Assistant Controller

About MP Biomedicals: MP Biomedicals is a global life science company with headquarters in California and regional offices across the globe. The company offers a diverse portfolio of life science products, fine chemicals, and diagnostics used in industries ranging from basic research to clinical diagnostics and pharmaceuticals. Over the past 50 years, we have provided quality tools and expert services to assist our customers in making breakthrough discoveries and achieving scientific excellence.Company Misson Statement:Our mission is to empower global research that unlocks life-changing solutions and inspires a meaningful life.Company Values:RespectMeaningful WorkCareer DevelopmentAccountabilityHonestyMP Biomedicals Benefits:Bonus PayMonthly Childcare CreditFree breakfast on MondaysFree Catered Lunches Tuesday-FridayPaid VacationPaid PTO Hours10 Paid Company Holidays per Year401k with Company MatchCompetitive Healthcare BenefitsHSACompany Paid Life Insurance and Short-term DisabilityLearning and Development ProgramEmployee Referral ProgramEmployee Assistance ProgramEmployee DiscountsAnd so much more!Position SummaryWe are seeking an experienced Assistant Controller to support the financial operations of a growing manufacturing organization. This role will be responsible for the month-end close activities, cost accounting, inventory management, financial reporting, and internal controls while partnering closely with operations to drive efficiency and profitability.Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Reporting & General AccountingAssist in managing the monthly, quarterly, and annual close process.Ensure accurate and timely preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP.Review journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedulesSupport external audits, tax filings, and regulatory reporting requirements.Analyze financial results and explain variances from budget, forecast, and prior periods.Maintain accounting policies and procedures documentation.Manufacturing Cost AccountingResponsible for product costing, standard costing, and inventory valuation processes.Analyze manufacturing variances, including:Labor variancesMaterial usage variancesPurchase price variancesProduction efficiency variancesOverhead absorption variancesMonitor standard cost updates and annual cost roll processes.Partner with operations to improve inventory accuracy and cost visibility.Support margin analysis by product line, customer, and manufacturing facility.Inventory Management & ControlsEnsure inventory is accurately accounted for and valued.Manage cycle count programs and physical inventory observations.Investigate inventory discrepancies and recommend corrective actions.Maintain controls over raw materials, work-in-process (WIP), and finished goods.Monitor excess, slow-moving, and obsolete inventory reserves.Internal Controls & ComplianceMaintain and enhance internal control procedures.Support SOX compliance activities (if applicable).Ensure adherence to company policies and accounting standards.Assist in risk assessments and implementation of control improvements.Participate in ERP and process improvement initiatives.Budgeting, Forecasting & AnalysisAssist with annual budgeting and periodic forecasting processes.Develop financial models to support strategic initiatives.Analyze manufacturing KPIs and operational performance.Support capital expenditure planning and tracking.Provide ad hoc financial analysis for management.Other tasks as assigned.QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Accounting or FinanceCPA Encouraged5+ years of accounting experience, including 3+ years in a manufacturing environment.Experience in Financial Planning & Analysis and BudgetingAdvanced knowledge of ExcelStrong communication and analytical skills. Ability to communicate effectively with employees of all levelsCompetenciesStrong analytical and problem-solving skills.High attention to detail and accuracy.Leadership and team development capabilities.Ability to communicate effectively with both finance and operations personnel.Process improvement mindset.Strong organizational and project management skills.Ability to work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.