Cost Accounting Manager

Job Overview

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus  ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL.

Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus‑like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains. It offers a work environment unlike any other, inspiring passion, fostering innovation, building collaboration, and rewarding excellence.

We are seeking a motivated and analytical individual that can work well, both independently and in a team environment, to lead the Cost Accounting Group (CAG) in the Enterprise Accounting Services Section of the Accounting and Contracts Division. The position requires knowledge of the theory and practice of recording, classifying, examining, and analyzing costs across various projects and cost centers to guarantee compliance with the prime contract, regulatory provisions, and to maintain the integrity of JPL's financials.

• Lead and manage project, property, manufacturing work‑in‑process and service center accounting.
• Ensure the performance and productivity of employees under your supervision.
• Build and maintain a high‑performance team, offering direction to meet organizational objectives.
• Ensure employees are aware of and comply with Laboratory and Institutional policies, procedures, regulatory and prime contract requirements.
• Maintain a safe and focused environment.
• Hire, develop and retain a diverse, highly skilled staff, providing career coaching and personal growth opportunities.
• Cultivate effective working relationships with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Maintain adequate and effective internal controls to safeguard and properly record financial transactions.
• Develop and implement strategic goals for the Group, promoting continuous improvement, best practices, and efficiency in cost accounting and reporting operations.
• Employ industry best practices to ensure success and compliance with the areas of responsibility.
• Support internal and external audits and reviews, regularly assessing and enhancing processes to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting or a similar discipline with a minimum of 9 years of related experience;
  Master’s degree with a minimum of 7 years of related experience; or PhD with a minimum of 5 years of related experience. Minimum of 2 years of lead experience.
• Significant expertise in project cost accounting, cost allocations, integrated financial management systems and automated project cost systems.
• Experience with ERP systems.
• Demonstrated experience in leading work groups and teams.
• Extensive understanding and wide application of advanced principles, theories, and concepts in the accounting field, contributing to the development of new theories and methods.
• Demonstrated ability to solve complex business system issues.
• Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong desire to manage in an organization dedicated to providing customer‑focused services.

• Wide‑ranging experience and advanced knowledge in Federal government requirements, including FAR, NASA FAR, Cost Accounting Standards, and DCAA Guidelines.
• Complete knowledge of Laboratory, NASA, and government regulations across a range of applications.
• Expertise in Accounting Theory within the organization.
• MBA or equivalent with 10 years of progressive experience, including three years supervising a project/cost accounting organization.
• Experience resolving internal and external audit findings.
• Experience dealing with post‑implementation system and business process improvement issues.

JPL offers a wide range of benefits and perks, from traditional health, dental, vision, and retirement plans to flexible schedules, rideshare, childcare, and paid time off.…