Position Summary
The Finance Analyst is responsible for supporting the accounting operations of a manufacturing organization, with a focus on cost accounting, inventory management, and financial reporting. This role ensures accurate tracking of product costs, supports month-end close processes, and helps maintain compliance with GAAP and company policies.
Key Responsibilities
Cost Accounting & Inventory
- Maintain and analyze standard costs for raw materials, labor, and overhead
- Perform cost variance analysis (material, labor, and overhead) and explain fluctuations
- Monitor inventory transactions, including receipts, transfers, and adjustments
- Reconcile inventory subledger to the general ledger
- Assist with periodic inventory counts (cycle counts and physical inventory)
Financial Reporting & Close
- Prepare journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules
- Assist with month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes
- Analyze manufacturing variances and provide insights to operations teams
- Support preparation of financial statements and management reports
Budgeting & Analysis
- Assist in the development of annual budgets and forecasts
- Track actual performance versus budget and identify trends
- Provide financial analysis to support operational decision-making
Systems & Controls
- Maintain cost accounting data in ERP systems
- Ensure internal controls over financial reporting and inventory are in place and functioning
Collaboration
- Partner with production, supply chain, and operations teams to ensure accurate cost data
- Support process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy
- Communicate financial insights to non-finance stakeholders
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
- 2–5 years of accounting experience, preferably in a manufacturing environment
- Experience with cost accounting or inventory accounting strongly preferred
Technical Skills
- Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., IQMS, SAP, Oracle, or similar)
- Strong Excel skills (pivot tables, lookups, data analysis)
- Knowledge of GAAP and cost accounting principles
Soft Skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
- Effective communication and collaboration skills
Preferred Qualifications
- CPA or progress toward certification
- Experience with standard costing and variance analysis
- Familiarity with lean manufacturing environments or continuous improvement initiatives
Work Environment
- Primarily office-based with periodic time on the production floor
- May require extended hours during month-end close or audits
Success Metrics
- Accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting
- Effectiveness of cost analysis and variance reporting
- Inventory accuracy and reconciliation performance
- Contribution to process improvements and cost savings
