Cost Accountant

Drive Financial Excellence in a High-Performance Manufacturing Environment Position Summary Kruger Products is seeking a detail-oriented, analytical, and results-driven Cost Accountant to join our Finance team. This role is ideal for an experienced accounting professional with a strong background in manufacturing cost accounting who thrives on transforming financial data into actionable business insights. As a Cost Accountant, you will play a critical role in ensuring the accuracy and integrity of manufacturing cost information across all operating departments, including Pulping, Paper Machines, Converting, Maintenance, Parent Roll Sales, and Shipping. You will partner closely with operations leaders and department managers to provide meaningful cost analysis, support budgeting and forecasting activities, identify opportunities for operational improvement, and help drive informed business decisions. This position offers the opportunity to make a direct impact on manufacturing performance while working in a collaborative, fast-paced environment that values accountability, continuous improvement, and financial stewardship. Reporting Relationship The Cost Accountant reports directly to the Controller . Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities Cost Accounting & Financial Analysis Maintain accurate and timely cost information for all manufacturing and operational departments. Analyze, monitor, and report on production costs, material usage, labor costs, and manufacturing variances. Investigate cost fluctuations and provide recommendations to improve operational efficiency and cost performance. Partner with operations teams to understand cost drivers and support continuous improvement initiatives. Develop and maintain standard costing methodologies and ensure data integrity within financial systems. Inventory & Cost Control Reconcile and control mill inventory accounts and interdepartmental transfers. Coordinate monthly costing runs and perform detailed reviews and reconciliations of production costs. Ensure production volumes and actual manufacturing costs are accurately recorded and reconciled against established standards. Reconcile manufacturing costs to budget and identify significant variances. Oversee inventory accounting processes including cycle counts, physical inventories, and inventory valuation. Ensure all inventory-related transactions are properly recorded and supported by appropriate documentation. Month-End Close & Financial Reporting Execute month-end closing activities accurately and within established deadlines. Prepare and review journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules. Reconcile and maintain assigned general ledger accounts. Prepare monthly manufacturing cost reports, inventory valuation reports, and variance analyses. Provide meaningful financial insights and recommendations to management based on monthly results. Support financial audits by preparing schedules, reports, and supporting documentation as required. Budgeting, Forecasting & Business Partnership Assist department leaders in the preparation of annual operating budgets and forecasts. Compile, analyze, and present budget information for manufacturing and operational departments. Develop product cost estimates, production cost projections, and financial models to support business planning. Monitor budget performance and provide variance explanations and recommendations. Support capital projects, cost-saving initiatives, and strategic operational improvements through financial analysis. Collaboration & Continuous Improvement Build strong relationships with manufacturing, operations, engineering, maintenance, and leadership teams. Provide guidance and support to members of the Finance department as needed. Identify opportunities to streamline processes, strengthen internal controls, and improve financial reporting accuracy. Participate in special projects and continuous improvement initiatives assigned by the Cost Accounting Supervisor. Demonstrate a proactive approach to problem-solving and process optimization. Qualifications Education Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Commerce, or a related discipline required. CPA, CMA, CGA, CGMA, or other professional accounting designation preferred. Experience Minimum 5 years of progressive accounting experience , including significant experience in cost accounting within a manufacturing environment . Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, inventory accounting, standard costing, variance analysis, and financial reporting. Experience supporting budgeting, forecasting, and operational decision-making. Experience with auditing practices and internal control environments preferred. Technical Skills Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including complex formulas, pivot tables, data analysis, and financial modeling. Experience working with ERP systems and large-scale financial applications required. SAP experience strongly preferred. Strong understanding of general ledger accounting, cost accounting principles, and financial reporting processes. Professional Competencies Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills. Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy. Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines. Excellent organizational and time-management skills. Effective interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills. Ability to collaborate across multiple departments and levels of the organization. Demonstrated accountability, professionalism, and business acumen. What Success Looks Like The successful candidate will be a trusted financial partner who delivers accurate, timely, and insightful cost information that supports operational excellence and strategic decision-making. They will demonstrate ownership, accountability, and a commitment to continuous improvement while helping the organization achieve its financial and operational objectives. Why Join Kruger Products? At Kruger Products, we believe our people are our greatest asset. We offer a collaborative environment where employees are empowered to make an impact, contribute innovative ideas, and grow their careers. Join a team that values integrity, accountability, excellence, and continuous improvement while helping produce essential products used by families every day. Disclaimer: The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the responsibilities and qualifications associated with this position. Responsibilities may evolve based on business needs, and employees may be assigned additional job-related duties as required. Kruger Products is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. #J-18808-Ljbffr