Sr. Manager, Cost Accounting

Description Position Overview The Senior Manager, Cost Accounting is responsible for leading the organization's cost accounting function, ensuring accurate cost structures, inventory valuation, and financial reporting in accordance with U.S. GAAP and applicable regulatory requirements. This role provides oversight across costing methodologies, analysis, and reporting, while supporting pricing, forecasting, operational decision‑making, and compliance in complex or regulated environments. Key Responsibilities + Lead, mentor, and develop a team of cost accounting professionals and analysts. + Oversee standard costing frameworks, inventory valuation, and variance analysis to ensure accuracy and consistency across the business. + Ensure cost accounting processes, models, and systems are properly designed, maintained, and controlled. + Direct revenue recognition assessments in alignment with ASC 606 requirements. + Manage the preparation and analysis of standard costs, production variances, and inventory balances. + Provide timely and reliable cost data to support pricing strategies, government contract proposals, forecasting, and financial planning. + Ensure compliance with internal policies, U.S. GAAP, and relevant federal regulations, including FAR, DFARS, and Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), as applicable. + Lead monthly and quarterly close activities related to cost accounting, including inventory and contract balance sheet reconciliations. + Partner cross‑functionally with Operations, Supply Chain, Program Management, and Finance to support business initiatives, cost optimization efforts, and process improvements. + Prepare and review intercompany billings, labor cost corrections, journal entries, and inventory transactions. + Produce recurring cost and financial analyses for executive leadership, highlighting trends, risks, and key cost drivers. + Identify opportunities to strengthen internal controls and streamline cost accounting processes through continuous improvement initiatives. + Support internal and external audit activities, including SOX compliance, self‑assessment testing, and government audits (e.g., DCAA/DCMA), as required. + Stay current on emerging cost accounting practices, tools, and regulatory updates. Requirements Qualifications + Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 12 years of relevant experience; or + Graduate degree with a minimum of 10 years of related experience; or + Equivalent professional experience (16+ years) in lieu of a degree. Preferred Experience & Skills + Strong expertise in cost accounting principles and controls, including experience in regulated or government‑contracting environments. + In‑depth knowledge of FAR, CAS, and related compliance requirements. + Experience working within both public and privately held organizations. + Proficiency with ERP and accounting systems such as Deltek Costpoint, Oracle, SAP, or similar platforms. + Advanced Microsoft Excel and data analysis capabilities. + Demonstrated leadership, analytical thinking, and communication skills. + High attention to detail with strong organizational skills. + CPA certification preferred. + Background in public accounting or internal audit a plus. 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 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 "," 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) .