Cost Accountant - Manufacturing

Danone North America; California (MO); On-site; USD 67,000 - 96,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Medical, Dental, Vision coverage

401(k) Plan

Wellness Program

Tuition Reimbursement

Flexible Time Off

Paid Parental Leave

Job summary

Danone North America is looking for a Cost Accountant in City of Industry, CA, to manage costs and ensure accurate reporting in food manufacturing. This role requires strong analytical skills and relevant experience for optimizing financial decision-making.

The position offers a salary range of $67K to $96K, along with a comprehensive benefits package. Join a leading company committed to health through food.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in cost accounting, preferably in a food manufacturing environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain standard costs and analyze production costs.
• Conduct variance analysis and collaborate to optimize cost efficiency.
• Assist in annual budgeting and lead inventory audits.

Skills

Strong analytical skills

Excellent problem-solving skills

Proficiency in Excel

Excellent communication skills

Knowledge of GAAP

Education

Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field

Tools

ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, JDE)

Microsoft Office

Job description

Cost Accountant - Manufacturing

Job ID: 2026-26294 | Number to Hire: 1 | Job Family: Manufacturing | Level of Experience: Experienced Professionals | Location: City of Industry, CA

Short Intro and About the Job

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Cost Accountant to join our finance team at the City of Industry, CA facility.

Reporting to the Plant Controller, the ideal candidate will be responsible for analyzing and managing the costs associated with our food manufacturing processes, ensuring accurate cost reporting, and supporting financial decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

The following responsibilities outline the core expectations and contributions for this position:

• Develop and maintain standard costs for raw materials, labor, and overhead.
• Analyze production costs and prepare regular reports comparing standard costs to actual production costs.
• Conduct variance analysis to identify and explain cost discrepancies.
• Identify and resolve cost-related issues by analyzing data and collaborating with cross‑functional teams.
• Collaborate with the production and supply chain teams to optimize cost efficiency.
• Perform monthly closing activities, including preparation of manufacturing variances and supporting analysis.
• Assist in the preparation of the annual budget and periodic forecasts.
• Lead inventory cycle count and audits, reconcile inventory discrepancies.
• Ensure compliance with internal controls and financial policies.
• Provide cost analysis and support for new product development.
• Prepare and present cost reports to management.
• Analyze daily production variances, update system accordingly.
• Generate daily or weekly variance reports and provide business insights to plant management.
• Investigate and resolve Accounts Payable related issues.
• Manage all inventory transactions at the plant and 3PL, verify daily production postings to ensure proper inventory is reported.
• Analyze all inventory variances, identify root causes and drive improvements.

Physical Demands

• This role may require standing for extended periods and lifting up to 25 lbs.

Work Environment

• Work is performed in a manufacturing environment with exposure to moderate noise and temperature variations.
• Work schedules could include nights, weekends, and/or holidays to support a 24/7 manufacturing environment as business needs dictate.

Engagement in our Integrated Work Systems

Ensure adherence to plant standards and procedures (including but not limited to GMP, AIB, FDA, IWS, Quality, Safety, Finance, ISO, HOPE, Danone Behaviors, Daily Direction Setting, Driving OE). Participate and own the implementation and deployment of the IWS system and its pillars (Leadership foundation, Daily Direction Setting, Driving OE; Autonomous Maintenance; planned Maintenance; Focused Improvement; Education and Training; Environmental, Health and Safety; Quality; Organization; Supply Network; Early Equipment Management) with the objective of owning your space, performance (Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery, Mobilization, Nature), and continuous improvement.

Compensation & Benefits

The salary range for this position is: $67K - $96K. The exact salary offered will depend on several factors, including the candidate's relevant experience, internal equity, and market conditions. Danone USA offers a performance-based bonus and a comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Drug Coverage, 401(k) Plan, Wellness Program, Life Insurance, Tuition Reimbursement, Flexible Time Off, and Paid Parental Bonding Leave, among other options.

About You

The ideal candidate will bring a combination of education, experience, and skills that enable them to excel in this position. The following qualifications outline what we’re looking for, including both required and preferred criteria:

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field, required.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in cost accounting, preferably in a food manufacturing environment, required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and the ability to think critically.
• Proficiency in Excel & Microsoft Office products.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of GAAP and relevant accounting standards.
• Experience with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, or JDE.
• Familiarity with principles and practices for operational excellence.
• Analytical skills: review and interpret complex financial data, identify trends, and make informed decisions based on analysis.
• Problem‑solving: identify issues within financial records or cost structures and develop solutions to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
• Attention to detail: ensure accuracy in financial reporting and cost analysis.
• Critical thinking: evaluate various financial scenarios and their potential impacts on the business.
• Communication: convey financial information and recommendations to management and other departments to implement cost‑saving measures.
• Organizational skills: manage multiple financial reports, budgets, and analyses, meeting deadlines.

About Us

Danone U.S. is part of Danone North America, a purpose‑driven company and an industry leader in the food and beverage category.

With approximately 5,000 employees and 13 production locations across the U.S., Danone North America’s mission is to bring health through food to as many people as possible.

We are a Certified B Corp and we work to create real value for people and the planet. Join our movement for a healthier world.

Danone North America is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. We give equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to legally protected characteristics or any other consideration made unlawful by applicable federal, state, provincial, and/or local law.

For our EEO policy statement and your EEO rights under law, please refer to the company's internal policy.