Finance Business Partner - Engineering

The Finance Business Partner – Engineering is a critical leadership role responsible for driving financial clarity and operational excellence across the Engineering Business Unit. This position ensures the accurate and timely reporting of individual project and BU-level financials, with a strong focus on: Timely and accurate billing of materials and labor Supporting Project Managers in building reliable and forward-looking estimates to complete (ETCs) As a strategic partner to both the Business Unit Leader and the Corporate Controller, this role shares ownership of the financial health and successful execution of engineering projects from initiation to completion. The ideal candidate will bring a high level of financial insight, business partnership, and the ability to coach teams through standardized, scalable processes that span the full lifecycle of complex product development efforts. This is more than a finance role—it’s a collaborative leadership opportunity for someone who thrives on influencing cross-functional teams, optimizing project performance, and making a measurable impact on business outcomes. Duties and Responsibilities Partner with Project Managers and Engineering to ensure all system documentation accurately reflects Customer Purchase Orders and Project Scoping Agreements. Drive the monthly generation of timely and accurate Estimate to Complete (ETC) forecasts, collaborating directly with PMs to refine project financial outlooks and inform necessary business adjustments. Validate resource planning data in enterprise systems to maintain a reliable and up-to-date revenue backlog, grounded in current ETC figures. Support proactive financial planning by working with PMs to develop action plans for projects requiring overtime or scope changes—ensuring updated customer approvals and preserving gross margin. Monitor weekly time entry for alignment with project P&L data; identify and resolve discrepancies in labor reporting across systems. Coordinate and support the cadence of client-facing updates and presentations regarding scope or budget changes, ensuring financial clarity and client alignment. Collaborate with Finance and Accounting to ensure customer invoices are issued accurately and timely, and that billing aligns with project P&L and ledger entries. Prepare and review monthly financial consolidation reports for the business unit, ensuring alignment with the general ledger. Continuously audit project financials—including revenues, costs, and invoicing by phase—and partner with cross-functional stakeholders to address any inconsistencies. Requirements 7 to 10 years of pertinent professional experience A Bachelor's degree in finance or business administration is required; an MBA or CFA is preferred Robust financial knowledge with a thorough comprehension of budgeting, forecasting, and profit and loss elements Proficient in Power BI and API integrations to enhance data analysis and validation processes. Advanced skills in Excel and in the full range of Microsoft products. Experience in project-oriented settings, preferably in the manufacturing industry, with a solid understanding of standard costs and revenue drivers. Proven ability to manage multiple time-sensitive projects and effectively prioritize competing demands. Knowledge of continuous improvement methodologies and their practical implementation. Ability to lead and manage projects through influence and collaboration across all levels of the organization. High emotional intelligence accompanied by excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation abilities. A proactive attitude toward addressing process deficiencies as needed and providing relevant training to close future gaps. Benefits Performance based bonus Employer-subsidized health insurance Employer-paid dental insurance Employer HSA contribution 401(k) with company match Nine paid holidays (including your birthday!) + PTO and personal days Gym membership subsidy Employer-paid Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance   The expected salary range for this position is between $100,000 - $140,000 based upon candidates' skills, experience, and qualifications.   Nextern is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences, and we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.