So sorry, this position is no longer available. Please go ahead and submit your application. We may have other positions that would be the perfect fit for you. Alternatively, you may want to apply to one of the following related jobs:

Manufacturing Operations Controller

Waukegan, IL 60087

Employment Type: Permanent Job Category: Accounting Job Number: 44279996 Compensation: $145000-150000 / year

Job Description

Title: Manufacturing Operations Controller
Location: Waukegan, IL area
Hire Type: Direct-Hire, Onsite
Target Base Salary: $145,000/year
Benefits: PTO, Paid Holidays, Medical, Dental, Vision, Annual Incentive Plan

Overview:
Sterling has helped build careers for thousands for professionals like yourself. Our expert recruiters support you at every step in the process and as a Best of Staffing company, Sterling provides exciting work with exceptional employers across the U.S.

Job Summary:
The Manufacturing Operations Controller is a highly visible role that supports the Regional Finance Director in managing inventory and collaborates with cross-functional teams to implement strategies aimed at reducing costs and enhancing plant productivity. A key responsibility is identifying trends and opportunities within the business to maintain optimal inventory levels and minimize obsolete stock.

Job Duties:
  • Support the Regional Finance Director in managing inventory levels and ensuring proper costing.
  • Maintain costing standards, including quarterly/annual cost updates, assigning and updating burden rates, overhead expense allocation, and working with Supply Chain & Operations teams to ensure accuracy and transparency in product costing.
  • Analyze costs related to inventory, labor, material purchases, and perform variance analysis with recommendations for improvement.
  • Collaborate with Operations teams to complete and review inventory reporting, covering both actuals and forecasts.
  • Provide analysis and commentary to explain variances from established benchmarks and support senior leadership in decision-making to achieve operational goals.
  • Work with the Operations team to identify cost-saving initiatives and projects that improve plant productivity metrics.
  • Partner with relevant teams to optimize inventory management, reduce excess and obsolete inventory, and prepare reports to track progress toward organizational targets.
  • Identify and implement improvements to management reporting processes, incorporating best practices across the finance function.
  • Create and manage an effective financial and operational metric system to provide real-time data on company performance concerning inventory.
  • Prepare ad-hoc analysis and reports to support internal and external reporting requirements.
  • Review capital expenditure projects, perform financial valuations, and present findings to senior leadership for approval.
  • Ensure compliance with accounting regulations, including GAAP and SOX, by performing regular reconciliations and communicating necessary adjustments to leadership.
  • Promote a continuous improvement mindset, partnering cross-functionally to enhance processes and drive results.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Accounting or Finance required. MBA is preferred.
  • 7+ years of relevant experience in manufacturing and cost accounting.
  • 3+ years working in a supervisory role.
  • CPA or CMA certification is highly preferred.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems (Epicor is a plus).
  • Strong knowledge of SOX and GAAP principles and regulations.
  • Experience in continuous improvement initiatives and processing large sets of numerical data.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information. 

Meet Your Recruiter

Mike Schmitz
Technical Recruiter

If you're a skilled professional in engineering, manufacturing, or life sciences and you're exploring your next career move—I'm here to help.

I’m a Senior Technical Recruiter and Team Leader who’s passionate about connecting great people with great companies. I specialize in placing candidates in roles within product, equipment, food/beverage, and pharmaceutical manufacturing, and I work closely with some of the most respected employers in the industry.

My approach is consultative, transparent, and relationship-driven. I’ll take the time to understand your goals, skills, and preferences—and then help you navigate the search process with confidence. From resume tips and interview prep to timely feedback and honest communication, my goal is to make your job search feel less stressful and more strategic.

I’ve worked with professionals at all levels—from early career to senior leadership—and I’m always looking to expand my network of talented candidates. Whether you’re actively on the market or just curious about what’s out there, I’d love to connect.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information. 

 As one of the most respected names in engineering staffing, Sterling has hundreds of opportunities with top employers. If you’ve got a friend or colleague seeking their next move in engineering, we could have their next opportunity. We offer a referral bonus for every referral that we place. Submit referral now. 

Apply Online

Send an email reminder to:

Share This Job:

Related Jobs:

Login to save this search and get notified of similar positions.

About Waukegan, IL

Looking to embark on an exciting career journey in the Waukegan, Illinois area? Dive into a world filled with captivating opportunities and endless growth potential! Nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, Waukegan offers a vibrant mix of culture, nature, and history. Home to the Genesee Theatre, Waukegan is not only rich in entertainment but also boasts a diverse culinary scene featuring everything from classic American diners to trendy bistros. Take a stroll through the Waukegan ArtWauk, a monthly art event showcasing local talent, or catch a game at the Waukegan Sports Park. Join us in this bustling community, where career possibilities await around every corner! Explore our job opportunities in Waukegan today and be part of this dynamic and thriving region.