Cost Accountant

Transparent Search Group has been retained to identify a Cost Accountant for a manufacturing company based in Waverly, Iowa. This is an on-site role suited for an experienced accounting professional with a solid foundation in cost accounting within a manufacturing environment. Candidates must be local to the area or willing to relocate within Iowa, as relocation assistance is not available for this position.

Responsibilities

• Maintain and analyze standard costs for materials, labor, and overhead
• Perform month-end close activities including journal entries and account reconciliations
• Investigate and report on manufacturing variances, identifying root causes and trends
• Support inventory valuation, cycle counts, and physical inventory processes
• Prepare cost analyses to support pricing decisions and operational improvements
• Collaborate with production and operations teams to ensure accurate cost data
• Assist in the development of annual budgets and forecasts
• Generate regular financial reports for management review

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
• Five or more years of accounting experience, with demonstrated strength in cost accounting
• Prior experience in a manufacturing environment is required
• Proficiency with ERP systems and strong Excel skills
• Solid understanding of inventory accounting and variance analysis
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Effective communication skills with the ability to work cross-functionally

Why This Opportunity

Our client offers a stable, established manufacturing environment where the Cost Accountant will have meaningful visibility into plant operations and a direct impact on financial decision-making. The compensation for this role is up to $115,000, commensurate with experience. This is a suitable next step for an accounting professional looking to deepen their cost accounting expertise in a focused, hands-on role. Candidates local to Waverly, Iowa or elsewhere in Iowa are encouraged to apply.