This is a full-time hourly position in Manteno, IL that reports to Controller. As the Cost Accountant, you will oversee the financial operations at the plant level. Reporting directly to the Plant Controller, you will focus on cost management, operational efficiency, and financial analysis related to manufacturing. Your role is crucial in driving plant-level financial performance and ensuring alignment with the overall corporate financial strategy.

· Plant-Level Financial Planning and Analysis   (FP&A):

• Lead the financial planning, budgeting, and   forecasting processes at the plant level.
• Monitor plant performance metrics, prepare   variance analysis, and provide recommendations to improve profitability.
• Analyze production costs, labor efficiency,   material usage, and overheads to identify opportunities for cost reduction.

· Cost Accounting:

• Ensure accurate and timely cost accounting,   including product costing, variance reporting, and cost allocation.
• Analyze manufacturing variances such as   material usage variance, labor variance, and overhead variance.
• Collaborate with operations to review bills of   materials (BOMs) and standard costs to ensure accuracy.

· Operational Efficiency:

• Work closely with plant management to drive   cost savings initiatives and improve overall operational efficiency.
• Participate in continuous improvement projects   (Lean, Six Sigma) to enhance productivity and reduce waste.
• Monitor inventory levels and perform regular   inventory audits to ensure accurate financial reporting.

· Financial Reporting:

• Prepare and present monthly, quarterly, and   annual financial statements for the plant in accordance with corporate   policies and GAAP/IFRS standards.
• Ensure alignment with corporate reporting   requirements, providing accurate and timely data to the Plant Controller and   corporate finance team.
• Support external and internal audits, ensuring   compliance with financial policies and controls.

· Capex and Investment Management:

• Assist in evaluating capital expenditure   (Capex) projects, ensuring alignment with financial goals and operational   needs.
• Conduct return on investment (ROI) analysis   for plant investments and provide financial justification for new projects.

· Budgeting and Forecasting:

• Lead the preparation of the plant’s annual   budget and long-term financial forecasts.
• Track performance against budget, identifying   any risks or opportunities, and communicating insights to the Plant   Controller.

· Internal Controls and Compliance:

• Ensure proper internal controls are in place   at the plant level to safeguard assets and prevent fraud or mismanagement.
• Support the implementation and enforcement of   company-wide financial policies and procedures.

· Collaboration with Cross-Functional Teams:

• Partner with operations, supply chain,   procurement, and engineering teams to ensure financial objectives are   integrated with business strategies.
• Provide financial insights and support   decision-making related to production planning, capacity utilization, and   supply chain optimization.

· Ad-Hoc Reporting and Analysis:

• Provide financial analysis on specific   business issues, such as pricing strategies, product profitability, and   make-versus-buy decisions.
• Support the Plant Controller with special   projects, including financial modeling and analysis for strategic plant   initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned. 

 REQUIRED: 

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, Accounting.
• 5+ years of experience in finance, accounting, or cost management, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong understanding of cost accounting, manufacturing processes, and operational metrics.
• Proficient in financial software (ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, etc.) and advanced Excel skills.
• Solid knowledge of financial reporting standards (GAAP/IFRS) and internal control frameworks.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Detail-Oriented: High attention to detail in managing complex cost structures and financial reporting.
• Analytical: Ability to analyze financial data and translate it into actionable insights for plant management.
• Collaborative: Ability to work cross-functionally and build strong relationships with plant operations teams.
• Proactive: Eager to identify opportunities for process improvement and cost reduction.
• Adaptable: Comfortable in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with changing business needs.

DESIRED:

• CPA or CMA 

The duties of this position are those described above. This job description does not state or imply that the duties listed are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to this position. Employees holding this position will be required to perform any other job-related duties as requested by management. 

Applicants or current team members with a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or the Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act (ADAAA), or any state or local law which prohibits them from performing the essential functions of the job may request a reasonable accommodation in writing or by contacting the human resources department, in accordance with PLM policies.