Junior Industrial Controller 3592014

Junior Industrial Controller

Location: Bartlett, IL (Fully Time - On-site)

Company Overview

Our client is a leading international food manufacturing company with a strong U.S. presence.

The organization combines innovation, operational excellence, and continuous investment in manufacturing capabilities, offering a fast-paced and highly entrepreneurial environment with strong exposure to cross-functional teams and senior leadership.

This is a family-owned company where adaptability, flexibility, humility, and a hands-on mentality are critical for success.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a motivated and analytical Junior Industrial Controller to support the Financial Controller and Cost Controller functions across U.S. manufacturing operations.

This is an excellent entry-level/junior opportunity for someone looking to build a long-term career within manufacturing finance, plant operations, and industrial controlling.

The role offers strong exposure to:

• manufacturing operations
• finance & accounting
• operational analysis
• cost analysis
• ERP systems
• cross-functional collaboration

The selected candidate will work closely with senior finance leadership and will be heavily mentored and developed internally, making this an excellent growth opportunity for someone eager to learn and grow within a manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Close & Reporting

• Support monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes
• Perform account reconciliations and variance analysis
• Assist with plant financial reporting and operational analysis
• Support visibility into manufacturing and operational performance

Operational & Cost Analysis

• Support operational and manufacturing finance analysis activities
• Assist with variance analysis and plant performance reporting
• Support KPI tracking and operational reporting initiatives
• Assist with standard cost maintenance and cost analysis activities

Inventory & Internal Controls

• Partner with Operations to support inventory accuracy and valuation
• Assist with cycle counts and physical inventory processes
• Investigate discrepancies and support internal controls

ERP & Data Integrity

• Support ERP master data accuracy, including:
• Bills of Materials (BOMs)
• labor routings
• cost structures
• Assist with data validation and reporting accuracy
• Support systems and process improvement initiatives

Budgeting & Forecasting

• Support budgeting and forecasting activities
• Assist with tracking actuals vs. budget
• Help identify operational risks and opportunities

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Finance, Operations, Production, and Supply Chain teams
• Support financial analysis related to operational initiatives and new product launches
• Participate in continuous improvement projects

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field
• 1–3 years of experience in accounting, finance, operations, manufacturing, or related environments preferred
• Strong Excel and analytical skills
• Fully onsite availability in Bartlett, IL
• Authorization to work in the U.S. without sponsorship

Preferred Qualifications

• Exposure to manufacturing, inventory, operations, or plant environments
• Exposure to accounting, operational finance, cost analysis, or ERP systems
• SAP exposure is a plus

The company emphasized that manufacturing finance and cost accounting have a steep learning curve; therefore, any exposure to operational or manufacturing environments is considered highly valuable.

Recent graduates with relevant internships, co-ops, or early career experience within manufacturing or operations environments may also be considered.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will demonstrate:

• strong soft skills and communication abilities
• adaptability and flexibility
• willingness to learn and grow
• proactive attitude and curiosity
• long-term growth potential
• ability to thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on environment

This role is ideal for someone seeking a long-term career path within manufacturing finance and industrial controlling.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary 10% bonus
• Health, Dental & Vision insurance
• PTO
• 401(k)
• STD/LTD
• Life insurance

Additional Notes

• Fully onsite role
• No relocation assistance
• No sponsorship available