Senior Cost Accountant

Accounting Search; Canonsburg (Washington County); On-site; USD 80,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Accounting Search is seeking a Senior Cost Accountant – Cost & Financial Reporting in Canonsburg, PA. You will lead project accounting, develop labor absorption rates, and support pricing, billing, and margin analysis, while contributing to month-end close and financial reporting.

The role requires 3–5 years of experience, a Bachelor’s in Accounting, and proficiency with ERP systems. Familiarity with Microsoft Dynamics is a plus; GAAP knowledge is essential.

Qualifications

• Proficiency with ERP and data entry systems.
• Microsoft Dynamics experience is a plus.
• General ledger accounting and financial reporting knowledge.
• Experience in project, job, or service-based cost accounting.
• Knowledge of GAAP (U.S.).
• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or related field.
• 3–5 years of experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and periodically update absorption rates for labor burden and materials to ensure full cost recovery and accurate pricing and billing.
• Perform project accounting, including job/project cost tracking, unbilled revenue accruals, and profitability reporting.
• Analyze pay rate vs. bill rate spreads and gross margin by customer/project/division; develop reports on financial results and KPIs.
• Reconcile timekeeping, payroll, and billing data to ensure labor costs are captured against the correct projects.
• Collaborate with divisional operations to review cost centers and expense coding; resolve discrepancies and advise the Controller.
• Support monthly close for multiple entities, including journal entries and GAAP reconciliations.
• Prepare documentation for external auditors and coordinate with banks and insurers as needed.
• Assist Controller with financial analysis, system changes, process improvements and strategic initiatives.

Skills

ERP systems

MS Dynamics

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or related field

Job description

Senior Cost Accountant

Salary $80,000.00- $ 95,000.00 + Bonus + 401 K

seeking a detail-oriented Senior Accountant – Cost & Financial Reporting to lead project accounting and develop and maintain labor-based absorption rates supporting pricing, billing, and margin analysis. This position will also support financial reporting, general ledger activities, and month-end closing processes, helping maintain accurate financial records, analyze project costs and variances, and support operational reporting.

Educational / Experience Requirements

·Proficiency with an integrated ERP and data entry systems, Microsoft Dynamics experience is a plus.

·Accounting experience with a strong understanding of general ledger accounting and financial reporting.

·Experience in project, job, or service-based cost accounting; staffing, professional services, or field services industry experience preferred.

·Knowledge of accounting principles and U.S. (GAAP).

·Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a related field.

·3-5 years of experience

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and periodically update absorption rates for labor burden (wages, payroll taxes, workers' compensation, benefits, travel/per diem, and training) and for consumables and materials passed through to customers, ensuring full cost recovery and accurate pricing and billing.
• Perform project accounting, including job/project cost tracking, unbilled revenue accruals, and project and customer profitability reporting.
• Analyze pay rate vs. bill rate spreads and gross margin by customer, project, and division; recommend pricing adjustments and develop reports communicating financial results, cost trends, and key performance indicators.
• Reconcile timekeeping, payroll, and billing data to ensure labor costs are accurately captured and charged to the correct projects.
• Work with divisional operations teams to review cost centers, expense coding, and allocations, resolve discrepancies, and provide recommendations to the Controller.
• Support the monthly close for multiple entities, including journal entries, U.S. GAAP account reconciliations, analysis of significant accounts, and general ledger maintenance.
• Prepare documentation for external auditors and interact with outside organizations, such as banks and insurance companies, as needed.
• Assist the Controller and management with financial analysis, system changes, process improvements, and strategic initiatives.

Qualifications

·Proficient level of numerical and analytical problem-solving skills

·Effective written and verbal communication skills and the ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive financial information.

·Ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

·Team member mentality with ability to work independently adhering to established internal control procedures with minimal supervision and quality assurance mindset.