Cost Accountant

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for a Cost Accountant to join a manufacturing organization in Fort Wayne, Indiana. This role focuses on delivering accurate cost data, supporting inventory and production reporting, and helping leadership make informed financial decisions. The ideal candidate combines strong analytical ability with practical experience in manufacturing finance and works effectively with both accounting and operations teams.

Responsibilities:
• Maintain and update standard costing for materials, labor, and factory overhead to reflect current production conditions.
• Review manufacturing cost performance and explain differences between expected and actual results across key expense categories.
• Prepare recurring analysis related to inventory valuation and cost of goods sold to support monthly financial reporting.
• Work closely with production and operational leaders to identify major cost drivers and improve visibility into plant performance.
• Contribute to budgeting and forecasting activities by providing detailed input on manufacturing expenses and operational trends.
• Reconcile inventory-related accounts and assist with month-end and year-end closing activities to ensure financial accuracy.
• Participate in physical inventory counts and cycle count processes while helping investigate discrepancies and improve count reliability.
• Strengthen cost accounting procedures, reporting tools, and internal controls to improve efficiency and data quality.
• Provide actionable financial recommendations that support margin improvement and overall profitability.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.

• 2-5 years of experience in cost accounting, manufacturing finance, or a similar analytical accounting role.

• Solid knowledge of standard costing, variance analysis, inventory accounting, and accrual-based financial practices.

• Advanced Excel skills with the ability to analyze data and build meaningful financial reports.

• Experience working with ERP platforms; familiarity with Microsoft Business Central is an advantage.

• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments.

• Background in a manufacturing or production environment is required.

• CPA or CMA certification preferred but not required