Senior Cost Accountant

Applied Aerospace & Defense; Stockton (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Aerospace & Defense is seeking a Cost Accountant to provide expert analysis of cost structures, inventory valuations, and profitability to support strategic decisions. You will collaborate with production, procurement, and finance to ensure accurate cost reporting and drive continuous improvement.

In this role, you will analyze manufacturing costs, support budgeting and forecasting, manage month-end close related to cost accounting, and contribute to audits and internal controls.

Qualifications

• Prepare, analyze, and report costs, identifying variances and opportunities for improvement.
• Manage inventory valuation, costing methods, and policy compliance.
• Develop annual budgets, forecasts, and long-term cost scenarios.
• Close costs in month-end reporting, reconciling COGS and inventory adjustments.
• Drive cost-control initiatives to improve profitability and efficiency.
• Support cross-functional projects to enhance financial controls and data accuracy.
• Assist with audits by providing cost data and supporting documentation.
• ITAR eligibility and export control compliance awareness.

Responsibilities

• Prepare cost analyses and report variances and profitability drivers.
• Analyze inventory valuation and support stock optimization.
• Collaborate with production, procurement, and finance on budgeting and forecasting.
• Contribute to month-end close with cost of goods sold reconciliation.
• Identify and implement cost-reduction initiatives.
• Support internal and external audits with cost records.
• Participate in cross-functional process improvement projects.

Skills

Cost analysis

Excel proficiency

Data analysis

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Problem solving

Multitasking

Interpersonal skills

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or Finance

CPA or CMA preferred

Tools

ERP systems

Job description

The Cost Accountant will provide expert analysis and insights into cost structures, inventory valuations, and profitability to support strategic decision-making and operational efficiency. This role will work closely with cross-functional teams, including production, procurement, and finance, to ensure accurate cost reporting and drive continuous improvement in cost management.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Cost Analysis: Prepare, analyze, and report on costs, identifying variances and opportunities for improvement. Evaluate manufacturing costs, production overhead, and other expense factors impacting profitability.
• Inventory Management: Conduct regular analysis of inventory, ensuring accurate valuation, proper costing methods, and compliance with company policies. Partner with supply chain and operations teams to support inventory control and optimize stock levels.
• Budgeting & Forecasting: Collaborate with finance and operational teams to develop annual budgets, quarterly forecasts, and long-range plans. Provide insights on cost trends and forecast potential financial impacts.
• Financial Reporting: Prepare month-end close entries related to cost accounting, including reconciliation of cost of goods sold, inventory valuation adjustments, and variances. Contribute to financial statement accuracy and ensure compliance with accounting principles.
• Cost Control Initiatives: Develop and implement cost control and reduction strategies. Work closely with management to identify and execute initiatives to improve profitability and drive cost efficiency.
• Project Support: Participate in cross-functional projects to improve financial controls, process efficiency, and data accuracy within the cost accounting function.
• Audit & Compliance: Support internal and external audits by providing cost accounting records, documentation, and analysis as required.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. CPA or CMA certification is preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a similar role within a manufacturing setting.
• Proven experience in POC accounting and government accounting preferred.
• Strong knowledge of cost accounting principles, standards, and software systems, including ERP systems. - Visibility a plus
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data analysis tools is required.
• Microsoft Office Proficiency: Strong skills in PowerPoint, Outlook, Word, and advanced skills in Excel.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Organizational Skills: Exceptional organizational and time-management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Attention to Detail: Strong attention to detail and accuracy in all aspects of work.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to anticipate needs and provide proactive support.
• Multitasking: Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact effectively with executives, staff, and visitors.
• Demonstrated ability to drive continuous improvement in financial processes. Proactive in identifying and implementing process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills required. Employees may be required to perform other job-related duties as assigned, consistent with business needs and applicable law.

Due to the nature of our work and applicable U.S. export control laws, this position requires International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) eligibility. Only individuals who qualify as a "U.S. person" as defined by ITAR (U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, refugees, or asylees), unless specified otherwise within job description, are eligible for employment.

Applied Aerospace & Defense ("AA&D") is committed to equal employment opportunity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Applicants who require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process due to disability, medical condition, or other protected reason may contact the Human Resources Department. Requests will be reviewed in accordance with applicable law.

Where required by law, the applicable pay range and a summary of benefits and other compensation for this position will be provided.