Cost Accountant

<h2>Cost Accountant — Waverly, Iowa</h2> <p>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.</p> <h2>Responsibilities</h2> <ul> <li>Maintain and analyze standard costs for materials, labor, and overhead</li> <li>Perform month-end close activities including journal entries and account reconciliations</li> <li>Investigate and report on manufacturing variances, identifying root causes and trends</li> <li>Support inventory valuation, cycle counts, and physical inventory processes</li> <li>Prepare cost analyses to support pricing decisions and operational improvements</li> <li>Collaborate with production and operations teams to ensure accurate cost data</li> <li>Assist in the development of annual budgets and forecasts</li> <li>Generate regular financial reports for management review</li> </ul> <h2>Qualifications</h2> <ul> <li>Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field</li> <li>Five or more years of accounting experience, with demonstrated strength in cost accounting</li> <li>Prior experience in a manufacturing environment is required</li> <li>Proficiency with ERP systems and strong Excel skills</li> <li>Solid understanding of inventory accounting and variance analysis</li> <li>Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities</li> <li>Effective communication skills with the ability to work cross-functionally</li> </ul> <h2>Why This Opportunity</h2> <p>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.</p>