Plant controllers are used in a variety of industries. Their primary responsibility is to oversee all aspects of the plant’s financial administration. Regardless of when the plant is producing, plant controllers typically work during normal business hours. Before becoming plant controllers, many controllers have MBAs and have worked in positions with increasing levels of responsibility for several years.
One of the plant controller’s responsibilities is to prepare a monthly accounting report. This includes keeping track of inventory costs, labor costs, overhead, and depreciation on equipment. In addition, a monthly reconciliation of the balance sheets using a general ledger format is required.
The plant controller is also involved in budget planning for the future. This necessitates the ability to calculate an approximate budget based on past costs and future planned projects. The controller is also responsible for accurate and timely analysis of all financial reports. A financial team that includes accountants, accounting clerks, and administrative assistants is often supervised a controller. This task necessitates the use of communication skills.
A plant controller is responsible for staying up to date on the latest legislation affecting a specific industry. The controller is responsible for ensuring that the company complies with the law. The position is usually overseen the company’s operations director.
Aside from financial analysis, the controller is responsible for developing and adjusting all accounting procedures for the company to ensure accurate results. These procedures must comply with company policy as well as state and local regulations. The plant controller is also in charge of developing and overseeing the company’s checks-and-balances procedures.
Some businesses demand that the controller meet with department heads to educate them on the importance of accurate accounting. The training and procedures are then passed on to their subordinates the managers. The controller analyzes any sudden or unexpected losses, such as inventory damaged in a flood, and makes recommendations on how to make up for the loss. The plant controller will be available to answer questions, explain documentation, and discuss errors in the event of a company or government financial audit.
Plant controllers are typically required to have at least five years of experience working as a financial manager for a company. Two of those years should be spent in a plant-based setting. On the resume, increasing levels of accounting responsibility should be demonstrated. Because of the need to communicate with various department managers, communication skills are essential.