Sr. Cost Accountant

We are looking for an experienced Sr. Cost Accountant to join a chemicals manufacturing organization in Decatur, Alabama. This contract position offers the potential to become permanent and is suited for a detail-oriented finance specialist who can bring strong manufacturing cost expertise, sharpen reporting accuracy, and support operational decision-making in a dynamic production setting. The role will contribute to inventory integrity, cost analysis, and monthly financial activities while working closely with cross-functional teams.

Responsibilities:

Oversee standard cost data by evaluating material inputs, bills of materials, labor assumptions, and overhead allocations to keep costing models accurate. Manage inventory-related accounting activities, including reconciliations, cycle count reviews, and analysis of discrepancies affecting financial results. Develop cost estimates, profitability reviews, and manufacturing performance reports to support business planning and operational insight. Contribute to month-end close by preparing journal entries, reconciling accounts, and analyzing cost-related financial results. Collaborate with operations, supply chain, and finance partners to assess production spending and highlight opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce cost. Strengthen cost accounting controls by reviewing inventory and production information for completeness, consistency, and accuracy. Assist with planning activities such as budgeting and forecasting, and provide supporting documentation for internal or external audits. At least 3 years of cost accounting experience, ideally within a manufacturing environment. Demonstrated knowledge of standard costing, inventory accounting, variance analysis, and core manufacturing finance practices. Experience working with ERP platforms such as SAP, Oracle NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics 365, or comparable systems. Advanced Excel skills with the ability to analyze large data sets; experience with Power BI is an advantage. Strong analytical thinking, organization, and communication skills. Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline. Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles. Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more. All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information. © 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking "Apply Now," you're agreeing to Robert Half's Terms of Use and Privacy Notice .