Cost Accounting Manager

Responsibilities

• Leads all cost-related activities for month-end close, including preparation of journal entries, reconciliations, cost and margin reporting, and variance analysis
• Maintains and updates standard cost systems; analyzes material, labor, and overhead variances to support operational and financial decisions; enhances and implements system improvements as needed
• Prepares and manages cost and inventory estimates (e.g., LIFO reserve, E&O reserve, overhead application reserve, inventory-in-transit) and oversees operational reporting for cycle count accuracy, labor efficiency, productivity, and scrap
• Drives profitability improvement through cost analysis, spending reviews, and margin enhancement initiatives; influences pricing decisions and supports new product cost analysis
• Led initiatives to mitigate E&O exposure, improve inventory accuracy, enhance costing systems, optimize overhead methodologies and track cost savings
• Provides financial expertise for evaluating ROI on business projects, documenting cost impacts, risks, and benefits to support capital investments and strategic initiatives

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience with cost accounting within manufacturing or distribution environments
• 3+ years of supervisory or management experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance or related field
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) preferred
• Ability to assess disparate processes across facilities, identify best practices, and project manage the implementation of consistent procedures across plants
• Strong business acumen with ability to build effective relationships with operations, supply chain, and commercial teams to influence cost and pricing decisions
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to convey complex cost data into actionable insights clearly and effectively to all levels of the organization
• Advanced proficiency in Excel, ERP platforms and reporting systems
• Commitment to continuous development, including personal growth and supporting the development of team members
• Uses influence effectively to challenge assumptions, encourage broader thinking, and drive thoughtful decision making within the business