Sr. Cost Accountant

Dairy Farmers of America; Salt Lake City (UT); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Dairy Farmers of America seeks a proficient Cost Accountant to monitor and analyze production costs for multiple plants. You will lead cost studies, track variances, and prepare monthly standard costs and KPI reports. The role requires strong GAAP knowledge and ERP experience, preferably SAP, in a manufacturing setting.

In this position you will collaborate with site controllers, drive continuous improvement, and participate in audits while ensuring accuracy in cost data and financial reporting.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of cost accounting methods and GAAP principles.
• Ability to analyze and report on cost variances and KPI metrics.
• Experience leading audits and coordinating with site controllers.
• Experience in manufacturing cost environments and ERP systems.

Responsibilities

• Capture and classify cost data for products, projects, and departments.
• Analyze actual costs versus budgets and report variances.
• Maintain monthly standard costs and cost rolls for finished goods.
• Prepare cost studies for new items and cost change analyses.
• Coordinate internal and external audits and implement improvements.
• Support government reporting and KPI dashboards.
• Provide cost verifications for AP and cost audits.
• Lead or supervise junior accounting staff as needed.

Skills

Cost accounting methods

Financial analysis

Attention to detail

Written and verbal communication

GAAP

Education

Undergraduate degree in accounting/finance

CPA preferred

Tools

SAP

Excel

Job description

Provide cost accounting services, often for large, multiple, and/or complex plants or areas, by monitoring, analyzing and providing monthly cost updates. Conduct studies of material, labor, or other expenses to determine production costs, cost of sales, or other cost-related performance measures. Analyze changes in product design, raw materials, manufacturing methods, rate schedules, or services provided to determine effects on costs. Compare factors affecting prices and profitability of products or services. Examine any costs that seem contrary to past experience. Conduct complex cost audits. Provide cost-related data in support of business decisions or for use in financial reporting and seek continuous improvement in the analysis of costs across the assigned area. Possess in-depth knowledge in cost accounting and demonstrate high-level skills with extensive proficiency. Lead project work and/or processes. Function as a resource for colleagues with less experience.

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Capture and classify cost data to determine the cost associated with products/product lines, projects, or departments
• Analyze actual costs to historical or projected costs and report on variances
• Prepare, analyze, and track monthly inventory reserves, material savings, inventory forecast, and standard margin variances
• Monitor purchase price variances and provide monthly analysis of production variances
• Gather system reports and information from appropriate groups needed to complete governmental reporting and/or other reports (e.g., Market Administrator)
• Prepare timely and accurate monthly standard costs and perform monthly cost rolls for finished products manufactured and purchased along with cost change analysis
• Provide accounts payable cost verifications; conduct and analyze audits of costs and prepare reports
• Prepare cost studies for existing and new items
• Prepare monthly KPI metrics report
• Prepare estimates of new or proposed product costs
• Function as a primary resource for site controllers and other accountants related to cost accounting
• Lead the activities or coordinate efforts required for external and internal audits
• Recommend and implement cost accounting methods and procedures
• Seek continuous improvement in all areas related to cost accounting and financial reporting as assigned
• May instruct or assign work to accounting support employees engaged in cost or general accounting activities
• The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assigned as required
• Undergraduate degree in accounting, finance, or related curriculum (or equivalent combination of education and experience
• 5 to 8 years' experience in accounting, cost accounting, or finance
• SAP experience preferred
• Supervisor or team lead experience preferred
• Manufacturing experience preferred
• Certification and/or License - CPA preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• In-depth knowledge of cost accounting methods
• Able to apply generally accepted accounting principles and use and knowledge of accounting, manufacturing and spreadsheet software (SAP or equivalent ERP software)
• Able to apply financial acumen skills: strong understanding of the financial framework of the company and financial processes and metrics used to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the company
• Able to provide accurate, thorough and timely analyses
• Able to apply a strong attention to detail
• Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
• Able to work collaboratively with all departments, management levels within the company, and external stakeholders
• Able to work independently on projects; able to take ownership for assigned work and see through to completion
• Able to multi-task and problem solve
• Must be able to read, write and speak English

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans