Sr. Cost Accountant

Description We are looking for an experienced Sr. Cost Accountant to support key accounting operations for a manufacturing environment in Albany, New York. This contract opportunity is ideal for a detail-oriented candidate who can manage cost accounting activities, oversee month-end close, and maintain accurate financial records across inventory, payables, receivables, and the general ledger.

The right candidate will bring strong analytical judgment, attention to detail, and the ability to keep reporting timely and reliable.

Responsibilities:

- Lead manufacturing cost accounting activities, including standard cost maintenance, cost analysis, inventory valuation, and preparation of recurring cost reports.

- Take ownership of the month-end close process by preparing journal entries, recording accruals, completing account reconciliations, and assembling supporting schedules.

- Maintain the general ledger by posting accounting activity, reviewing balances for accuracy, and resolving discrepancies to preserve data integrity.

- Manage accounts payable tasks such as reviewing invoices, processing payments, and coordinating with vendors to address billing questions.

- Oversee accounts receivable functions by applying customer payments, monitoring outstanding balances, and following up on aging items as needed.

- Analyze cost variances and operational results to identify trends, explain fluctuations, and support informed financial decisions.

- Partner with internal stakeholders to ensure inventory and transactional data are recorded accurately and aligned with reporting requirements. Requirements - 3+ years of accounting experience with a strong focus on manufacturing cost accounting.

- Hands-on knowledge of standard costing, variance review, inventory valuation, and cost reporting.

- Demonstrated experience managing a full month-end close process, including journal entries, accruals, and reconciliations.

- Solid understanding of general ledger accounting and account maintenance.

- Practical experience with accounts payable and accounts receivable processing.

- Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with close attention to detail.

- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment while meeting deadlines and maintaining accuracy.

Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.

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All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit  for more information.

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