Senior Cost Analyst

Our client, a global advanced manufacturing organization is seeking a Senior Cost Analyst to join its Operations Finance team. Reporting to the Director of Operations Finance, this role plays a key part in supporting manufacturing cost integrity, inventory valuation, financial reporting, and internal controls across production operations.

• Own and manage the cost accounting and cost collection processes for manufacturing operations, including process definition, implementation, and ongoing optimization
• Establish and maintain standard costing models for manufacturing operations, including materials, labor, overhead, outside processing, and yield assumptions
• Oversee inventory valuation and controls, including physical inventory counts and cycle count programs across internal and external manufacturing sites
• Execute monthly financial close activities, including WIP valuation, inventory reconciliation, variance analysis, reserves, and production reporting
• Analyze and support warranty reserves and related financial exposure assessments
• Ensure compliance with internal control frameworks (SOX), including cycle counts, WIP audits, transaction integrity, and related controls; identify and remediate control gaps as needed
• Prepare and deliver management reporting and financial analysis, including revenue, cost, margin, and variance reporting
• Develop and enhance financial models and analytical tools to support operational decision-making and profitability improvement
• Investigate and analyze manufacturing variances, identifying root causes and opportunities for cost reduction
• Utilize ERP reporting tools (e.g., SAP or similar systems) for standard and ad‑hoc financial analysis
• Support forecasting activities, including monthly updates of actuals versus forecast and cost projections
• Partner with cross‑functional teams to support ERP system implementation and optimization initiatives
• Continuously identify and drive process improvements in reporting, controls, and operational efficiency
• Provide ad‑hoc financial analysis and support strategic decision‑making across the business

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Economics, or related field
• 8–10+ years of progressive experience in manufacturing cost accounting or operations finance
• Strong knowledge of process manufacturing environments, standard costing, and ERP systems
• Experience with inventory accounting, WIP valuation, and manufacturing variance analysis
• Proficiency with ERP systems (SAP or similar) and advanced Excel skills
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a fast‑paced environment
• Comfortable interacting with all levels of the organization, including senior leadership
• High attention to detail with a strong sense of ownership and accountability
• Some regional travel may be required to support other manufacturing locations