Cost Accountant

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for a skilled Cost Accountant to support manufacturing finance operations for a company in Decatur, Alabama. This position partners closely with plant and department leaders to strengthen cost visibility, improve financial planning, and support sound operational decisions. The ideal candidate brings strong experience in plant accounting, a sharp analytical approach, and the ability to translate financial data into practical business insights.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and manage plant cost accounting methods, controls, and reporting practices that support accurate product and operational costing.

• Review manufacturing expenses, production trends, and site performance to identify savings opportunities and recommend actions that improve efficiency.

• Maintain reliable cost accounting procedures and help ensure transactions, classifications, and supporting records are recorded correctly.

• Contribute to annual budget preparation, periodic reforecasts, and financial outlooks in coordination with plant leadership and operational teams.

• Work with department managers to track spending, compare results to plan, and support accountability for cost center performance.

• Prepare recurring financial reports for plant operations, including analysis of actual results versus budget and forecast expectations.

• Provide clear financial analysis to management and internal stakeholders to support decision-making and ongoing operational improvement initiatives.

• Take part in special assignments and process improvement efforts that strengthen productivity, cost control, and overall plant financial performance.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• At least five years of accounting experience, with strong preference for experience in a manufacturing setting.
• Demonstrated knowledge of general accounting principles, cost accounting practices, forecasting, and plant unit cost structures.
• Hands-on experience with cost analysis, standard costing, and manufacturing cost accounting processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret financial results and recommend practical improvements.
• High level of accuracy, organization, and attention to detail in a deadline-driven environment.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams in a fast-paced manufacturing operation.