The Controller oversees all financial and accounting activities for the sawmill operation, ensuring accurate reporting, compliance, and cost control. This role partners closely with operations leadership to monitor production costs, analyze variances, support budgeting and forecasting, and safeguard company assets. The Controller serves as the financial steward for the site and a key member of the leadership team driving performance, profitability, and compliance with corporate and local standards.
Financial Management & Reporting
•Manage day-to-day accounting functions, including general ledger, accounts payable, payroll reconciliation, and fixed assets.
•Prepare accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with GAAP and corporate reporting requirements.
•Maintain cost accounting systems for lumber production, log procurement, and by-product sales.
•Reconcile inventory, monitor production variances, and ensure accurate valuation of raw materials, WIP, and finished goods.
•Review and validate daily production, yield, and downtime data for financial impact.
•Ensure compliance with internal controls, company policies, and audit requirements.
Budgeting, Forecasting & Analysis
•Lead the annual operating budget process and monthly forecast updates.
•Analyze actual results versus budget and identify key cost drivers or performance gaps.
•Provide financial insight to support decisions on pricing, production efficiency, and capital investment.
•Develop and maintain standard cost models and dashboards for leadership review.
Operations & Leadership Partnership
•Partner with the General Manager, Maintenance Superintendent, and Production leadership to improve cost control, throughput, and yield.
•Participate in daily or weekly production meetings to align financial data with operational performance.
•Train and support department managers in understanding and managing budgets.
•Serve as the site contact for corporate finance, HR, and auditors.
Compliance & Controls
•Ensure all accounting practices comply with GAAP, corporate policy, and Louisiana regulations.
•Monitor payroll and labor allocations for accuracy and adherence to labor law.
•Support environmental, safety, and ESG reporting through accurate tracking of related costs and spending.
•Maintain documentation and readiness for internal and external audits.
Skills, Knowledge and Abilities Required:
·Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related field required; CPA or CMA preferred.
·5+ years of progressive accounting experience; manufacturing or sawmill experience strongly preferred.
·Strong understanding of cost accounting, inventory management, and financial analysis.
·Advanced proficiency in Excel and ERP systems (e.g., UKG, Sage, SAP, or similar).
·Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
·Ability to thrive in a hands-on, fast-paced production environment.
Working Conditions/Physical Requirements:
·This position is primarily performed in an office environment located on-site at the sawmill; however, regular interaction with production, maintenance, and yard operations is required.
·The Controller must be comfortable entering production areas to review inventory, observe processes, or collaborate with supervisors.
·Exposure to typical sawmill conditions may occur, including fluctuating temperatures, loud noise levels, wood dust, and heavy equipment movement.
Work hours are generally standard business hours, but occasional extended hours or weekend work may be required to meet reporting deadlines or support month-end close.
·The role requires frequent sitting, occasional standing and walking, and periodic movement through uneven terrain in production areas.
·Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally (e.g., moving files, samples, or equipment for inventory audits).
·Use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, and high-visibility vests, is required when entering designated production zones.
·Frequent use of a computer, keyboard, calculator, and other standard office equipment is required.
Teal Jones is an Equal Opportunity Employer: M/F/Vets/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity