Senior Plant Accountant

The Senior Plant Accountant will play a crucial role in the financial management and reporting of a leading manufacturing company's plant operations in the Chicago area. This position requires a strong understanding of accounting principles, manufacturing processes, and financial analysis. The Senior Plant Accountant will work closely with the plant management team and the corporate finance department to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting, cost analysis, and budgeting. They will also be responsible for maintaining compliance with applicable accounting standards and internal controls.Responsibilities:Financial Reporting: Prepare and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements for the plant operations. This includes income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. Ensure accuracy, completeness, and adherence to accounting principles and company policies.Cost Analysis: Monitor and analyze manufacturing costs, including direct labor, material costs, overhead expenses, and variances. Identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements. Provide recommendations to the management team for cost optimization.Budgeting and Forecasting: Collaborate with the plant management team to develop annual budgets and forecasts. Track actual performance against budgeted targets and provide variance analysis. Assist in the development of strategic plans and financial projections.Inventory Management: Oversee the inventory accounting process, including valuation, reconciliation, and physical inventory counts. Ensure accuracy and proper valuation of inventory. Analyze inventory levels and provide recommendations for optimizing inventory turnover and minimizing obsolete or slow-moving inventory.Internal Controls: Implement and maintain effective internal controls related to plant accounting processes. Ensure compliance with company policies, accounting standards, and regulatory requirements. Identify areas of risk and implement appropriate controls to mitigate those risks.Financial Analysis: Conduct financial analysis to support decision-making processes. Evaluate investment opportunities, capital expenditures, and profitability of new products or initiatives. Provide insights and recommendations to plant management based on financial analysis.Audit Support: Coordinate and assist with internal and external audits of the plant operations. Prepare audit schedules, provide necessary documentation, and address audit findings.Team Collaboration: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, procurement, and finance, to gather information and support decision-making processes. Act as a trusted advisor to the plant management team on financial matters.Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation is preferred.Minimum of 5 years of experience in plant accounting or cost accounting within a manufacturing environment.Strong knowledge of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and cost accounting methodologies.Proficiency in financial analysis, budgeting, and forecasting.Experience with ERP systems and advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.Strong attention to detail and accuracy.Ability to work independently and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.