Cost Accountant

At Trident Maritime Systems – Heavy Equipment Group
, we don’t just build systems—we build careers. As a leader in the marine and defense industry, we’re looking for innovative, forward-thinking professionals who are ready to take on complex challenges and deliver real-world solutions.

We are seeking a Cost Accountant to work on-site at our Kingsford, MI location.

The Cost Accountant will be responsible for ensuring the accuracy, integrity, and effectiveness of our cost accounting and inventory management processes. This role provides critical financial analysis and operational insights to support profitability, improve decision-making, and maintain compliance with statutory, regulatory, and audit requirements. The Cost Accountant partners closely with Finance, Operations, and IT to drive process improvements and enhance ERP system accuracy and reporting capabilities.

Inventory Management & Cost Control

• Lead and manage monthly physical inventory counts, cycle count programs, and excess and obsolete inventory reserve analyses.
• Coordinate and oversee annual physical inventory audits, serving as the primary scheduler and on-site audit liaison.
• Maintain and update standard cost systems, including raw materials, direct labor, and manufacturing overhead rates.
• Ensure inventory valuation accuracy and compliance with company policies and accounting standards.

Financial Analysis & Reporting

• Analyze and report daily, weekly, and monthly manufacturing variances, including purchase price variances (PPV), labor efficiency, and scrap variances.
• Partner with Operations and leadership teams to evaluate product-line profitability, identify margin erosion risks, and support pricing strategy decisions.
• Prepare and analyze financial reports to identify trends, cost drivers, and opportunities for operational improvement.

Accounting & Compliance

• Lead cost accounting month-end close activities, including journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial statement analysis.
• Support Percentage of Completion (POC) and Estimate at Completion (EAC) accounting activities in collaboration with the Director of Finance and Controller, Defense Programs.
• Assist with annual budgeting and forecasting processes as needed.
• Support external and government audits, including BDO, DCAA, and DCMA reviews.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, departmental procedures, ISO 9001 requirements, and applicable government regulations.

Process Improvement & Systems Support

• Collaborate with IT and Operations to improve ERP functionality, automate workflows, and enhance data accuracy and reporting efficiency.
• Recommend and implement process improvements that strengthen internal controls and operational performance.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• 3–5 years of cost accounting experience within a manufacturing environment.
• Experience managing inventory accounting and inventory control processes.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and financial reporting skills.
• Advanced proficiency with ERP systems and Microsoft Excel.
• Experience with ERP platforms such as SAP, Oracle, Net Suite, Aptean, or Microsoft Dynamics is a plus
• Experience in a job shop, manufacturing, or defense contracting environment is preferred
• Familiarity with government contract accounting and audit requirements is preferred

• Ability to travel periodically between Wisconsin and Michigan facilities.

• Position requires extended periods of sitting and computer use.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes competitive medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid time off, 401(k) with company match, tuition reimbursement and additional perks designed to support your well-being and professional growth. Come join our winning Team!