Job Description:
Job Summary
The Cost Account Analyst is responsible for ensuring the accuracy of product costing and providing financial insights to support manufacturing operations and management decision-making. This role focuses on cost analysis, variance reporting, budgeting support, inventory management, and financial forecasting within a manufacturing environment. The position works closely with plant leadership to improve cost visibility, financial controls, and operational efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
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Ensure accuracy of product costs, including Bills of Materials (BOMs), routings, labor rates, and overhead
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Analyze variances to standard cost, including purchase price, material usage, labor rate, and labor efficiency, and report findings to management
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Support management with financial analysis for manufacturing investment decisions, including equipment and process comparisons
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Maintain the standard cost system to generate accurate product costs and inventory valuations
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Review cost changes, identify root causes, and obtain appropriate authorization for updates
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Design and develop manufacturing and plant-level financial reports
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Analyze financial and operational data and provide actionable recommendations to management
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Participate in and lead regular cost and performance review meetings with plant leadership
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Establish and maintain financial controls to safeguard plant assets and ensure accurate financial reporting
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Assist with the development of budgets, manufacturing standards, and financial forecasts
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Review and develop budgeting requirements for manufacturing operations
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Conduct profitability analysis and review results with key stakeholders
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Perform financial analysis and support strategic and process improvement initiatives with minimal supervision
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Develop and maintain variable cost productivity tracking and analysis
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Participate in annual physical inventory processes
Minimum Qualifications
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Bachelors degree in Finance, Accounting, Engineering, or a related field
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3–5 years of relevant work experience
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Experience in a manufacturing or factory environment
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Strong background in financial analysis, forecasting, and financial reporting
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Experience with inventory management and cost accounting
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Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
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Ability to work collaboratively as a team player
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Ability to quickly learn and navigate complex ERP systems (Oracle experience preferred)
Physical Demands
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Minimal standing, walking, climbing stairs, and filing activities
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Prolonged use of computer systems, including keyboard and mouse
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Extended periods of sitting, reading, writing, speaking, and hearing
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Occasional travel for training purposes
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Exposure to typical manufacturing noise environments with appropriate safety equipment