Cost Accountant

Summary

PALFINGER is a technology and mechanical engineering company providing innovative crane and lifting solutions worldwide. The Cost Accountant will support the Trenton manufacturing facility and Finance team by preparing cost analyses, budget reports, and financial insights. The role manages inventory and cost of goods sold accounting, financial close activities, forecasting, controls, reporting, and audit documentation.

Responsibilities

• Analyze actual manufacturing costs against standards, prepare production variance reports, and provide management with insights into factors affecting product pricing and profitability
• Execute monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close activities focused on inventory and cost of goods sold, including general ledger support and adherence to U.S. GAAP principles
• Reconcile and report raw materials, work-in-process, and finished goods inventories while supporting physical inventories, cycle count programs, and key inventory controls
• Partner with operations, purchasing, and engineering to maintain accurate bills of materials, routings, and cost standards, and provide input into forecasts for inventory, labor, and overhead
• Drive continuous improvement in cost accounting workflows, reporting accuracy, ERP data flows, and cost efficiency while preparing schedules and documentation for internal and external audits

Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a related field with two to five years of accounting experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in cost accounting
• Strong cost systems background, excellent analytical skills, and a sound understanding of accounting principles
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills and familiarity with ERP systems, Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint
• Experience working cross-functionally with engineering and manufacturing teams on the development and analysis of cost standards
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to accurately prepare recurring reports and present information to management
• Experience with Sage, SQL, and Power BI is preferred

Qualifications

Must Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or a related field with two to five years of accounting experience in a manufacturing environment, preferably in cost accounting
• Strong cost systems background, excellent analytical skills, and a sound understanding of accounting principles
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills and familiarity with ERP systems, Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint
• Experience working cross-functionally with engineering and manufacturing teams on the development and analysis of cost standards
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to accurately prepare recurring reports and present information to management

Nice to Haves

• experience with Sage, SQL, and Power BI is preferred

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package with flexible options
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for continuous learning and career growth
• An environment of Respect, Integrity, Openness, Inclusion, and Support