Cost Accountant

Charter Manufacturing is a fourth-generation family-owned business where our will to grow drives us to do it better. Join the team and become part of our family! This position may include access to controlled information or technology under U.S. export control laws. Employment may be contingent on either the applicant verifying U.S. Person status or the employer obtaining any necessary export license.

About the role

Serve as a subject matter expert in cost and inventory accounting. Lead month-end close activities, perform advanced cost and margin analysis, and partner cross-functionally to provide insights that drive operational efficiency and financial performance. This position is hybrid (3 days a week in office) in either Woodstock, IL or Shawano, WI with monthly travel to the opposite site.

Responsibilities

• Lead monthly cost accounting close, including cost roll-ups and reconciliations.
• Analyze manufacturing variances and prepare cost performance reports with actionable insights.
• Support standard cost setting and periodic updates.
• Partner with Operations, Supply Chain, and Finance to interpret cost results and identify improvement opportunities.
• Provide financial input for capital investments, production efficiency, and pricing decisions.
• Maintain strong internal controls around cost and inventory accounting.
• Lead initiatives to automate and improve cost reporting and data accuracy.
• Provide support for other accounting functions when needed.
• Support and guide junior accountants, sharing technical expertise and best practices.
• Follow Environmental, Quality and Safety Management System procedures and requirements.
• Ability to meet the essential job requirements, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 4–6 years of cost accounting or manufacturing finance experience.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in ERP systems and Excel.
• Understanding of US GAAP, inventory valuation, and cost allocation.

Preferred Qualifications

• CPA, CMA, or MBA.
• 6–8 years of experience in cost accounting and manufacturing environments.
• Experience leading close processes or improvement initiatives.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits.
• 401(k) plan with employer matching and profit sharing.
• Company-paid life insurance and disability coverage.
• Paid time off (PTO).