Manufacturing Cost Analyst & Process Optimizer

LHH; Minneapolis, Saint Paul (MN, MN); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

LHH in Minneapolis, MN is seeking a detail-oriented Cost Accountant to support standard costing, variance analysis, and cost reporting across manufacturing operations.

You will partner with operations, manage inventory reconciliations, assist with budgeting and ERP enhancements, and ensure GAAP compliance through accurate journals and schedules.

Join a collaborative finance team and contribute to cost improvements and reliable financial insights for multiple business units.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Cost accounting experience, preferably within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of standard costing, inventory accounting, variance analysis, and financial reporting.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills including pivot tables, lookups, and data analysis.
• Experience with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics, or similar platforms.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Maintain standard cost systems and analyze material, labor, and overhead variances.
• Prepare monthly inventory reconciliations and support month-end close activities.
• Analyze manufacturing costs, margins, and profitability across products and business units.
• Monitor inventory transactions, cycle counts, and physical inventory processes to ensure accuracy.
• Partner with operations and supply chain teams to identify cost-saving opportunities and process improvements.
• Prepare and review journal entries, accruals, account reconciliations, and financial reports.
• Support annual budgeting, forecasting, and long-range planning activities.
• Assist with ERP system enhancements, cost roll updates, and data integrity initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and internal control requirements.
• Support internal and external audits by providing schedules, analysis, and documentation.

Skills

Cost accounting

Standard costing

Inventory accounting

Variance analysis

Financial reporting

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance

Tools

SAP

Oracle

NetSuite

Microsoft Dynamics

Job description

LHH in Minneapolis, MN is seeking a detail-oriented Cost Accountant to support standard costing, variance analysis, and cost reporting across manufacturing operations.

You will partner with operations, manage inventory reconciliations, assist with budgeting and ERP enhancements, and ensure GAAP compliance through accurate journals and schedules.

Join a collaborative finance team and contribute to cost improvements and reliable financial insights for multiple business units.