Sr. Cost Accountant

Description We are looking for an experienced Sr. Cost Accountant to support a manufacturing operation through a long-term contract engagement. This position is ideal for a detail-oriented finance specialist who can bring structure to plant accounting activities, strengthen inventory and costing accuracy, and keep reporting on track during demanding operational periods. The role will work closely with production, procurement, and leadership teams to translate financial results into practical recommendations that improve performance and margins.

Responsibilities:

• Lead plant cost accounting activities by maintaining accurate product costing, reviewing cost inputs, and ensuring reliable financial data for monthly reporting.
• Oversee inventory valuation processes, including reconciliations, variance review, and support for annual physical inventory activities to improve accuracy and control.
• Analyze manufacturing performance by identifying cost trends, investigating variances, and highlighting opportunities to reduce waste and improve profitability.
• Partner with operations and procurement teams to strengthen material controls, monitor purchasing impacts, and support better cost management decisions.
• Establish and refine repeatable accounting procedures, documentation, and internal controls that improve consistency and audit readiness.
• Support month-end close in a fast-paced plant environment by resolving inventory and costing issues within required deadlines.
• Prepare clear financial and operational reporting, using tools such as Power BI when needed, to provide actionable insight to business stakeholders.
• Assist with audit preparation by organizing supporting schedules, validating inventory-related records, and addressing cost accounting questions from reviewers. Requirements
• Strong experience in cost accounting within a manufacturing environment.
• Proven knowledge of standard costing principles, inventory accounting, and cost variance analysis.
• Ability to manage annual physical inventory support, reconciliations, and inventory valuation processes.
• Hands-on experience improving documentation, controls, and accounting procedures in plant finance settings.
• Demonstrated skill in cost analysis and identifying opportunities for cost optimization.
• Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams, including operations and procurement.
• Proficiency with reporting and data analysis tools, including Power BI.
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to perform well under tight deadlines and high-pressure conditions.

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 (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-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 including medical, vision, dental, life and disability insurance. Employees hired for our FTEP Program are also eligible to enroll in our company's 401(k) or deferred compensation plan (if eligible). FTEP employees also earn paid time off for vacation, personal needs, and sick time and paid holidays. The amount of Choice Time Off (CTO) received varies based on years of service and is pro-rated based on the hours worked per week. A new FTEP employee earns up to 13 days of CTO and up to 10 paid holidays per calendar year. Learn more at roberthalfbenefits.com/Resources. © 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking "," you're agreeing to Robert Half's Terms of Use (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/terms) and Privacy Notice (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/privacy) .