Strategic Cost Analyst – Manufacturing & Inventory

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

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.