About the Cost Accounting Manager Role at Robert Half

Robert Half is proud to partner with a leading manufacturing company in Visalia, California, to find an exceptional Cost Accounting Manager. This full-time position offers a unique opportunity to lead financial operations in a dynamic plant environment. As the Cost Accounting Manager, you will be at the heart of the organization's financial success, overseeing cost accounting, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting processes. Located in the heart of California's Central Valley, Visalia provides an ideal setting for professionals seeking career growth in manufacturing finance while enjoying a vibrant community and work-life balance.

This role is perfect for seasoned accounting professionals with expertise in manufacturing cost systems. You will drive financial insights that directly impact plant performance, support strategic decision-making, and contribute to operational efficiency. With Robert Half's expertise in talent placement, we ensure a seamless hiring process and connect top candidates with rewarding opportunities like this one.

Why This Role Stands Out

In today's competitive manufacturing landscape, accurate cost management is crucial. Our client seeks a proactive leader who can transform complex financial data into actionable insights. This position offers visibility at the executive level, opportunities for innovation in cost standards, and direct influence on profitability. Join a team committed to excellence and growth in Visalia, CA.

Key Responsibilities

The Cost Accounting Manager will handle a comprehensive set of duties focused on precision and strategic financial support:

• Track and analyze plant operations to deliver actionable insights on KPIs such as production efficiency, material usage, and labor costs.
• Develop and maintain accurate standard costs for all manufactured products, ensuring alignment with actual production variances.
• Prepare detailed budgets, analyze fixed expenses, and create financial forecasts to guide plant leadership in resource allocation.
• Maintain the integrity of financial data systems, implementing controls for accuracy in reporting processes.
• Lead monthly closing activities, including preparing journal entries, conducting variance analyses, and generating inventory reports.
• Provide comprehensive costing information to operational teams, enabling informed decision-making on pricing, sourcing, and process improvements.
• Perform monthly reconciliations of assigned accounts to uphold financial accuracy and compliance.
• Collaborate on establishing cost standards for new products and processes, fostering innovation and cost efficiencies.
• Prepare and distribute weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly financial reports for management review, highlighting trends and recommendations.

Required Qualifications

To excel as our Cost Accounting Manager, candidates should demonstrate:

• A Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field; CPA or CMA certification is highly preferred.
• At least 5-7 years of progressive experience in cost accounting, ideally within manufacturing or production environments.
• Deep expertise in standard costing methodologies, variance analysis, and inventory valuation techniques.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel (advanced functions, pivot tables) and ERP systems like SAP, Oracle, or JD Edwards.
• Proven track record in budgeting, forecasting, and monthly financial close processes.
• Excellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and communicate insights effectively to non-financial stakeholders.
• Familiarity with GAAP principles and manufacturing-specific financial reporting requirements.
• Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced plant setting.
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance with 5+ years manufacturing experience preferred.

Key skills include cost accounting, variance analysis, KPI tracking, budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, standard costing, inventory management, journal entries, and ERP proficiency.

Why Join Us?

Partnering with Robert Half means accessing premier opportunities with competitive compensation. This role offers a salary range of $70,000 - $90,000 annually, based on experience, plus comprehensive benefits including health insurance, 401(k) matching, PTO, and performance bonuses. Visalia, California, boasts a low cost of living, proximity to national parks, and a thriving agricultural economy, making it an excellent place for career and lifestyle advancement.

Our client provides a collaborative culture, professional development, and the tools to succeed. Robert Half supports your career with expert recruitment services. If you're ready to elevate your finance career in manufacturing, connect with Ross Wheeler on LinkedIn or apply today. This is more than a job—it's a chance to make a lasting impact. (Word count: 852)