Cost Accounting Manager

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced Cost Accounting Manager to lead core accounting operations and cost oversight for a manufacturing environment in Vista, California. This role will guide the financial close cycle, maintain accurate inventory and standard costing practices, and deliver clear reporting that supports business decisions. The position also partners closely with operational and corporate stakeholders to strengthen controls, improve processes, and provide insight into financial performance.

Responsibilities:
• Lead the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close activities, ensuring financial results are complete, accurate, and delivered on schedule.
• Review journal entries, reconciliations, and account fluctuation analyses to maintain reliable financial records and strong balance sheet support.
• Oversee full absorption cost accounting, including inventory valuation, standard cost maintenance, and analysis of material, labor, and overhead variances.
• Manage inventory reconciliation activities by investigating differences between operational records, system data, and financial reporting, and drive timely resolution.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and operations teams to strengthen inventory controls, support physical counts, and evaluate key cost drivers affecting production.
• Prepare financial statements, forecasts, budgets, and reporting packages for leadership and corporate consolidation requirements.
• Establish and maintain internal controls related to revenue recognition, accruals, fixed assets, leases, intercompany activity, and manufacturing accounting processes.
• Support internal and external audit requests, regulatory reporting needs, and documentation requirements for divisional entities.
• Serve as a trusted finance partner to divisional leadership by communicating financial results, highlighting risks, and supporting informed decision-making.
• Identify and implement process and system improvements, including support for ERP-related enhancements, accounting policy alignment, and the development of team members.• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting.
• 6–10+ years of progressive accounting experience with increasing responsibility.
• Strong background in financial close activities, balance sheet management, and general accounting controls.
• Deep expertise in cost accounting within a manufacturing setting, including inventory, standard costing, and variance analysis.
• Hands-on experience using Siteline or Infor ERP systems in daily accounting operations.
• Demonstrated ability to work cross-functionally with operations, finance, and corporate teams.
• Experience supporting or leading ERP implementations or related system enhancements.
• Certification such as CPA, CMA, or a comparable credential is preferred.