Project Controller
Smp Automotive Systems Alabama Inc • Cottondale, Alabama • Full Time
Posted on Fri, Jun 26, 2026
Project Controller
Join the SMP Team!
At SMP Automotive Systems Alabama Inc., we are a leading Tier 1 automotive supplier dedicated to delivering high-quality interior and exterior vehicle components to some of the world's largest automotive manufacturers. We believe our success is driven by our people, and we are committed to fostering a culture of teamwork, innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
We are currently seeking a Project Controller to support the financial success of our programs from quotation through production. This role serves as a key financial partner to Sales, Engineering, Purchasing, Operations, and Leadership teams, ensuring accurate financial planning, cost control, profitability analysis, and program performance throughout the entire product lifecycle.
What You'll Do
Program Financial Management
- Lead financial oversight of assigned programs from RFQ through end-of-production.
- Develop and maintain project budgets, forecasts, and profitability analyses.
- Monitor customer investments, capital expenditures, launch costs, and operating expenses.
- Support business case development and investment approvals.
- Track program financial performance and identify risks and opportunities.
Quotation & Launch Support
- Partner with Sales, Engineering, Purchasing, Quality, and Operations during the quoting process.
- Analyze project assumptions, cost structures, and financial models.
- Support the development of customer quotations and profitability evaluations.
- Participate in project kick-off meetings and launch reviews.
- Assist with program investment planning and financial approvals.
Cost Analysis & Reporting
- Perform detailed cost, margin, and variance analyses.
- Monitor project profitability throughout the product lifecycle.
- Support monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting activities.
- Prepare financial presentations and reports for plant and regional leadership.
- Analyze actual performance against budgets and forecasts.
Business Partnership
- Serve as a financial resource for cross-functional project teams.
- Support sourcing decisions through financial analysis and supplier comparisons.
- Assist with customer pricing reviews and change management activities.
- Monitor intercompany transactions and financial impacts.
- Support long-range planning, budgeting, and strategic initiatives.
Continuous Improvement
- Identify opportunities to improve profitability and financial performance.
- Drive process improvements within project controlling and reporting activities.
- Support regional facilities and special projects as needed.
- Promote a culture of accountability, accuracy, and continuous improvement.
What We're Looking For
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field required.
Experience
- 3+ years of experience in Finance, Controlling, Cost Accounting, or Project Controlling.
- Manufacturing experience required; automotive industry experience preferred.
- Experience supporting product launches, capital investments, or project management activities preferred.
- Experience working within a Tier 1 automotive supplier environment is a plus.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong financial analysis and cost accounting skills.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
- Experience with SAP or other ERP systems.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
Why SMP Alabama?
We recognize that our team members are our greatest asset. That's why we offer a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:
Benefits
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 401(k) with Company Match
- Company-Paid Life Insurance
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- 11 Paid Holidays
- 120 Hours of PTO Annually
- Career Growth and Development Opportunities
- Global Advancement Opportunities within the Motherson Group
Apply Today!
If you are a highly analytical finance professional who enjoys partnering with cross-functional teams to drive business results, we encourage you to apply and become part of the SMP Alabama team.
SMP Automotive Systems Alabama Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status under applicable law.