Senior Cost Accountant

THE ROLE

This is a high-ownership position for a technically strong cost accountant who is equally comfortable building a variance analysis and presenting findings to leadership. You will own the cost function end-to-end: standard costing, inventory valuation, and production cost analysis, serving as a genuine partner to the Controller and senior team, not just a processor of numbers. This role sits at the intersection of finance and operations, so you will need to think critically about cost drivers, communicate clearly across functions, and bring rigor to every number you put in front of a stakeholder.

WHAT YOU’LL OWN

• Maintain a fully accurate perpetual inventory and standard cost system; prepare and update annual cost standards including labor, machine hours, and manufacturing overhead
• Lead month-end and year-end close activities including journal entries, inventory valuation, financial reporting, and monthly commodity price updates
• Perform inventory cycle counts and manage scrap accounting; coordinate with manufacturing, process engineering, and outside vendors
• Build and maintain overhead cost pools for budgeting, standards, and variance analysis
• Prepare new part number cost roll-ups as required
• Partner cross-functionally with operations and engineering to ensure accurate sales, inventory, receivables, and payables cutoff
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements; support ERP and financial reporting enhancements

WHAT YOU BRING

• Deep command of cost accounting principles and their application in a manufacturing environment
• Solid GAAP knowledge with the ability to apply it to complex production cost scenarios
• Sharp analytical instincts; you can move from raw data to clear, actionable insight quickly
• High attention to detail and a genuine commitment to data accuracy and completeness
• Confidence and clarity when engaging with senior stakeholders; you can defend your numbers and explain your methodology
• Experience with outside auditors and audit preparation
• Advanced Excel skills (VLOOKUP, pivot tables); proficiency in Axis ERP and Microsoft Office Suite

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance; MBA a plus
• 7+ years of experience in a manufacturing environment
• CPA preferred
• Proficiency in Axis ERP and Microsoft Office Suite, including advanced Excel