Cost Accountant

Accentuate Staffing is seeking a Cost Accountant for our client in Fuquay Varina, NC 27526. The Cost Accountant is responsible for managing and analyzing all aspects of manufacturing cost accounting, general ledger accuracy, and environmental reporting at the plant level. The successful candidate will combine strong accounting expertise with the ability to lead cross-functional initiatives, improve cost visibility, and support environmental compliance and reporting efforts.

Responsibilities:

Cost Accounting & Analysis:

• Maintain and update the standard cost system, ensuring accuracy in materials, labor, and overhead rates.
• Analyze production costs and variances, identifying trends and opportunities for cost reduction.
• Collaborate with production and engineering teams to evaluate new materials, processes, and efficiency projects.
• Support annual budgeting and standard cost roll processes.
• Monitor inventory valuation and perform reconciliations between perpetual and general ledger balances.
• Provide management with actionable insights into product margins, waste, and manufacturing performance.

General Ledger & Financial Reporting:

• Prepare and post journal entries related to manufacturing operations, inventory, and cost allocations.
• Ensure the integrity of plant-level general ledger accounts through monthly reconciliations.
• Lead month-end and year-end closing activities for manufacturing and cost-related accounts.
• Support internal and external audits with detailed documentation and analysis.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and corporate financial policies.

Environmental Reporting & Sustainability:

• Partner with the Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) team to collect, analyze, and report environmental data, including paper waste, ink usage, energy consumption, and emissions.
• Prepare required environmental compliance and sustainability reports for corporate and regulatory bodies.
• Track costs related to environmental programs, recycling initiatives, and energy efficiency projects.
• Assist in developing key performance indicators (KPIs) for environmental and sustainability performance.

Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required; MBA or CMA preferred.
• 3+ years of cost accounting experience in a manufacturing setting
• Experience with environmental or sustainability reporting preferred.
• Proficient in ERP systems (AS400, JDE Preferred).
• Advanced Excel and data analysis skills.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint (Power BI Preferred)
• Strong understanding of cost accounting principles, GAAP, and manufacturing processes.
• Lean Manufacturing Skills preferred.
• Strong leadership and communication skills with the ability to influence across departments.
• Analytical thinker with excellent problem-solving skills.
• Detail-oriented, proactive, and able to manage multiple priorities.