We are seeking a detail-oriented and strategic Cost Controller to join our finance and operations team. The ideal candidate will manage cost accounting processes, analyze product and project costs, support gross margin improvement initiatives, and ensure accurate cost reporting to drive business decisions. This role requires strong analytical skills, cost accounting experience, and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional partners to optimize cost structures and reporting.
Key Responsibilities for Cost Controller - Cost Accounting, Analysis & Reporting
- Maintain cost accounting processes including standard costing, bill of materials, inventory valuation, and cost allocations to ensure accurate product and project costs.
- Analyze cost drivers and variances (actual vs. standard/plan); prepare timely variance explanations and actionable recommendations to management.
- Develop and maintain cost models, margin analyses, and product-level profitability reporting to support pricing, sourcing, and operational decisions.
- Partner with manufacturing/operations, procurement, engineering, and supply chain to validate cost inputs, identify improvement opportunities, and support cost reduction initiatives.
- Manage month-end and period-end cost close activities; ensure accuracy of cost of goods sold (COGS), inventory reconciliations, and related journal entries.
- Support implementation and optimization of ERP/financial systems and costing modules; participate in system upgrades, testing, and process documentation.
- Prepare and present regular cost and margin reports, KPIs, and trend analysis to finance leadership and business partners.
- Drive continuous improvement in costing processes through automation, standardization, and adoption of best practices.
- Provide guidance and training to stakeholders on cost accounting policies, procedures, and interpretation of cost results.
Required Qualifications - Cost Controller Skills & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field, or equivalent experience.
- 3+ years of progressive experience in cost accounting, manufacturing accounting, or related finance roles in a corporate or manufacturing environment.
- Solid knowledge of cost accounting principles including standard costing, variance analysis, inventory valuation, and cost allocation methodologies.
- Advanced Excel skills; experience with ERP systems and costing modules (e.g., NetSuite, Oracle, SAP) and familiarity with financial reporting tools.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills; able to collaborate with technical and non-technical stakeholders and present findings clearly.
- Ability to manage competing priorities, meet period-end deadlines, and drive cross-functional initiatives to completion.
Preferred Qualifications - Certifications & Tools
- Relevant certification such as CPA, CMA, or equivalent is a plus.
- Experience with process improvement, lean manufacturing, or cost reduction projects preferred.
Work Environment & Compensation - Cost Controller Salary & Benefits
- Full-time position with an onsite work model.
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan options, and paid time off.
- Opportunities for professional development, training, and support for continuing education and certification.
- Collaborative team environment with a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.