Cost Accountant, Financial Services

Laurentian University; Greater Sudbury; Hybrid; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A post-secondary educational institution in Sudbury seeks a Cost Accountant to support financial budgeting and analysis. This role involves working closely with department leaders, monitoring budget performance, and providing financial reporting. Candidates should have a relevant degree and CPA designation, along with strong skills in financial software and analytics. A flexible work arrangement is supported, promoting work-life balance within the organization.

Benefits

Customized rewards programs focusing on flexibility and work-life integration

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of relevant experience in cost accounting or budgeting.
• Proven ability to analyze financial data and prepare reports.
• Experience working in a university or public-sector environment.

Responsibilities

• Support budget preparation and management.
• Monitor and report on budget performance.
• Analyze historical financial data and forecast future trends.
• Collaborate with department heads on budget matters.

Skills

Cost accounting

Financial analysis

Analytical abilities

Communication skills

Microsoft Excel

Problem-solving

Budget management

Attention to detail

Interpersonal skills

Bilingual (French and English)

Education

University Degree in Finance, Accounting, or Economics

CPA designation or actively pursuing

Tools

Excel

QuickBooks

SAP

Job description

Required Position

Full-Time Appointment

Responsibilities

Reporting to the Director of Planning & Budgeting the Cost Accountant supports the preparation, management, and analysis of financial budgets within an organization. This role ensures that budgets align with organizational goals, monitors expenditures, and provides accurate financial reporting to support strategic decision-making. The Cost Accountant works closely with department heads and leadership to track performance against financial targets and report on results. Additionally, this position will be involved in the analysis and handling of confidential labour relations information.

• Assist in the preparation and consolidation of the organization's annual budget;
• Collaborate with department leaders to gather input and align budgetary goals with organizational priorities;
• Review and analyze historical financial data to forecast future trends and spending needs;
• Track, monitor, and report on budget performance, including variances between actual and planned expenditures;
• Conduct monthly, quarterly, and annual budget reviews to ensure financial targets are being met;
• Identify and address discrepancies, inefficiencies, and overspending;
  Assist in the preparation of detailed financial reports and presentations for stakeholders, including leadership and board members;
• Ensure accurate documentation and compliance with organizational and regulatory standards;
• Provide recommendations for adjustments to improve budget alignment and cost-effectiveness;
• Serve as a liaison between the finance team and other departments regarding budget-related inquiries;
• Provide training and support to staff on budget procedures, tools, and policies;
• Ensure adherence to financial regulations and policies;
• Maintain accurate records of budget approvals, amendments, and supporting documentation;
• Evaluate and improve budgeting processes and systems to enhance efficiency and accuracy;
• Stay updated on financial best practices, tools, and software;and
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Completion of a University Degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field.
• Minimum of three (3) to five (5) years of relevant experience in cost accounting, budgeting, financial analysis, or a related role, preferably in a university or public-sector environment.
• A Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designation is required, or must be actively pursuing a CPA Designation.
• Strong knowledge of financial software and budgeting tools (e.g., Excel, QuickBooks, SAP).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication skills.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills (e.g., pivot tables, macros).
• Attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of the principles & practices of process improvements.
• Ability to understand and meet the needs of internal stakeholders.
• Ability to respond quickly to emerging opportunities or risks.
• Ability to work fluently (verbal and written) in both official languages, French and English, is required.

The official University hours of operation shall be from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, during, and including, the months from September to April, and from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m Monday through Friday during and including May to August., amounting to thirty-three and three-quarter (33.75) hours per week.

Laurentian University has adopted a formal Policy on Flexible Work Arrangements, which supports remote work plans based on operational considerations. At Laurentian University, we recognize that work-life balance is essential for both personal well-being and professional success. Our policy offers employees some flexibility to better balance personal needs while maintaining effective service delivery.

• Customized rewards programs that focus on flexibility and work-life integration
• Customized rewards programs that focus on flexibility and work-life integration
• Customized rewards programs that focus on flexibility and work-life integration
• Customized rewards programs that focus on flexibility and work-life integration
• Customized rewards programs that focus on flexibility and work-life integration
• Customized rewards programs that focus on flexibility and work-life integration