Assistant Controller

We are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Assistant Controller to join our team. This vital role offers an exciting opportunity to oversee financial operations, ensure compliance with accounting standards, and support strategic financial planning. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical accounting skills, a passion for accuracy, and a proactive approach to financial management within a cooperative agricultural environment.

The Assistant Controller is a full-time, on-site position located in Peshastin, WA.

Reports to: Director of Corporate Accounting

Department: G&A

Classification: Full-time, Exempt

Location: Peshastin, WA (Corporate Office) on-site position

Date: April 2026

Company Description

Blue Bird, Inc. was established in 1913 and is now the largest vertically integrated tree fruit cooperative in the Pacific Northwest. Blue Bird, Inc. produces fresh apples, pears, and cherries, serving customers in all 50 states and over 40 countries worldwide. Blue Bird, Inc. is privately owned by its 240 grower members and employs over 2,500 employees annually.

Position Summary

The Assistant Controller supports the Director of Corporate Accounting in managing the financial close, reporting, and compliance functions for a vertically integrated tree fruit organization. This role performs advanced general ledger, month-end close, and financial reporting responsibilities, while assisting with year-end close, external audits, and internal control activities. Operating within a multi-location agricultural environment, the Assistant Controller helps ensure accurate accounting for inventory, production costs, and financials. The Assistant Controller serves as a key contributor to process improvement, audit readiness, and the overall integrity of the company’s financial records.

Examples of Job Duties

Financial Close & General Ledger

• Participate in and assist with monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close activities.
• Prepare, review, and analyze journal entries, account reconciliations, accruals, and supporting schedules.
• Ensure accurate, timely, and complete month-end close activities in accordance with established timelines.
• Assist in reviewing general ledger activity and investigating variances.
• Support the Director with coordination of close workflows and deliverables across the accounting team.

Financial Reporting

• Assist with preparation and review of monthly financial statements and internal management reports.
• Support preparation of board-level financial reporting and supporting analysis.
• Assist with financial analysis, trend analysis, and variance explanations for leadership.
• Ensure financial reporting complies with GAAP and company accounting policies.

Audit & Compliance

• Assist with year-end close and preparation of audit schedules and supporting documentation.
• Coordinate with external auditors by responding to audit requests and ensuring timely delivery of information.
• Support maintenance and documentation of internal controls and accounting procedures.
• Assist with implementation of accounting standard updates and policy changes, as directed.

Treasury & Operational Support

• Assist with review of monthly and year-end bank reconciliations.
• Support treasury activities, including review of daily banking transactions, as assigned.
• Cross-train with other accounting functions to provide coverage and support as needed.

Other Responsibilities

• Serve as a technical accounting resource for staff accountants as needed.
• Assist with budgeting and forecast preparation, as directed.
• Support ad-hoc financial analyses, system improvements, and special projects.
• Perform other duties as assigned to ensure timely and accurate financial reporting.

Education and Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting required.
• Minimum of 5+ years of progressive accounting experience required.
• Strong general ledger and financial reporting experience required.
• Audit experience required (public accounting or internal audit support experience acceptable).
• Accrual accounting experience required.
• CPA or CPA-eligible strongly preferred.

Core Competencies & Skills

• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting requirements.
• High attention to detail with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills with the ability to meet close deadlines.
• Proficiency with ERP/accounting systems and Microsoft Excel (advanced Excel skills required).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a team.
• Demonstrated professionalism and ability to manage confidential information.

Physical Requirements

This position requires extensive communication, computer proficiency, analysis of information provided via various sources, and use of specialized equipment. Accordingly, it is felt that the responsibilities of this position may not be compatible with persons with significant difficulties in vision, hearing, or speech.

The statements contained herein reflect general details as necessary to describe the principal functions for this job, the level of knowledge and skill typically required, and the scope of responsibility. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned to meet the organization’s needs.

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) 4% Match
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid sick time
• Paid time off vacation / Holiday
• Vision insurance
• Work Location: In person, Peshastin WA