Cost Accountant

James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fiber cement, fiber gypsum, composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie®, TimberTech®, AZEK® Exteriors, Versatex®, fermacell®, and StruXure®. With over 8,000 employees globally, we operate 31 sites, 6 recycling facilities, and 6 research and development centers. We’re united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All™ through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities.

Responsibilities

• Develop, own, and manage the site standard costing system, including material, labor, and overhead, bill of materials (BOMs), production routings updates, and annual standard cost roll.
• Provide analysis of manufacturing performance and spending trends; partner with operations teams on corrective actions or cost savings opportunities.
• Prepare month-end close activities: adjusting journal entries, accruals, closing production work orders, and balance sheet reconciliations.
• Complete monthly cost analysis of controllable expense accounts and material cost variance accounts.
• Manage daily production work order process, manufacturing accounting on work orders, and reconcile manufacturing cost variances for the plant.
• Participate in daily/weekly plant meetings to explain analysis results and identify solutions.
• Drive accounting processes to ensure accurate books, records, and compliance with key control audit requirements.
• Support and document monthly SOX controls, interim SOX testing, and audits from internal and external auditors.
• Create standard work processes for site finance, ensuring internal controls and efficiency.
• Oversee accurate inventory control through cycle count and physical inventory processes, including root cause analysis and corrective action.
• Manage site fixed assets processes: monthly reconciliations, asset additions and disposals, and monthly/annual fixed asset counts/audits.
• Collaborate with operations and shared AP services to research and resolve purchasing and invoice issues.
• Perform additional duties as needed and/or assigned by supervisor/management.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance preferred.
• 2-5 years of experience in a similar accounting or finance position/role.
• Manufacturing experience preferred.
• Technical system competence with JD Edwards and advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel.
• Knowledge of finance and accounting principles, including GAAP.
• Demonstrated understanding of (or ability to learn) standard and cost accounting methods.
• Strong analytical ability to synthesize detailed data into meaningful insights.
• Ability to develop and present solid, data-supported solutions.
• Proven problem-solving ability with sound judgment.
• Knowledge of research methods and report preparation, or willingness to learn.
• Results-oriented mindset with a commitment to accuracy, completeness, and timeliness.
• Strong interpersonal and written/oral communication skills, including the ability to explain financial concepts across the business.
• Ability to challenge information, validate assumptions, and seek robust data to improve decision quality.
• Desire and tenacity to grow within the organization.

Pay

A good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $69,000 to $80,000. Placement in the range depends on experience, skills, geography, and internal equity.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and bonus eligibility.
• Health coverage: medical, dental, vision, life insurance.
• Paid time off: vacation and company holidays.
• Retirement: 401(k) with company match.
• Work-life balance: parental leave, wellness programs.
• Sustainability initiatives and community impact programs.