Senior Cost Accountant

Description Senior Cost Accountant Manufacturing Cost Accounting Leader | Growth Opportunity Elk Grove Village, IL (On-Site) | $95,000-$115,000 Base + Bonus | Day 1 Benefits | Career Growth Own the Numbers Behind the Parts. Influence the Future of the Business. Are you a manufacturing accounting professional who thrives on turning operational data into strategic financial insight? At Acme Industries , we're looking for a Senior Cost Accountant who wants more than a traditional accounting role. This is a highly visible position where you'll partner directly with operations, engineering, and leadership to drive profitability, improve costing accuracy, and influence key business decisions. Reporting directly to the Controller , you'll take ownership of cost accounting, inventory valuation, and manufacturing financial analysis across our precision machining operations. Your work will directly impact how we cost, quote, and grow the business. If you're looking for a position where your ideas matter, your expertise is valued, and your career can grow alongside a thriving organization, we want to hear from you. About Acme Industries Since 1948 , Acme Industries has been a trusted manufacturer of precision-machined castings and forgings serving critical industries including: Aerospace Defense Power Generation Mining Transportation With more than 75 years of success, we continue to invest in new systems, operational improvements, and talent to support our growth. As we expand, our finance team plays a critical role in helping guide the business forward. What You'll Be Doing As our Senior Cost Accountant, you'll serve as the financial expert behind manufacturing performance and inventory management. Cost Accounting & Manufacturing Analysis Own cost accounting for manufacturing operations, including: Standard cost development Variance analysis Job costing Analyze a complex mix of large, low-to-mid-volume, tight-tolerance precision parts Partner with operations, engineering, and quoting teams to translate shop-floor activity into accurate financial results and actionable cost insights Inventory & Cost Control Manage inventory valuation and cost integrity Oversee cycle counts, WIP tracking, and annual physical inventory processes Ensure accurate cost flow through inventory and production activities Financial Reporting & Close Support monthly, quarterly, and annual close activities Prepare journal entries, reconciliations, and financial reports in accordance with GAAP Maintain strong internal controls and support external audits Business Partnership & Strategic Planning Analyze margins by product, customer, and program Identify cost-saving opportunities and pricing risks Assist with budgeting, forecasting, and capital planning initiatives Work closely with AP and AR teams to ensure accurate financial reporting Process Improvement & Systems Enhancement Support ERP and process improvement initiatives Help build scalable financial systems and processes that support Acme's continued growth What We’re Looking For Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field 5+ years of progressive accounting experience Significant experience in a manufacturing environment such as: Precision machining Industrial manufacturing Job shop operations Similar production environments Strong expertise in: Standard costing Variance analysis Inventory valuation (FIFO, LIFO, Average Cost) Bills of Material (BOMs) Routings Work in Process (WIP) Solid understanding of GAAP and internal controls Experience using ERP systems such as: SAP Oracle Microsoft Dynamics Epicor Made2Manage IQMS Or similar platforms Advanced Excel skills Strong analytical abilities and the confidence to communicate financial results with non-financial stakeholders The Ideal Candidate You don't just close the books. You look for better ways to do things. We're looking for someone with an ownership mindset who enjoys solving problems, improving processes, and helping leaders make smarter business decisions. Preferred Qualifications While not required, the following would be a plus: CPA, CMA, or CGMA designation Aerospace, defense, or regulated manufacturing experience Familiarity with AS9100 or ITAR environments Experience supporting a growing mid-sized organization undergoing process and systems improvements Why Join Acme? Competitive Compensation $95,000-$115,000 base salary Performance bonus opportunity Weekly pay Outstanding Benefits Starting Day One Medical, dental, and vision coverage with no waiting period 401(k) with company match HSA and FSA programs Company-paid life insurance Company-paid disability coverage Career Growth Clear growth path within Acme's finance organization Opportunity to expand responsibilities as the company continues to grow Tuition assistance and certification support for CPA, CMA, and other continuing education programs A Place Where Your Work Matters Real ownership and influence Direct visibility to leadership Ability to shape costing methodologies and financial processes Collaborative partnership with operations and engineering Stability Meets Opportunity 75+ years of manufacturing excellence Strong presence in aerospace, defense, and other critical industries Clean, modern, and safe facility Leadership team that values finance as a strategic business partner Gainsharing bonus program #J-18808-Ljbffr