Senior Cost Accountant, Pennsylvania

Job Title: Senior Cost Accountant

Location: Bethlehem, PA 18017

Duration: Permanent

Salary: $90,000 – $100,000 per annum

 

DEPARTMENT: Finance

REPORTS TO: Controller

 

JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking a highly analytical and detail-oriented Senior Cost Accountant to join our Finance team at a 24-hour manufacturing facility. This role is essential in analyzing production costs, monitoring inventory and variances, and driving data-informed decisions that enhance operational efficiency and profitability. A strong grasp of manufacturing processes and close collaboration with Production, Engineering, and Supply Chain teams is critical for success.

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Analyze and monitor standard and actual costs; report variances for materials, labor, and overhead.

Create and maintain product costing in the ERP system using BOMs, routers, scrap/yield factors, and labor/overhead rates.

Ensure accuracy of product costs through ERP data audits and analysis.

Develop cost accounting systems and models to support budgeting and forecasting.

Perform COGS and gross margin analysis across multiple legal entities and product lines.

Conduct monthly inventory analysis, including physical counts, reconciliations, and adjustments.

Analyze inventory and related balance sheet accounts; prepare reconciliations.

Collaborate with production teams to track and evaluate manufacturing efficiency, waste, and yield.

Prepare reports for cost of goods manufactured (COGM) and cost of goods sold (COGS).

Support monthly and year-end close processes including journal entries and audit documentation.

Monitor WIP, raw materials, and finished goods inventory for financial accuracy.

Provide insights and recommendations for cost control and margin improvement.

Identify and implement automation opportunities and enhanced analytical tools.

Document procedures for industrial accounting processes.

Assist in capital expenditure analysis and cost implications.

Ensure compliance with internal controls, company policies, and accounting standards.

 

QUALIFICATIONS & COMPETENCIES

In-depth knowledge of cost/industrial accounting and US GAAP.

Proficiency with ERP systems (experience required).

Advanced Excel skills (including pivot tables and VLOOKUP); BI/database tools are a plus.

Strong ability to manage priorities in a fast-paced, 24/7 production environment.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; effective cross-functional collaboration.

High intellectual curiosity and advanced analytical thinking.

CMA, CPA, or MBA is a plus.

On-site presence required; must be comfortable working on the production floor.

Availability for occasional off-shift or weekend work (e.g., inventory counts).

 

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.

3 – 5 years of cost accounting experience in a manufacturing environment required.