Strategic Cost Accountant - Product Costing Excellence

Liham Consulting Pty; Durban; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Pension fund

On-site East London

Job summary

Our client is seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Cost Accountant to join their finance department in East London. This role is crucial for analyzing and managing the company's production costs, providing insights that drive operational efficiency and profitability.

You will develop cost accounting systems, perform variance analysis, inventory valuation, and budgeting support, collaborating with production and operations teams to identify cost-saving opportunities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance; CIMA desirable.
• 3–5 years in cost accounting, preferably manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of cost accounting principles.
• Proficient in accounting software and advanced Excel.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain cost accounting systems and methodologies.
• Analyze manufacturing costs, including direct materials, direct labor, and overhead.
• Perform variance analysis, investigate discrepancies, and recommend corrective actions.
• Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and periodic cost forecasts.
• Value inventory according to accounting standards and support inventory management.
• Collaborate with production and operations teams to identify cost-saving opportunities.

Skills

Cost accounting

Advanced Excel

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance

CIMA certification desirable

Tools

Accounting software

Excel

Job description

Cost Accountant

Our client is seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Cost Accountant to join their finance department in East London. This role is crucial for analyzing and managing the company's production costs, providing insights that drive operational efficiency and profitability. You will be involved in developing cost accounting systems, variance analysis, inventory valuation, and budgeting support. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of manufacturing processes and cost control principles, with the ability to translate complex cost data into actionable business recommendations. This position offers an excellent opportunity to impact operational decisions directly.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain cost accounting systems and methodologies.
• Analyze manufacturing costs, including direct materials, direct labor, and overhead.
• Perform variance analysis, investigate discrepancies, and recommend corrective actions.
• Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and periodic cost forecasts.
• Value inventory according to accounting standards and support inventory management.
• Collaborate with production and operations teams to identify cost-saving opportunities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance; a professional qualification like CIMA is highly desirable.
• 3-5 years of experience in cost accounting, preferably within a manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of cost accounting principles and practices.
• Proficiency in accounting software and advanced Excel skills for data analysis.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication abilities.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for annual bonuses.
• Full-time, on-site role located in East London.
• Comprehensive medical aid plan.
• Pension fund membership.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment focused on operational excellence.