Cost Accounting Manager

About the role:

Situated in El Monte, California, this well-established manufacturing facility has been a vital part of the regions industrial landscape for decades. Specializing in high-volume production, the plant is known for its consistent output, quality standards, and efficient operations. It sources ingredients and materials from local suppliers, supporting regional agriculture and minimizing transportation impact.

The facility is equipped with advanced processing lines and adheres to rigorous safety and quality protocols. Innovation is a core focus, with ongoing product development and testing to meet evolving market demands. A loyal and experienced workforce many with decades of service contributes to the plants reputation for reliability and craftsmanship.

Serving a broad distribution network, the operation continues to play a key role in supplying consumer goods across the western United States, maintaining a legacy of excellence and adaptability in a competitive market.

Requirements:

• A bachelors degree in Accounting or Finance is required
• A graduate-level degree in Accounting or Finance is strongly preferred
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting experience, including strong cost accounting experience
• Prior experience in manufacturing or supply chain environments is preferred
• Proficiency in QuickBooks Enterprise is essential
• Deep knowledge of GAAP, financial reporting standards, and internal control frameworks
• Exceptional communication, organizational, and analytical abilities

Day to Day Responsibilities:

The Cost Accounting Manager will play a key role in overseeing and improving cost accounting functions within a manufacturing environment. This role is responsible for maintaining accurate cost records, analyzing manufacturing and operational costs, supporting budgeting and forecasting processes, and ensuring compliance with financial and accounting standards. The Cost Accounting Manager will collaborate closely with operations, supply chain, and senior leadership to provide insights that drive efficiency, profitability, and continuous improvement.

Cost Accounting & Financial Analysis

• Manage and maintain standard costing, inventory valuation, and variance analysis.
• Analyze production costs, labor efficiency, material usage, and overhead absorption.
• Support monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes by preparing accurate cost-related journal entries and reconciliations.
• Prepare and present cost reports, performance metrics, and profitability analyses to management.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Planning

• Partner with operations and finance teams to develop annual budgets and rolling forecasts.
• Provide cost modeling and scenario analysis to support strategic decision-making.
• Monitor actual performance against budget and forecasts, highlighting key trends and variances.

Accounting Operations & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with GAAP, company policies, and internal controls.
• Assist with external audits and support tax and corporate reporting requirements as needed.
• Collaborate with accounts payable, accounts receivable, and general ledger teams to ensure accuracy of financial data.

Systems & Process Improvement

• Identify and implement opportunities to streamline cost accounting processes and reporting.
• Leverage ERP/accounting systems to enhance data accuracy and efficiency; familiarity with Sage is strongly preferred.
• Partner with operations to integrate financial workflows with manufacturing systems.