Manufacturing Cost Accountant — Margin & Controls Leader

Great Dane LLC; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 66,000 - 129,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Benefits package including medical, Rx

Retirement plan with 401(k) match

Tuition reimbursement

Paid holidays and vacation

Job summary

Great Dane LLC is seeking a Cost Accountant to own the general ledger and cost reporting for a manufacturing location. You will partner with plant leadership to drive accurate product costing, margin analysis, and financial visibility across the business.

The role requires 3+ years in accounting in manufacturing, strong cost accounting skills, and proficiency with ERP (JDE) and Excel. Travel and cross-functional collaboration are expected in a multi-facility environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting is required.
• 3+ years of accounting experience, preferably in manufacturing or public accounting.
• CPA preferred but not required.
• Strong cost accounting knowledge and ERP proficiency.

Responsibilities

• Own the monthly, quarterly, and annual close for assigned plants.
• Prepare accurate financial statements and supporting schedules.
• Analyze variances vs budget, forecast, and prior year.
• Prepare management reporting packages with commentary on performance drivers.
• Coordinate year-end reporting and support external audits.
• Perform detailed product costing and margin analysis.
• Analyze labor, material, and overhead variances.
• Support annual budgeting and periodic forecasting.
• Maintain internal control structure across plant operations.
• Monitor expense activity and ensure proper accruals and cut-off procedures.
• Assist with physical inventory observation at year end.

Skills

Cost accounting

ERP systems (JDE)

Advanced Excel

Communication

Multitasking

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting

CPA preferred but not required

Tools

PowerBI

JDE

Job description

Great Dane LLC is seeking a Cost Accountant to own the general ledger and cost reporting for a manufacturing location. You will partner with plant leadership to drive accurate product costing, margin analysis, and financial visibility across the business.

The role requires 3+ years in accounting in manufacturing, strong cost accounting skills, and proficiency with ERP (JDE) and Excel. Travel and cross-functional collaboration are expected in a multi-facility environment.