Cost Analyst - Manufacturing Operations

Position Summary

The Cost Analyst – Manufacturing Operations partners closely with Plant Operations leadership to provide accounting, cost analysis, and performance monitoring that support the plant’s operational and financial objectives. This role plays a key part in driving cost transparency, identifying risks and opportunities, and enabling informed, data‑driven decisions across manufacturing operations. This is an on‑site position based out of Lancaster, TX.

• Own site-level P&Ls and balance sheets, including analysis of cost absorption, labor, overhead, scrap, and material/usage variances
• Lead monthly analysis and review of plant site operations including production output, productivity, total labor efficiency, total cost per earned hour, manufacturing & material cost variances, etc.
• Monitor actual spend vs Annual Operating Plan (AOP) and forecast, proactively identifying risks and variances
• Support the processes for monthly forecast, annual operating plan (AOP), and plant performance to ensure alignment with business objectives
• Partner with plant leadership to identify, quantify, and execute cost reduction initiatives
• Act as finance lead for recurring plant staff meetings
• Assist with month‑end close activities and partner with plant management to explain results, trends, and recommend actions
• Partner cross‑functionally to support build‑up of annual standard cost calculations
• Analyze critical accounts and key performance indicators to provide insights to plant management & operations controller
• Develop and maintain financial reporting and analytical tools to assist in operations
• Support the yearly cost roll process
• Evaluate and recommend changes in the company’s cost structure
• Assist in monitoring, performing, and testing of Internal Controls
• Support ad‑hoc projects and analyses as needed

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance or related field
• 3 years of experience in cost accounting
• Prior experience in a manufacturing environment
• Prior experience with close processes
• Advanced Excel skills

• CPA or MBA

• Excellent problem solving, issue identification, and analytical skills
• Critical thinker who enjoys working as part of collaborative team
• Ability to manage multiple projects of differing scale, complexity, and duration
• Desire and willingness to learn new tools, techniques, concepts, and methodologies
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present financial concepts to non‑finance partners
• Solid understanding of manufacturing cost accounting principles, including standard costing, labor and overhead analysis, material usage variances, and cost roll‑ups

Location:

Lancaster, TX
Hiring Range: $62,600.00 - $98,340.00 USD

Brass Craft is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities. The Company makes employment decisions based on merit and prohibits discrimination on any protected basis. Brass Craft is an E‑Verify employer.