Assistant Controller

Assistant Controller (12–18 Month Contract) - Starting in 2026

Location: Chatham- Kent

Industry: Manufacturing

Reports To: Controller

Employment Type: Full-Time Contract (12–18 Months)

Pay Rate: To be discussed - range is $36-$46/ hour

About the Role

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Assistant Controller to join our finance team on a 12–18 month contract to support post-acquisition integration, financial operations, and process optimization at our manufacturing facility. This role plays a critical part in the transition and standardization of financial processes, working closely with the Controller to ensure accurate financial reporting, robust internal controls, and compliance with applicable accounting standards and regulations.

The ideal candidate brings a strong foundation in accounting within a manufacturing or industrial environment, coupled with excellent analytical skills and the ability to lead and support operational change.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Reporting & Accounting Operations

• Prepare and review journal entries, account reconciliations, and month-end close activities.

• Support accurate and timely preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP and internal policies.

• Manage and maintain general ledger integrity, sub-ledger interfaces, and intercompany transactions.

• Assist with audit preparation and liaise with external auditors as required.

Internal Controls & Compliance

• Develop, implement, and monitor internal controls to safeguard company assets.

• Ensure compliance with corporate policies, accounting standards, and statutory requirements.

• Participate in the documentation and enhancement of standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Post-Acquisition Integration

• Assist in integrating newly acquired entities into corporate financial systems and reporting frameworks.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., operations, procurement, IT) to align accounting practices post-acquisition.

Financial Planning & Analysis

• Analyze and interpret large datasets to inform strategic decision-making.

• Contribute to operational efficiency reviews and margin improvement initiatives.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Provide mentorship, training, and support to junior accounting staff.

• Act as a liaison between finance and manufacturing operations to improve cost accounting and inventory control practices.

• Lead or participate in finance-related projects, including system upgrades and ERP transitions.

Qualifications Required

• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration.

• CPA designation (active, inactive, or in-progress).

• Minimum 3–5 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably within a manufacturing or industrial setting.

• Strong technical skills in Microsoft Excel and proficiency with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar).

• Demonstrated knowledge of GAAP and internal control frameworks.

Preferred

• Experience with SAP Business One or similar mid-market ERP platforms.

• Prior involvement in system migrations or accounting integrations.

• Supervisory or team lead experience.

Key Competencies

• High attention to detail with a proactive and solutions-oriented mindset.

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders.

• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple deliverables under tight deadlines.

• Sound judgment and professional integrity when handling confidential information.

• Familiarity with standard costing, inventory management, and manufacturing workflows is a strong asset.