Cost Accountant– Standard Costing Specialist

Overview: Job Title: Cost Accountant – Standard Costing Specialist Type: Contractor – 12 Months Location: On-Site Reporting to: Controller Job Summary: We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Cost Accountant to lead the implementation and maintenance of standard costing practices at our manufacturing facility. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in developing, analyzing, and managing standard cost systems in a production environment, ensuring accurate product costing, supporting operational efficiency, and contributing to strategic financial decisions. Responsibilities: * Lead the development and implementation of standard costs for materials, labor, and overhead across all manufacturing operations. * Collaborate with operations, engineering, and procurement to analyze BOMs, routings, labor, and overhead drivers to establish accurate cost standards. * Conduct time studies in collaboration with production and engineering teams to establish accurate labor standards and production rates. * Establish standard costs using the gross margin method, especially for new or customized products, by working backward from target pricing and desired margin levels. * Develop a process to monitor and report on cost variances (material, labor, and overhead), including root cause analysis and follow-up with relevant departments. * Develop a process for the annual standard cost roll up, including updates for new products, process changes, and inflationary factors. * Provide cost modeling and scenario analysis to support pricing, capital investments, and strategic planning. * Ensure compliance with company policies, internal controls, and SOX requirements (if applicable) Qualifications/Experience required: * Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field. * Minimum of 3–5 years of cost accounting experience in a manufacturing environment, with proven experience setting up standard costs. * Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, BOMs, routings, and cost allocation methodologies. * Proficiency with ERP systems (e.g., Microsoft D365, SAP, Oracle) and advanced Excel skills. * Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills. * Ability to work cross-functionally and manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment. Preferred Skills: * Experience with ERP implementations or cost reengineering projects. Time Commitment: This is a temporary assignment for the duration of the ERP implementation, expected to last 12 months. Flexibility may be required during key phases of the project such as testing and go-live