Cost Accountant

Description

We are looking for an experienced Senior Cost Accountant to join our team in California. This position is responsible for strengthening cost accounting practices, supporting accurate financial reporting, and providing insight into inventory, cost of sales, and margin performance. The role also offers the opportunity to guide entry-level team members, improve accounting processes, and partner with operations in a manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities:

- Manage month-end and quarter-end accounting activities tied to inventory, cost of sales, and revenue-related transactions, ensuring timely and accurate close results.

- Prepare journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules to maintain reliable financial records and compliance with internal policies and applicable standards.

- Review gross margin performance and develop analyses that highlight cost trends, variances, and opportunities to improve reporting accuracy.

- Lead inventory-related accounting tasks, including audit support, cycle count review, and evaluation of inventory balances within a manufacturing setting.

- Supervise and mentor a small team of cost accounting and estimating professionals, helping build capability in government-focused cost accounting practices.

- Perform detailed variance analysis on production and standard costs to identify root causes and support corrective actions with cross-functional partners.

- Assist with internal and external audit requests by preparing documentation, responding to inquiries, and supporting compliance-focused reviews.

- Recommend and implement process enhancements that improve efficiency, strengthen internal controls, and support a high-performing finance organization.

Requirements - Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.

- 7-10 years of progressive experience in cost accounting, including significant work in a manufacturing environment.

- At least 5 years of experience in aerospace, defense, or government contracting settings is preferred.

- Strong knowledge of cost accounting methods, standard costing, inventory accounting, and financial analysis.

- Experience leading close activities and producing accurate journal entries, reconciliations, and margin reporting.

- Proficiency with Oracle and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.

- Solid understanding of internal controls, compliance expectations, and audit support requirements.

- Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills with the ability to work effectively across office and manufacturing teams.

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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