Senior Cost Accountant

Key Responsibilities:

1. Cost Estimation and Analysis:

• Lead the preparation and analysis of cost estimates for raw materials, direct labor, manufacturing overhead, and other production-related costs.
• Conduct in-depth cost breakdowns for solar panel production, photovoltaic cells, inverters, batteries, and other solar components.
• Monitor and analyze cost variances, comparing standard costs to actual costs, and provide actionable recommendations for cost optimization.

2. Budgeting, Forecasting, and Reporting:

• Develop and maintain detailed cost models for new product introductions, production processes, and capital projects.
• Collaborate with senior management and department heads to prepare accurate and comprehensive annual budgets and financial forecasts.
• Provide regular and ad hoc cost performance reports, highlighting deviations, risks, and opportunities for cost control.
• Ensure timely, accurate, and transparent reporting of cost-related data, adhering to corporate reporting schedules.

3. Inventory and Material Cost Management:

• Partner with the procurement and inventory management teams to ensure accurate tracking of inventory movements and proper cost allocation for materials, supplies, and finished goods.
• Perform monthly inventory reconciliations, ensuring alignment between physical inventory and financial records.
• Evaluate the impact of raw material costs on production, identify cost-saving opportunities, and drive inventory optimization strategies.

4. Cost Control and Process Improvement:

• Implement and enforce cost control mechanisms, ensuring adherence to budgets and minimizing waste and inefficiency across manufacturing operations.
• Identify opportunities for cost reduction and operational improvements, providing strategic input to enhance production efficiency and profitability.
• Conduct regular reviews of manufacturing processes to ensure optimal use of resources and recommend improvements in cost structures.

5. Cross-functional Collaboration:

• Work closely with production, procurement, and finance teams to ensure the alignment of cost objectives with company goals.
• Provide cost analysis and pricing support for the sales, procurement, and supply chain teams, enabling data-driven decision-making.
• Collaborate with the engineering and production departments to evaluate and influence product design, manufacturing processes, and cost structure improvements.

6. Supervision and Leadership:

• Lead and manage the costing team, providing direction, mentoring, and support to junior staff.
• Oversee daily operations of the costing department, ensuring high-quality, efficient, and compliant processes.
• Conduct performance evaluations, deliver constructive feedback, and promote continuous professional development within the team.

Qualifications:

Educational Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Professional certifications such as CMA (Certified Management Accountant), CPA (Certified Public Accountant), or similar qualifications are preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in costing, accounting, or financial analysis, with at least 3 years in a supervisory role.
• Experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably within the solar or renewable energy sector, is highly desirable.
• Proven track record of cost management, budget preparation, and financial reporting.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strong proficiency in Standard cost accounting methodologies, financial reporting, and variance analysis.
• Excellent knowledge of manufacturing processes, cost allocation, and inventory management.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel (e.g., pivot tables, VLOOKUP, financial modeling) and experience with ERP systems such as Oracle.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on data accuracy and actionable insights.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented with a high level of integrity and accuracy in all financial activities.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines in a dynamic work environment.

Working Conditions:

• Full-time position, based in Tolleson AZ.