Cost Accountant

**Job Title: Cost Accountant Job Location: Manassas, VA Job Duration: 6 Months (Temp-to-Hire) Schedule: Onsite, Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM** Job Summary We are seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Cost Accountant to support daily manufacturing finance operations at our production facility. This role will work closely with the Senior Manager of Finance to oversee cost accounting functions, inventory accuracy, standard costing, and month-end close activities. The ideal candidate will have strong manufacturing accounting experience, advanced ERP knowledge, and excellent analytical skills. Key Responsibilities Lead and monitor the Work Order closure process to ensure timely and accurate completion Perform all month-end cost accounting activities, including journal entries, reconciliations, and variance analysis Review and enter daily production and consumption records into the ERP system Verify monthly raw material, WIP, and finished goods inventory cycle counts for accuracy and compliance Maintain and audit cycle count documentation to ensure completeness and adherence to inventory control procedures Monitor inventory transactions and manage documentation approvals, tracking, and filing processes Analyze manufacturing variances and investigate discrepancies in product costing, routings, and bills of materials (BOMs) Maintain and update standard costs for raw materials and intermediate items Ensure accuracy of item attributes and costing structures that impact financial reporting and accounting flows Assist with annual budgeting activities, including development of standard cost rates Prepare monthly and quarterly financial reports and support ad hoc financial analysis as needed Collaborate cross-functionally with Operations, Production, and Supply Chain teams to improve cost visibility and inventory accuracy Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field 3–5 years of experience in Cost Accounting within a manufacturing environment Strong understanding of inventory accounting, standard costing, and manufacturing variances Advanced proficiency with ERP systems; experience with Sage or JD Edwards (JDE) preferred Advanced Microsoft Excel skills including Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, and formulas Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills Excellent communication and documentation abilities Physical Requirements Ability to sit, stand, and walk regularly throughout the workday Occasionally lift up to 15 pounds as needed