Junior Financial AnalystLocation: Chicagoland Area, Must be Located near the Chicagoland Area (Onsite with Hybrid Flexibility AFTER 90 Days) Employment Type: Full-Time Industry: Performance Coatings, Architectural Paints, OEM Coatings, Powder Coatings Ownership Structure: Private Equity Sponsored Company Revenue: Approximately $70 MillionPosition OverviewWe are seeking a motivated and analytical Junior Financial Analyst to support financial planning, reporting, and operational analysis across a growing performance coatings platform. This role offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in manufacturing finance, business operations, and private equity-backed environments while working closely with senior leadership and the business controllers.The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a desire to learn financial modeling, budgeting, forecasting, and business performance analysis within an industrial manufacturing setting. This position will support key decision-making processes by providing accurate financial insights and reporting.Key ResponsibilitiesAssist with monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting processes.Support budgeting, forecasting, and long-range planning activities.Analyze financial results and identify significant variances from budget and forecast.Prepare financial dashboards, KPI reports, and management presentations.Monitor revenue, costs, gross margins, and profitability trends across product lines.Assist with inventory, working capital, and cash flow analysis.Support manufacturing and operational teams with financial performance reporting.Conduct ad hoc financial analyses to support strategic and operational decision-making.Maintain and improve financial models used for forecasting and business planning.Assist with data collection and reporting for lenders, investors, and management teams.Support pricing, margin, and cost analysis initiatives.Participate in special projects, including acquisition analysis and integration support as needed.QualificationsBachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business, or a related field.0-3 years of experience in financial analysis, accounting, corporate finance, or related roles.Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and financial modeling.Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.Strong attention to detail and accuracy.Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.Strong written and verbal communication skills.Preferred QualificationsInternship or experience within manufacturing, industrial products, chemicals, coatings, or related industries.Experience with ERP systems and financial reporting tools.Knowledge of budgeting, forecasting, and financial statement analysis.Familiarity with Power BI, Tableau, or other business intelligence platforms.Progress toward CPA, CMA, CFA, or MBA credentials is a plus.Critical Success FactorsStrong analytical and quantitative aptitude.Curiosity and willingness to learn complex business operations.Ability to translate data into actionable insights.High level of professionalism and accountability.Collaborative mindset and ability to work cross-functionally.Strong Excel and financial reporting capabilities.Initial Priorities (First 90 Days)Learn company operations, products, and key financial drivers.Support monthly reporting and variance analysis processes.Assist in maintaining budgeting and forecasting models.Develop familiarity with manufacturing cost structures and KPIs.Build relationships with finance, operations, and commercial teams.Contribute to profitability, inventory, and working capital analyses.Improve reporting efficiency through data organization and process enhancements.Why Join Us?This role offers exceptional exposure to senior leadership, private equity ownership, and the financial operations of a leading manufacturing business. The successful candidate will gain valuable experience in financial planning and analysis, operational finance, and strategic business decision-making while building a strong foundation for future career growth within finance and corporate leadership.