Associate Director, Cost Accounting

Capricor Therapeutics•San Diego, CA

23h•$175,000 - $200,000

About The Position

The Associate Director of Cost Accounting oversees and manages cost accounting functions for a life sciences company. The role ensures accurate cost management and provides financial insights that support business decisions, working closely with operations, manufacturing, and supply chain teams to optimize costs, improve efficiency, and contribute to financial goals. The position leads cost reporting and analysis, inventory valuation and reconciliation, manufacturing variance analysis, cost modeling, budgeting and forecasting support, and improvements to cost accounting systems and processes. It also ensures that cost accounting practices comply with GAAP, IFRS, company policies, and applicable industry regulations, and supports internal and external audits. The posted salary range is $175,000–$200,000 per year. The role may also be eligible for a discretionary annual performance bonus and, depending on role level, long-term equity incentive awards. Benefits include employer-sponsored medical, dental, and vision coverage; company-paid basic life and AD&D insurance; a 401(k) plan with company match; paid time off and company holidays; paid parental leave; and potentially additional voluntary benefits and wellness programs.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
Minimum of 8–10 years of experience in cost accounting or financial management, preferably in life sciences, pharmaceuticals, or biotechnology.
At least 3–5 years of experience in a managerial or supervisory role leading cost accountants or finance professionals.
Extensive experience with cost accounting systems, ERP software such as SAP or Oracle, and data analysis tools such as Excel or Power BI.
Strong knowledge of cost accounting principles, inventory management, and financial analysis.
In-depth understanding of manufacturing cost structures, labor costing, and overhead allocation.
Ability to manage complex financial models and cost systems.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including collaboration across departments and presentation of financial information to non-financial stakeholders.
Strong problem-solving skills and ability to drive process improvements.
Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree or CPA certification.
Experience in life sciences, pharmaceutical, or biotechnology sectors.

Responsibilities

Lead cost accounting functions, including preparation, analysis, and reporting of standard costs, inventory valuation, and manufacturing variances.
Oversee cost of goods sold calculations, inventory reconciliation, and establishment of standard costs for products and services.
Review and analyze monthly, quarterly, and annual cost performance for accuracy and identify cost-optimization opportunities.
Develop, prepare, and present cost reports and analyses to senior leadership, highlighting key cost drivers and trends.
Monitor manufacturing costs, variances, and product margins, and recommend ways to improve profitability.
Assist with annual budgets and forecasts, particularly cost projections and margin optimization.
Lead improvements to cost accounting systems, tools, and processes to increase accuracy, automation, and efficiency in cost tracking and reporting.
Develop cost models and simulations to assess the financial impact of production decisions, including changes in raw materials, labor costs, and production volumes.
Oversee inventory valuation in accordance with industry standards and company policies.
Ensure accurate reconciliation of inventory balances and provide guidance on inventory management practices.
Ensure the team's adherence to deadlines and quality standards in financial reporting and cost analysis.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to provide financial insights and drive cost-optimization strategies.
Ensure cost accounting practices comply with GAAP, IFRS, and company-specific policies.
Maintain internal controls that support the accuracy and integrity of cost accounting data.
Support internal and external audits by providing documentation and explanations of cost-related processes.
Ensure cost accounting methods and reporting comply with industry regulations and standards, including those set by the FDA and other governing bodies.
Perform other duties as assigned.