Cost Accounting Manager

Reports to: Director of Finance                                                    

Department: Accounting

Classification: Exempt                                                                

Travel: 0%

JOB SUMMARY:

The Cost Accounting Manager is responsible for overseeing all cost accounting functions, including inventory valuation, standard costing, variance analysis, budgeting support, and operational cost analysis. This role partners cross-functionally with operations, engineering, supply chain, and finance leadership to improve profitability, strengthen inventory controls, and support strategic business decisions. The Cost Accounting Manager will also drive process improvements, ensure compliance with GAAP, and support continuous operational efficiencies.

JOB FUNCTIONS AND RESONSIBILITIES:

• Manage and maintain the standard cost system for materials, labor, and overhead; support forecasting and annual budgeting processes
• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to cost new products and maintain accurate Bills of Materials (BOMs)
• Coordinate and conduct physical and cycle counts of raw materials, work-in-progress (WIP), and finished goods inventory
• Develop and communicate financial and operational reports to management, including production, margin, and variance analysis
• Provide profitability analysis, identify cost drivers, and recommend cost-saving measures
• Partner with manufacturing, engineering, supply chain, and finance leadership to resolve cost issues and improve operational efficiencies
• Analyze production methods and changes in raw materials to determine their impact on costs and identify opportunities for improvement
• Ensure accounting practices comply with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), particularly in relation to financial statements and inventory valuation
• Demonstrate and embodies our values: Be Limitless, Be Resilient, Be People Centered, Be a Team, and Be Trustworthy

EDUCATION/ EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required; advanced degree preferred
• CPA and/or CMA certification preferred
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant accounting experience in a manufacturing cost accounting environment
• Strong understanding of manufacturing operations, inventory management, and standard costing methodologies

SKILLS/ABILITIES

• Advanced proficiency in ERP systems, accounting software, and Microsoft Excel
• Strong knowledge of cost accounting principles, including standard costing, variance analysis, inventory valuation, and inventory controls
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and experience in effectively communicating key data and working with various departments
• Ability to manage multiple priorities while consistently meeting deadlines
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Demonstrated business acumen with a clear understanding of the operational drivers of cost

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to sit/stand for extended periods of time
• Must be able to lift 5-10 pounds
• Must be able to conduct repetitive motions on a daily basis (e.g., keyboarding)

This job description does not imply these are the only duties to be performed.  The incumbent in this position will perform such other tasks as may be required for the effective operations of the Division/Department upon request by his/her supervisor.

Please note: Under the AbilityOne Program, Vibrant Works gives hiring preference to individuals who are legally blind. Any decision to disclose a disability by an applicant related to the hiring preference is completely voluntary. Requesting such information is also a part of our affirmative action efforts. Information that is disclosed will remain confidential. Also, your decision not to disclose disability status will not have a negative impact in the hiring process.

Vibrant Works is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, the use of a dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.