About the Sr. Cost Accountant Role at Robert Half

Robert Half is proud to partner with a leading manufacturing company in Gastonia, North Carolina, to find an exceptional Sr. Cost Accountant for a long-term contract opportunity. This pivotal role sits at the heart of manufacturing operations, where you'll leverage your expertise in standard costing, inventory management, and process optimization to drive financial accuracy and efficiency. Gastonia, NC, offers a thriving industrial hub just minutes from Charlotte, combining small-town charm with big-city access. As a Sr. Cost Accountant, you'll work closely with production teams, leadership, and cross-functional stakeholders to ensure precise cost tracking, BOM accuracy, and streamlined workflows using Sage MAS 500. This position is ideal for seasoned professionals passionate about manufacturing accounting, process improvement, and team leadership in a dynamic environment.

With Robert Half's unmatched network in finance and accounting recruitment, this role provides stability through a long-term contract, competitive compensation, and pathways to permanent opportunities. If you excel in cost analysis, ERP systems, and fostering collaborative improvements, join our client's team and make a tangible impact on their manufacturing success.

Why Gastonia, NC is the Perfect Location for Accounting Careers

Gastonia, North Carolina, in the United States, is a manufacturing powerhouse in the Piedmont region, home to numerous industrial firms benefiting from its strategic proximity to major highways and Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Cost accountants here enjoy a lower cost of living compared to larger metros, allowing your salary to stretch further while contributing to a vibrant community with excellent schools, parks, and cultural amenities.

Key Responsibilities

In this Sr. Cost Accountant position, you'll lead critical functions in a manufacturing setting. Expect to dive deep into cost accounting records, ensuring every manufacturing process is accurately captured and analyzed. You'll manage bills of materials (BOMs), scrutinizing them for optimal cost allocation and identifying variances that could impact profitability. Process improvement will be at your core—spotting inefficiencies, proposing data-driven solutions, and collaborating with leadership to refine accounting workflows for greater stability and speed.

Inventory oversight is paramount; you'll handle valuation, cycle counts, and reporting to maintain precision in financial statements. Proficiency with Sage MAS 500 is essential, as you'll use it to automate tasks, generate reports, and enhance overall efficiency. Leading a small team means providing mentorship, delegating tasks, and ensuring hands-on support for daily operations. Your detailed cost analyses will inform executive decisions, while upholding standard costing compliance keeps the organization audit-ready. Cross-departmental partnerships will be key, gathering inputs from production, procurement, and sales to foster holistic process enhancements.

Required Qualifications

To thrive as our Sr. Cost Accountant, bring at least 5-7 years of progressive experience in cost accounting within manufacturing or industrial sectors. A Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required, with CPA or CMA certifications highly valued. Deep expertise in standard costing methodologies, inventory management, and BOM evaluation is non-negotiable. Hands-on experience with Sage MAS 500 or comparable ERP systems like SAP or Oracle is crucial for success.

Demonstrated leadership skills are essential, as you'll guide a small team through complex daily operations. Strong analytical abilities, paired with a knack for process improvement, will set you apart—previous achievements in identifying cost savings or workflow optimizations are a plus. Excellent communication skills enable seamless collaboration across departments, while meticulous attention to detail ensures compliance and accuracy. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, advanced financial modeling, and manufacturing metrics rounds out the ideal profile. Candidates must be authorized to work in the US and able to commit to a long-term contract in Gastonia, NC.

Why Join Us?

Partnering with Robert Half means accessing top-tier opportunities in Gastonia's manufacturing landscape. This long-term contract offers an estimated $85,000-$110,000 annualized rate (based on market data for Sr. Cost Accountants in the area), weekly pay, and professional support from our expert recruiters. Gain exposure to cutting-edge manufacturing processes, lead impactful initiatives, and build your network in a collaborative culture that values innovation and growth.

Robert Half provides unparalleled benefits for contractors, including training resources, career coaching, and exclusive job alerts. Contribute to real process transformations, mentor emerging talent, and position yourself for future full-time roles. Gastonia's growing economy and Robert Half's reputation make this the launchpad for your next career milestone. Apply today and elevate your cost accounting career!