Cost Accountant - Full-time

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 320,000 - 520,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Annual leave

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Cost Accountant for an on-site role in Vereeniging, Gauteng. You will develop costing systems, analyze manufacturing costs, and support budgets to drive efficiency and profitability.

The ideal candidate has a bachelor's degree in accounting/finance, 4–6 years cost accounting experience in manufacturing, and may hold CIMA/ACCA. Strong ERP and Excel skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• CIMA or ACCA qualifications desirable.
• 4–6 years cost accounting experience in manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of costing principles and ERP systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain cost accounting systems.
• Analyze manufacturing costs: materials, labor, overhead.
• Perform variance analysis against standards.
• Assist budgeting and forecasts for manufacturing.
• Value inventory and ensure records accuracy.
• Prepare cost reports for management review.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the industrial manufacturing sector, is actively searching for a skilled Cost Accountant to bolster their finance team. This is a critical, on-site role that demands hands‑on involvement in cost analysis, inventory valuation, and budgeting to drive operational efficiency and profitability. The Cost Accountant will be instrumental in developing and maintaining costing systems, analyzing variances, and providing vital financial insights to support management decisions. We are seeking a detail-oriented and analytical professional with a strong understanding of manufacturing processes and cost accounting principles. This position offers a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to make a significant impact within a leading industrial organization. The role is based in Vereeniging, Gauteng, ZA , and requires a committed individual ready to work within the company's facilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain cost accounting systems and procedures.
• Analyze manufacturing costs, including direct materials, direct labor, and overhead.
• Conduct variance analysis and investigate deviations from standard costs.
• Assist in the preparation of the annual budget and periodic forecasts for manufacturing operations.
• Perform inventory valuation and ensure accuracy of inventory records.
• Analyze product profitability and identify areas for cost reduction.
• Collaborate with production and engineering teams to gather cost data and improve processes.
• Prepare reports on cost performance for management review.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of costing methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with relevant accounting standards and company policies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Professional qualification such as CIMA or ACCA is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 4-6 years of experience in cost accounting, preferably within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of cost accounting principles, methods, and practices.
• Proficiency in cost accounting software, ERP systems, and advanced Excel skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with various departments.
• Meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in an on-site setting.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Opportunity to work within a leading industrial manufacturing company.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement fund.
• Generous annual leave and other company-provided perks.
• Professional development and training opportunities to enhance skills.
• Engaging work environment in Vereeniging, Gauteng, ZA .
• Be part of a team dedicated to operational excellence.
• Potential for career advancement within the organization.