Operational Finance Analyst

At Outform Group, our guiding philosophy is Dare To Innovate.

Outform Group specializes in creating tangible consumer engagements that elevate, connect and humanize brand experiences. We unite leading experts in research, strategy, design, innovation and manufacturing, who work together to create unforgettable brand experiences.

Lean, interdisciplinary teams work in close collaboration with clients, helping them to solve their user’s biggest problems. Our user-centric, data-driven approach focuses on creating a seamless experience across different environments.

Job Title: Operational Finance Analyst

Location: Chicago, IL or UNC, CA (On-site or Hybrid)

Role Overview

The newly created Operational Finance Analyst position will provide day-to-day support to the Business Partner - Operational Finance Manager in tracking, analyzing, and reporting project costs and profitability for our bespoke, project-based manufacturing operations. This entry-level role is ideal for an early-career finance professional or recent graduate who wants to build hands-on experience in cost accounting, project financial management, and cross-functional business partnering.

Key Responsibilities

Project Cost Tracking & Data Management

• Assist with gathering, verifying, and inputting project cost data, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Support the tracking of direct labor, material, and subcontractor costs for active projects.
• Maintain organized records of project-related purchase orders, invoices, and cost allocations.
  
  

Financial Reporting & Analysis

• Help prepare periodic project profitability reports, indirect operational cost analysis and income statements under the guidance of the Business Partner - Operational Finance Manager.
• Perform basic variance checks, flag unusual trends, and provide initial commentary for review.
• Contribute to estimate-to-actual reconciliations at key project milestones.
• Budget and forecasting support as needed
  
  

Operational Support

• Collaborate with procurement and production teams to monitor material deliveries and cost commitments.
• Support the preparation of percent complete calculations and revenue recognition data.
• Assist in preparing inputs for project reviews and meetings with operational stakeholders.
  
  

Process Improvement & Learning

• Participate in ad hoc cost analysis and research as requested.
• Support the documentation and streamlining of costing and reporting processes.
• Develop foundational knowledge of project accounting best practices and ERP tools.
  
  

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field (or working toward completion).
• Internship or up to 2 years of experience in an accounting, cost analysis, or finance support role (experience in a project-based manufacturing or engineering environment is a plus).
• Familiarity with basic accounting principles and an interest in project costing.
  
  

Skills & Competencies

• Technical Skills: Proficient in Excel; experience with D365 or accounting systems is a plus.
• Analytical Ability: Strong attention to detail and accuracy in working with financial data.
• Communication: Clear verbal and written communication skills; able to present information in a business-friendly way.
• Proactive Approach: Willingness to ask questions, learn from feedback, and take initiative.
• Team Collaboration: Cooperative and supportive; able to build effective working relationships with colleagues across departments.