Controller

Company: TriMas Aerospace International

Primary Location: Erlenstraße 15, Buhl D-77815 DEU

Workplace Type: On-site

Employment Type: Salaried | Full-Time

Function: Finance

Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Women/Veterans/Disabled

Main Duties & Responsibilities

Summary:
PennAero is hiring a Controller at our TAG company in Buhl, Germany. TAG develops integrated rod systems and rubber-metal isolation technologies that support structural stability, dynamic control, and long-term durability in modern aircraft.

About PennAero:
PennAero is a leading manufacturer of highly engineered fasteners and specialized components for critical aerospace, defense, space, and advanced energy applications. We partner with customers to solve their most complex challenges, bringing technical depth and disciplined, agile execution when it matters most. Experience guides our growth—strengthening capabilities and expanding our global platform as markets evolve. To learn more about PennAero's capabilities and commitment to aerospace excellence, visit https://pennaero.com

Job Description:

This role requires a hands-on Controller who owns the close, forecasting, and core accounting processes and is willing to execute AP, AR, and GL activities directly when needed.

Accounting Operations & Close Execution
Own the day-to-day accounting function, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and fixed assets
Personally ensure timely and accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual closes, including journal entries, reconciliations, and accruals
Review and prepare balance sheet reconciliations and resolve discrepancies proactively
Produce financial statements with clear explanations of material fluctuations and issues

Hands‑On AP, AR & Transaction Processing
Provide coverage during peak periods, close cycles, or resource gaps
Directly record, review, and post AP and AR transactions as needed, including invoices, cash receipts, credit memos, and adjustments
Ensure proper invoice coding, approvals, and cutoff procedures
Maintain accuracy and discipline in transactional accounting while preserving internal controls

Budgeting, Forecasting & Financial Tracking
Build and maintain a monthly rolling forecast of the full P&L, updated based on actual results and current operating trends
Prepare monthly Net Working Capital forecasts, actively tracking AR, AP, inventory, and accrued liabilities
Develop monthly Free Cash Flow forecasts, tying together earnings, working capital movement, and capital expenditures
Perform variance analysis versus budget and prior forecast and clearly communicate drivers to management

Cash Flow & Working Capital Oversight
Track weekly and monthly cash activity and working capital trends
Monitor collections, payment timing, and accrual accuracy to support liquidity visibility
Flag potential cash constraints, timing issues, or working capital risks early

Internal Controls & Compliance
Maintain practical internal controls appropriate for a lean organization
Ensure compliance with both US and German GAAP, tax requirements, and company accounting policies
Prepare audit schedules and directly support external auditors and tax advisors
Maintain clean documentation for key accounting policies and procedures

Finance Team Development & Organization Planning
Develop and mentor finance and accounting staff through hands-on coaching and clear expectations
Identify skill gaps and build bench strength to support business continuity and succession planning
Design effective team structure, roles, and responsibilities aligned with business needs
Promote cross-training to increase coverage, flexibility, and operational resilience
Drive ongoing talent development through feedback, performance management, and process ownership

Process Improvement & Systems
Identify and fix breakdowns in accounting, close, and forecasting processes
Simplify workflows to improve speed and accuracy without over‑engineering
Support accounting system improvements, cleanup, or optimizations as needed

Cross‑Functional & Management Support
Work closely with operations, sales, and leadership to gather inputs for forecasting and accruals
Provide straightforward financial analysis that supports real-world decision making
Serve as a reliable accounting and financial resource for day‑to‑day business questions

This role is required to be on-site 5 days a week at the Buhl, Germany location.

Qualifications

Required qualifications & experience:
Bachelor's degree or equivalent in accounting, business, or a related field.
Team leading/supervisory experience.
7+ years in a manufacturing environment, with demonstrable cost accounting capability.
Advanced in Excel and PowerPoint, with knowledge of sequel/BI dashboard building.

Benefits

Benefit offerings include Medical Insurance and Prescription Drugs, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability Insurance (for eligible employees), Employee Assistance Plan (EAP), Paid Time Off (may include vacation and sick time), Retirement Program, and Other Voluntary Benefits.