Controller

Santa Fe Springs, CA
Client Opportunities – Controller /
Regular Full-time /
On-site
GHJ Search and Staffing serves as the recruitment division of GHJ, a prominent national accounting and advisory firm. Our team provides qualified Accounting and Finance professionals on a temporary and permanent basis across a broad range of industries. GHJ’s relationship with our Global Advisory and Accounting Network provides the resources needed to better understand client’s needs, attract a higher caliber of candidates and assess candidate potential.

Overview
An established manufacturing company in the aerospace sector is seeking a skilled and strategic Controller to oversee accounting operations and financial reporting. This is a director-level role reporting directly to executive leadership, responsible for ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of all financial activities under U.S. GAAP. The ideal candidate is both hands-on and strategic, capable of driving efficiency, strengthening internal controls, and supporting long-term financial planning.

Key Responsibilities

    • Oversee the full general accounting function, including cost accounting, cash management, financial reporting, and balance sheet management.
    • Implement and maintain internal controls and accounting policies to safeguard company assets and ensure accurate reporting.
    • Manage the preparation of budgets and forecasts, partnering cross-functionally to analyze results and identify opportunities for improvement.
    • Deliver regular management reports with concise financial analysis to support decision-making and profitability goals.
    • Prepare income statements and oversee the accuracy of transactions recorded in accounting systems.
    • Ensure compliance with all financial policies, U.S. GAAP, and regulatory requirements.
    • Lead month-end and year-end close processes, including account reconciliations and supporting documentation.
    • Serve as primary contact for external audits and coordinate periodic reviews of financial records.
    • Manage tax filings and government reporting at local, state, and federal levels.
    • Drive process improvements and automation to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of financial reporting.
    • Oversee and audit inventories, including finished goods, raw materials, work in progress, tooling, and fixed assets.
    • Evaluate inventory values and conduct detailed product costing analyses as needed.
    • Supervise accounting team members and foster their professional development.
    • Maintain banking relationships and support treasury functions.

Qualifications

    • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance required; CPA strongly preferred.
    • 5+ years of combined accounting and finance experience, including at least 3 years in a management capacity.
    • Strong background in cost accounting and budgeting.
    • Experience in a manufacturing environment preferred.
    • Familiarity with ERP systems; experience with Plex or similar software a plus.
    • Proven experience managing the month-end/year-end close and preparing financial statements.
    • Aerospace industry experience preferred but not required.
    • Excellent analytical, communication, and leadership skills.
Compensation & Benefits
Salary up to $135,000 annually, depending on experience.
Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance; 401(k); paid time off; tuition reimbursement; and participation in an employee ownership or profit-sharing plan.

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