Cost Accountant

We are looking for a Cost Accountant to join our team in California. This role is well suited for an experienced accounting specialist who can manage complex cost accounting activities in a manufacturing environment while supporting accurate financial reporting and regulatory compliance. The position plays a key part in inventory accounting, margin analysis, and period-end close, while also helping strengthen processes and guide entry-level team members.

Responsibilities:

• Manage monthly and quarterly accounting activities tied to inventory, cost of sales, and revenue-related transactions, ensuring timely and accurate close execution.
• Prepare journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules to maintain reliable financial records and strengthen reporting accuracy.
• Review standard costs, analyze manufacturing variances, and investigate cost trends to identify issues and improve financial visibility.
• Produce gross margin reporting and interpret performance results for leadership, offering clear insights into operational and financial outcomes.
• Oversee inventory accounting controls, participate in physical inventory reviews, and support audit readiness through organized documentation and analysis.
• Provide day-to-day guidance to cost accounting and estimating staff, helping develop technical knowledge and consistency in work quality.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to uphold compliance with internal policies, revenue recognition guidance, and applicable government contracting requirements.
• Recommend and implement improvements to cost accounting procedures, internal controls, and reporting workflows to increase efficiency and accuracy.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• 7–10 years of progressive cost accounting experience, including substantial work in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong background in standard costing, inventory accounting, cost analysis, and month-end close activities.
• Experience supporting or working within aerospace, defense, or government contracting environments is strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of compliance frameworks, internal controls, and financial reporting requirements relevant to cost accounting functions.
• Proficiency with Oracle and advanced Microsoft Excel skills for analysis, reconciliation, and reporting.
• Ability to explain financial information clearly, apply strong analytical judgment, and work effectively with limited supervision.