Operations Controller

Petoskey Plastics aspires to stand out as an industry leader in sustainability, using advanced recycling technology to manufacture high-quality films, bags, and resins from post-consumer materials. Our commitment to eco-friendly innovation sets us apart, as we strive to earn the appreciation and respect of our customers, associates, and communities. If you are seeking a family-oriented company that values career growth and provides robust paid training, explore the comprehensive benefits listed below to see how Petoskey Plastics can support your professional journey. 
 
We’re headquartered in Petoskey where our Lake Michigan shores are clasped by rhythmic waves of seafoam and cobalt. We’re honored to have roots in Texas, Tennessee, and Indiana as our production has expanded over the years. Our custom-engineered solutions tackle a variety of industries, including automotive, industrial, institutional, retail, construction, home improvement, medical, and more.  
 
Always moving forward! > IN THE NEWS 

A few of our over 20 competitive benefits: 

• Medical, Prescription, Dental, and Vision benefits - valued at $4/hr over your base pay! 

• PTO 

• Petoskey Plastics pays 3% of your annual earnings into your 401k regardless of your contribution! 

• Profit Sharing 

• Tuition Reimbursement 

• Wellness Reimbursement (up to $400 annually)  

• Life Insurance 

• Short- and Long-Term Disability 

The Operations Controller serves as the financial leader for the manufacturing plants, acting as a key business partner to the Plant Manager and Operations team. This role is responsible for driving financial performance, ensuring cost control, overseeing accurate reporting, and providing strategic insight to support decision-making. The Operations Controller will also ensure compliance with internal controls, corporate policies, and GAAP.

Key Responsibilities

Operations Planning, Reporting & Analysis

• Lead the annual plant budgeting process and periodic forecast updates
• Develop and deliver weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual reports, including driver-based performance dashboards and variance commentary
• Analyze manufacturing cost variances (materials, labor, overhead), identifying root causes and recommend action
• Perform cost and inventory analytics, inclusive of recommendations.
• Maintain accurate standard costing
• Ensure proper BOM and routing accuracy in ERP system

Business Partnering & Decision Support

• Develop financial models, ROI analyses, and capital expenditure evaluations for site-level projects
• Provide data-driven recommendations on process improvements, productivity, and cost-saving initiatives; validate cost savings opportunities
• Identify operational inefficiencies and lead process standardization across sites
• Participate in continuous improvement (Lean/Six Sigma) initiatives with financial justification

Internal Controls & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to policies and internal control procedures for fixed assets, tool crib/critical spares and inventory
• Manage inventory valuation, cycle counts, and physical inventory processes
• Control repair and maintenance costs and ensure a strong system of control over tool crib and spare parts
• Support internal and external audits

Leadership & Communication

• Educate plant leadership on financial principles and performance drivers
• Lead or support financial training for department managers

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field (required)
• CPA, CMA, or MBA (preferred)

Experience

• 5–10 years of progressive experience in finance/accounting roles
• 3 years in a manufacturing environment (required)

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Strong cost accounting and inventory management experience
• Multi-site experience a plus
• Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, lookups, financial modeling)
• ERP systems experience (Epicor, SAP, Oracle, or similar)
• Deep understanding of cost accounting, standard costing, and inventory valuation
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to partner with operational leaders and influence decision-making
• Detail-oriented, self-motivated, and proactive

Essential Functions

• Regular and Reliable Attendance
• Standing
• Sitting
• Walking
• Lifting/Carrying up to 30 pounds
• Reading
• Writing
• Problem Solving
• Decision Making
• Concentration

Salary : $4 - $400