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RH
Robert Half
Cost Accountant
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Based on California data
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What they do
A Cost Accountant analyzes the cost of company products or services, determines factors affecting costs, and makes recommendations for managing costs. Analyzes financial processes within a company or organization and develops internal cost reporting and accounting systems.
$91,680 / year median in California
-5% projected decline
Job Description
We are looking for an experienced Cost Accountant to support a global manufacturer serving the semiconductor and advanced technology sectors in Livermore, California. This Contract position will contribute to accurate product costing, reliable inventory valuation, and financial analysis that helps manufacturing leaders make informed operating decisions. The role works closely with finance and operations in a fast-paced production setting where precision, consistency, and sound judgment are essential.
Responsibilities:
- Manage the standard cost structure by maintaining material, labor, and overhead rates and updating assumptions as production conditions change.
- Review inventory balances across raw materials, work in process, and finished goods to help ensure valuation remains complete, accurate, and compliant with company policies.
- Complete cost-related month-end activities, including journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules tied to the close process.
- Examine manufacturing variances such as production efficiency, purchase price differences, and work order results to explain financial performance.
- Collaborate with plant and operations teams to assess cost drivers, evaluate manufacturing results, and highlight areas affecting margins or throughput.
- Track inventory exposure by identifying slow-moving, obsolete, or excess stock and assist in calculating appropriate reserve levels.
- Perform recurring assessments of labor and overhead allocations to confirm costing inputs continue to reflect operational realities.
- Support planning cycles by contributing analysis for cost of goods sold, manufacturing spend, and related budget or forecast updates.
- Participate in physical inventory activities and review inventory control practices to strengthen accuracy and accountability.
- Prepare audit-ready documentation, assist with compliance and control requirements, and deliver recurring reporting such as reserve analysis and close package support while recommending process improvements within cost accounting and inventory controls.