Manufacturing Cost Accounting Manager - Hybrid HQ

Ledgent; Phoenix (AZ); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

A global manufacturing organization based in Phoenix seeks a Manufacturing Cost Accounting Manager to oversee cost analysis, standard costs, variance review, and financial reporting. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in cost accounting, leadership experience, and excellent communication skills. This hybrid position is perfect for someone who can work across multiple teams and drive actionable insights for decision makers. Competitive salary and benefits offered.

Qualifications

• 5-8+ years of progressive cost accounting experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Experience supporting multi-site or international manufacturing operations.
• CPA, CMA, or MBA preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and maintenance of standard costs for all manufactured products globally.
• Prepare monthly and quarterly cost reports, including inventory rollforwards.
• Collaborate closely with operations and engineering teams to drive cost transparency.

Skills

Strong understanding of standard costing

Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Strong leadership and cross-functional collaboration abilities

Advanced Excel skills

Education

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

Tools

ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar)

Job description

We are a global manufacturing organization with operations across multiple countries and a U.S. headquarters in Phoenix. We design, produce, and distribute high‑quality industrial products used by customers worldwide. Our culture values collaboration, innovation, and a strong commitment to operational excellence.

Position Summary

The Manufacturing Cost Accounting Manager will lead all aspects of cost accounting across our domestic and international manufacturing footprint. This role oversees cost analysis, standard cost development, manufacturing variance review, inventory valuation, and financial reporting related to production. The ideal candidate is highly analytical, detail‑oriented, and confident communicating across finance, operations, engineering, and executive leadership. This hybrid role requires strong business partnership skills and the ability to translate complex financial data into actionable insights for decision‑makers.

Key Responsibilities

Cost Accounting & Analysis

• Lead the development and maintenance of standard costs for all manufactured products globally.
• Analyze manufacturing variances (material, labor, overhead) and partner with plant leadership to identify root causes and corrective actions.
• Review and reconcile inventory balances, inventory reserves, and cost‑of‑goods‑sold (COGS) monthly.
• Evaluate manufacturing KPIs and cost trends to support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure accurate allocation of overhead rates across multiple facilities and international entities.

Financial Reporting & Compliance

• Prepare monthly and quarterly cost reports, inventory rollforwards, and variance analyses.
• Support the month‑end close process, including journal entries and account reconciliations.
• Participate in annual budgeting and quarterly forecasting cycles.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and internal accounting policies.
• Assist with internal and external audits as needed.

Business Partnership & Communication

• Collaborate closely with operations, supply chain, procurement, and engineering teams to understand manufacturing processes and drive cost transparency.
• Present cost insights, trends, and recommendations to senior leadership in clear, concise formats.
• Support cross‑functional teams in evaluating cost implications of new products, process changes, and capital investments.

Leadership & Process Improvement

• Manage, mentor, and develop cost accounting staff (domestic and/or international).
• Drive enhancements in cost accounting methodologies, systems, and reporting tools.
• Lead process improvement initiatives to streamline and automate cost data and analytics.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 5-8+ years of progressive cost accounting experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of standard costing, inventory accounting, and cost analysis.
• Experience supporting multi‑site or international manufacturing operations.
• Advanced Excel skills; experience with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex financial concepts.
• Strong leadership and cross‑functional collaboration abilities.

Preferred

• CPA, CMA, or MBA.
• Experience with global supply chain cost structures.
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement frameworks.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, or military or veteran status. We consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act, City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance.