Manufacturing Cost Accountant: Variance & Costing Expert

Clearbridge Executive Search; Eau Claire (WI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Clearbridge Executive Search seeks a cost-focused finance professional to manage cost and manufacturing accounting functions in a fast-paced FMCG environment in Eau Claire, WI. The role covers standard costing, variance analysis, and master data maintenance.

The candidate will coordinate cross-functional reviews with Production and Supply Chain, prepare closing activities, and support budgeting and audits. Strong Excel, SAP experience, and English communication are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• At least 3 years of experience in cost accounting, manufacturing accounting, or plant finance, preferably within an FMCG environment.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP and IFRS.
• Solid understanding of manufacturing operations, inventory management, standard costing, and cost variance analysis.
• Experience working with ERP systems, preferably SAP.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office, and financial data analysis.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English, with the ability to collaborate effectively with Finance, Production, Supply Chain, and other operational teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills, with strong attention to detail.
• Ability to manage changing business priorities, work independently, and meet deadlines.
• Self-motivated, with a proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.

Responsibilities

• Analyze manufacturing performance by comparing actual production results against standard costs and budgets.
• Review manufacturing master data that impacts product costing and coordinate corrections with operational teams.
• Prepare monthly manufacturing reports and support month-end and year-end closing activities (accruals, journal entries, reconciliations, variance analysis).
• Coordinate regular manufacturing performance reviews with Production and Supply Chain teams.
• Maintain finished goods standard costs and inventory valuations.
• Conduct obsolete inventory reviews and maintain inventory reserves.
• Maintain the fixed asset register and support capital expenditure accounting, including IFRS 16 lease accounting.
• Support the annual budgeting process by gathering data and providing relevant financial information.
• Perform and document internal controls related to manufacturing costs, inventory, and fixed assets; support audits.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Communication skills (English)

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

Tools

SAP

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Office

Job description

Clearbridge Executive Search seeks a cost-focused finance professional to manage cost and manufacturing accounting functions in a fast-paced FMCG environment in Eau Claire, WI. The role covers standard costing, variance analysis, and master data maintenance.

The candidate will coordinate cross-functional reviews with Production and Supply Chain, prepare closing activities, and support budgeting and audits. Strong Excel, SAP experience, and English communication are essential.