REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS:

This position reports directly to the Director of Operations Finance. This position will work with the operations team and partner with the plant manager.

PRINCIPAL OBJECTIVE:

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Cost Accountant to join our accounting team. The Cost Accountant will play a critical role in tracking and analyzing the costs associated with production. This includes material costs, labor costs, overhead, and other production-related expenses. The ideal candidate will have experience applying cost accounting principles in a manufacturing environment and the ability and desire to collaborate with operations to drive cost-efficiency and profitability.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Cost Management: Perform monthly cost roles and validate costing program is reflecting the correct values.
• Cost Reporting: Generate detailed cost reports for management, including gross margin analysis by product category and species.
• Variance Analysis: Investigate and report discrepancies/variances including but not limited to purchase price, inventory adjustments, standard cost adjustments, and moving average price changes.
• Budgeting and Forecasting: Prepare costing budgets and forecasts based on historical data/trends and future sale/operation plans.
• Inventory Management: Support the plant inventory team in ensuring the accuracy of raw materials, work-in-progress, and finished goods inventory through cycle counting and physical inventories. Provide detailed analysis of variances and identify root causes for corrective action.
• Compliance & Internal Controls: Ensure compliance with internal accounting policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements. Help maintain strong internal controls for cost tracking and reporting processes.
• Process Improvements: Work with the operations team to improve workflows and streamline operational procedures.
• Perform other work-related duties as requested or required

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Be able to succeed within and adhere to the culture of the Furst-McNess Company.
• Ability to perform essential job functions with or without accommodation.
• Bachelor's degree or higher in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of cost accounting experience in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong knowledge of cost accounting principles, production processes, and financial reporting.
• Proficiency with accounting software (ERP, SAP preferred) and advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, etc.)
• Experience with inventory management systems.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for cost savings.
• Working knowledge of computers and Microsoft Office products.
• Proficient in the use of all office equipment.
• Ability to read, write and speak English.
• Good communication skills, both oral and written, and can utilize these skills within all levels of the Company as well as externally. Exceptional writing skills required.
• Ability to provide outstanding customer service to all associates and management staff, showing a sense of urgency relative to solving problems, performing assigned tasks, employee concerns, etc.
• Ability to effectively organize work schedules and manage multiple assignments by utilizing time management skills to ensure day-to-day assignments and special projects are completed within guidelines agreed upon.
• Ability to work as an effective team member within the Finance department and company. Willingness to pitch in and do work that may not be a specific part of the job description for the overall good of the department and company.
• Ability to be flexible and be willing to change along with recommending changes that can enhance our ability to serve both internal and external customers more effectively and in a professional manner. Respect other people's points of view and be able to take constructive criticism.
• Ability to travel, either by car or by commercial plane, including overnight stays, as business dictates. Must, at all times, possess a valid driver's license and maintain a good driving record (within guidelines set forth in company vehicle policy)