Cost Accountant

Job DetailsJob Location: Lodi, WI - Lodi, WI 53555Job Shift: 1st shiftLOCATION: Lodi, WI                                                           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) Qualifications