What are the responsibilities and job description for the Controller (Full Time) position at High Country Lumber?
Job Title: Controller
Reports To: CFO
Location: Bishop, CA – On site 80%, 20% Remote
How To Apply: Click Here (Only Online Application Submissions will be considered)
About High Country Lumber
High Country Lumber is a proud, locally & employee-owned ACE Hardware Store and Building Center serving our community with expertise, integrity, and friendly service. We help everyone from weekend DIYers to seasoned contractors get their projects done right—and we’re looking for a knowledgeable, motivated Finance Department Lead to join our team.
We are Employee Owned and offer an industry competitive pay package which includes base salary, performance bonus, 401k, stock ownership, exceptional health care benefits, and PTO.
Position Overview
The Controller is the functional lead to oversee all financial and accounting operations and staff across High Country Lumber’s retail and distribution business. This position ensures accurate reporting, compliance, and cost efficiency while supporting the company’s mission of providing exceptional value and service to the Eastern Sierra community. The Controller plays a key role in managing inventory valuation, product costing, cash flow, and profitability across multiple locations, while partnering closely with leadership to drive operational excellence and long-term growth.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management & Reporting
- Functional lead for all monthly, quarterly, and annual financial closing processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
- Ensure that HCL is prepared for external audits and reviews.
- Ensure that all financial statements (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow) are prepared in accordance with GAAP.
- Develop budgets and forecasts; monitor performance and identify variances.
- Provide financial insights to support strategic decision-making, pricing, and margin management.
- Work with external and internal systems teams to ensure that transactions are effectively recorded and reported.
Cost Accounting & Inventory Control
- Oversee product costing, bill of materials, and standard cost updates.
- Analyze material usage, freight, and labor efficiency to optimize gross margins.
- Maintain strong internal controls for inventory valuation, cycle counts, and reconciliations.
- Collaborate with operations and store management to improve inventory turnover and reduce waste.
- Report on Cost Accounting and Inventory Control.
Operational & Strategic Support
- Partner with operations, purchasing, and logistics, payroll and external teams to enhance financial processes and controls.
- Monitor capital expenditures and evaluate return on investment (ROI) for facility and equipment improvements.
- Develop financial models for new product lines, supplier agreements, and business growth opportunities.
- Support leadership with cash flow forecasting, treasury management and working capital management.
Compliance & Risk Management
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations.
- Coordinate annual audits and liaise with external auditors.
- Maintain strong internal controls to safeguard company assets.
- Oversee AR/AP, payroll, and credit management functions.
Leadership & Team Development
- Manage and mentor accounting staff with a focus on accuracy, efficiency, and professional growth.
- Foster a culture of integrity, accountability, and teamwork.
- Champion the use of ERP systems and technology to streamline financial processes.
Required Qualifications
-
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA or CMA preferred.
Candidates must hold a degree in Accounting, Finance, or an equivalent field from an accredited university. - 7 years of progressive accounting experience, including at least 3 years in a leadership role.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications
- Industry experience in building materials, retail, manufacturing, or distribution strongly preferred.
- Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., Epicor, NetSuite, Sage, or similar) and advanced Excel/spreadsheet skills.
- Strong understanding of cost accounting, inventory management, and multi-location operations.
- Experience supporting a small-to-mid-sized business environment.
- Public accounting auditing experience.
Core Competencies
- Financial acumen and business insight
- Systems aptitude and focus on automation and efficiency
- Strategic problem-solving and analytical thinking
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Leadership and collaboration
- Continuous process improvement mindset
Culture & Benefits
At High Country Lumber, we believe in treating employees like family. As a long-standing, community-based company, we value teamwork, integrity, and a genuine commitment to service—both to our customers and to each other.
What makes working here special:
- Community roots: Be part of a respected, family-owned business that’s been a cornerstone of the Eastern Sierra for decades.
- Small-town lifestyle: Enjoy the unique balance of rewarding professional work and outdoor living—the Eastern Sierra is known for its year-round hiking, climbing, skiing, and fishing.
- Hands-on leadership: Collaborate directly with ownership and department heads to make a meaningful impact on business operations.
- Growth mindset: We encourage innovation and continuous improvement in all aspects of the business.
- Competitive compensation and benefits: Includes health coverage, retirement plan, paid time off, and employee discounts on building materials and home improvement products.