Blue Bird (NASDAQ: BLBD) is recognized as a technology leader and innovator of school buses since its founding in 1927. Our dedicated team members design, engineer and manufacture school buses with a singular focus on safety, reliability, and durability. School buses carry the most precious cargo in the world – 25 million children twice a day – making them the most trusted mode of student transportation. The company is the proven leader in low- and zero-emission school buses with more than 20,000 propane, natural gas, and electric powered buses in operation today. Blue Bird is transforming the student transportation industry through cleaner energy solutions. For more information on Blue Bird's complete product and service portfolio, visit www.blue-bird.com.  

JOB SUMMARY

Reporting to the Plant Controller, this role is responsible for supporting the manufacturing operations as a finance business partner. Financial responsibilities at the plant include financial reporting; support during quarterly reviews/annual audit; Tracking and managing AFEs; Inventory review and reporting; plant financial analysis including labor, efficiency, capex & opex; monitoring internal controls; and general accounting support. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage plant finances by tracking budget vs actuals; monitoring plant-related expenditures and transactions (capex projects, opex, purchase requisitions, invoices, etc.); maintaining financial records; and ensuring financial compliance with organizational and federal guidelines
• Monitor and implement plant internal controls (in conjunction with corporate policies) as necessary to ensure reporting integrity, safeguard company assets, and identify risks
• Review/analysis of all manufacturing trends (including labor hours, efficiencies, expense, AFE projects, and other related activities)
• Assist with preparation of annual budget and monthly forecasts, review and produce weekly/monthly/annual productivity reports
• Provide cost accounting support, as needed, including estimating product costs for new products and changes to existing products
• Prepare timely reports and presentations to finance and operations management highlighting key financial insights
• Organize and archive documents to support appropriate controls environment
• Support company/departmental goals that are established annually
• Support internal and external audits and Ad Hoc projects and analysis, as needed

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Experience with plant/manufacturing finance; inventory controls; capex/opex tracking; cost accounting
• Knowledge of GAAP accounting and accounting systems
• Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and present complex data to a wide variety of stakeholders
• Ability to reconcile large data sets and intermediate to advanced level skills in MS Excel and MS PowerPoint. Knowledge of Power BI  reporting tools is a plus
• Demonstrate strong determination and resolve, with the ability to assert themselves and provide constructive feedback when necessary
• Ability to prioritize and perform in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
• Must be organized and detail-oriented
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to thrive in a team-based environment
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal customers

EDUCATION AND EXPEREINCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance required (MBA or CPA considered a plus)
• 5 years of experience in Accounting or Finance w/ 3 years’ experience in the manufacturing industry

WE VALUE

• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends when required for events.
• Ability to anticipate and understand customer needs and provide guidance;
• Strong project management skills. Exposure to difficult or complex projects a plus;
• Effective communication and ability to communicate complex details in a clear manner;
• Working in a collaborative team and balancing the needs of individual stakeholders while delivering corporate objectives.

*The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all-inclusive.  They represent typical elements and criteria necessary to successfully perform the job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions

Blue Bird’s winning culture is fueled by our ability to respect, encourage, celebrate and embrace the unique perspectives of all of our employees.  We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer who is committed to providing all of our employees with a work environment free of discrimination or harassment.  We base our employment decisions on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, national, social or ethnic origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, past or present military service, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.  

Candidates for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States and will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility at the time of hire.