Cost Accountant

Cost Accountants need solid organizational, communication, problem solving and research abilities. Companies also seek strong technology skills, including proficiency in Excel and ERP systems. A bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance will almost always be required.

Typical duties include:

Monitoring unit cost variance.
Implementing cost standards for materials and labor.
Preparing cost-of-goods-sold and production reports.
Reconciling beginning raw materials, WIP and finished goods stock.

A more senior level cost accountant (more than three years) will have a solid understanding of manufacturing operations, extremely strong proficiency with MS Office and ERP systems, and an additional degree such as an MBA or CMA.

Some duties will include:

Analyzing operations and equipment relative to availability, utilization and retirement.
Performing month-end cost accounting close.
Maintaining cost accounting system and cost ledger.
Performing life cycle cost-benefit analysis.
Developing cost standards for materials and labor.
Designing and implementing cost accounting systems.
Analyzing costs and recommending changes.
Supervising cost / inventory departments.