About the Cost Accounting Manager Role

Robert Half, through recruiter Chris Preble, is excited to partner with a leading manufacturing organization in Utica, New York, to find a talented Cost Accounting Manager. This pivotal role is central to driving product costing accuracy, inventory management, and margin analysis across multiple operations. You'll collaborate closely with operations, supply chain, and finance leaders to deliver actionable insights into cost drivers and enhance operational performance. Ideal for seasoned accounting professionals passionate about manufacturing finance, this position offers a unique opportunity to shape cost strategies in a stable, growth-oriented company.

Our client stands out with its exceptional work-life balance, comprehensive benefits, and robust career advancement paths. With a wide salary range accommodating various experience levels, the role will be customized to leverage your unique skill set. Experience low turnover and a supportive environment where your contributions directly impact business success. Join a team committed to continuous improvement and innovation in cost accounting practices.

Key Responsibilities

Core Cost Accounting Duties

• Own product costing structures in the ERP system, ensuring data accuracy and consistency for reliable financial reporting.
• Manage full inventory accounting cycle, from standard cost maintenance to labor/overhead rate updates and detailed variance analysis.
• Prepare and post essential journal entries for inventory, COGS, reserves, and production variances to maintain ledger integrity.

Month-End and Reconciliation Tasks

• Lead month-end close processes specific to cost accounting and inventory valuation.
• Reconcile GL accounts tied to inventory and handle adjustments from cycle counts and physical inventories.

Analysis and Strategic Partnership

• Conduct in-depth product margin and cost trend analysis to pinpoint drivers and improvement opportunities.
• Collaborate with operations and supply chain to assess manufacturing efficiency, material usage, and overall cost performance.
• Support audits with comprehensive documentation on inventory controls and cost accounting.
• Handle transfer pricing and intercompany cost structures as needed.
• Deliver ad-hoc analyses and contribute to finance/operations projects for data-driven decisions.

Required Qualifications

To excel as Cost Accounting Manager, candidates should bring:

• A Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline; CPA or CMA certification is highly desirable.
• At least 5-7 years of progressive cost accounting experience, preferably in manufacturing or production environments.
• Proven expertise in ERP systems like SAP, Oracle, or Epicor for product costing and inventory management.
• Strong skills in variance analysis, margin reporting, and financial modeling using advanced Excel.
• Experience with month-end closes, journal entries, GL reconciliations, and audit support.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to identify cost-saving opportunities and communicate insights to non-finance stakeholders.
• Familiarity with transfer pricing, intercompany transactions, and manufacturing metrics.
• Excellent interpersonal skills for partnering across operations, supply chain, and executive leadership.

This role suits professionals eager to advance in a dynamic manufacturing setting with room for growth.

Why Join Us

Choosing this Cost Accounting Manager position means embracing a career with unparalleled stability and rewards. Enjoy outstanding work-life balance in a low-turnover organization where employee retention is a priority. Benefit from a competitive salary range of $90,000 - $130,000, calibrated to your expertise, plus a top-tier benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.

Growth opportunities abound—take ownership of special projects that expand your influence across finance and operations. Our client's commitment to building the role around your strengths ensures a perfect fit. Located in vibrant Utica, New York, this full-time opportunity combines professional fulfillment with a high quality of life. Robert Half streamlines your application for quick placement. Apply today to elevate your cost accounting career!