze data trends to guide strategic decisions on pricing, efficiency, and investments.
• Ensure internal controls: Implement robust compliance with GAAP, SOX, and industry standards to mitigate risks.
• Collaborate cross-functionally: Work with operations, procurement, and engineering to drive cost savings and lean initiatives.
• Prepare reports: Craft detailed P&L, balance sheets, and KPIs for executive presentations.
• Optimize systems: Utilize ERP platforms like SAP or Oracle for data integrity and workflow automation.
• Monitor budgets: Track variances and recommend optimizations to enhance profitability.
• Develop talent: Mentor accounting staff, fostering skills in financial analysis and reporting.

Required Qualifications

To excel as our Plant Controller, candidates should possess:

• A Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business; CPA, CMA, or equivalent preferred.
• 5-10 years in manufacturing finance, with hands-on plant controller or cost accounting experience.
• Deep expertise in standard costing, inventory valuation, and variance analysis.
• Proven success in month-end closes, financial reporting, and ERP systems.
• Strong analytical mindset with tools like Excel, Power BI, or advanced financial software.
• Excellent communication skills for stakeholder engagement and team leadership.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes (e.g., BOMs, cycle counting, lean principles).
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced plant environment with occasional travel.

This role requires a strategic thinker who can translate numbers into business stories, ideal for professionals eyeing senior finance roles in South Carolina manufacturing.

Why Join Us?

Partnering with Robert Half means access to a world-class company offering competitive compensation ($110,000-$150,000 estimated base, plus bonuses), comprehensive benefits, and a collaborative culture. Enjoy Lancaster's low cost of living, proximity to Charlotte, NC, and outdoor recreation while advancing in a stable industry. Robert Half provides unmatched placement support, interview prep, and career resources. This Plant Controller position won't last—apply today to secure your future in manufacturing finance excellence. Keywords: Plant Controller Lancaster SC, Cost Accountant jobs, Manufacturing Controller careers.