Cost Accountant

Cost Accountant The Cost Accountant will be responsible for analyzing and reporting on costs related to inventory, manufacturing, and operational performance within a growing organization. This individual will oversee product costing, inventory valuation, variance analysis, and financial reporting while partnering closely with Finance, Operations, and Supply Chain to improve cost controls and profitability. The ideal candidate brings strong cost accounting experience, analytical capabilities, and the ability to translate financial data into actionable insights that support operational and business decisions. Candidates will have the opportunity to work in a hybrid environment Responsibilities Cost Accounting & Inventory Management Maintain, review, and analyze standard costs for products, raw materials, direct labor, and manufacturing overhead. Manage inventory accounting processes, including account reconciliations, cycle counts, physical inventory reviews, and inventory reserve assessments. Analyze manufacturing cost variances and operational expenses to identify underlying cost drivers, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement. Monitor inventory movements and transactions to ensure accurate inventory valuation and reliable financial reporting. Review bills of materials (BOMs), production routings, and related manufacturing data to maintain accurate product costing. Evaluate inventory balances, costing methods, and related accounting records to ensure consistency and accuracy. Financial Reporting & Month-End Close Assist with monthly, quarterly, and year-end closing activities, including journal entries, general ledger reconciliations, and financial reporting. Prepare detailed cost analyses, gross margin reports, and product profitability assessments to support management decisions. Analyze product margins, pricing structures, and operational results to identify performance trends and potential cost-reduction initiatives. Support budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes related to manufacturing expenses, inventory, and operational costs. Ensure cost accounting records and inventory-related financial information are accurate, complete, and prepared in accordance with applicable accounting standards. Cross-Functional Collaboration & Process Improvement Work closely with Operations, Purchasing, and Supply Chain teams to improve cost visibility, strengthen financial controls, and enhance operational efficiency. Provide financial insights and cost analyses to support production planning, purchasing decisions, and business performance improvements. Assist with internal and external audits by preparing supporting documentation and ensuring compliance with U.S. GAAP, company accounting policies, and internal control requirements. Identify opportunities to streamline cost accounting procedures, improve reporting accuracy, and enhance financial systems. Conduct ad hoc financial analyses and prepare reports to support operational initiatives, management requests, and business decision-making. Qualifications & Experience Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline is required. Three to five years of accounting experience, preferably in a manufacturing, distribution, or industrial business environment. Strong understanding of cost accounting practices, standard costing methodologies, inventory valuation, and manufacturing variance analysis. Previous experience with inventory accounting, account reconciliations, and financial reporting processes. Hands-on experience with ERP systems and inventory management procedures. Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including pivot tables, lookup functions, and financial data analysis. CPA or CMA certification, or active progress toward obtaining either designation, is preferred. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, combined with excellent attention to detail and accuracy. Ability to collaborate effectively with Finance, Operations, Purchasing, and Supply Chain teams. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain financial results and cost-related information to non-financial stakeholders. Strong organizational skills and the ability to balance competing priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.