Associate Director, Cost Accounting

Capricor Therapeutics•San Diego - SD4, CA

8d•$150,000 - $200,000

About The Position

Capricor Therapeutics is a biotechnology company advancing cell- and exosome-based therapies for rare diseases. The Associate Director of Cost Accounting oversees cost accounting functions, accurate cost management, and financial analysis to support business decisions. The role works with cross-functional teams, including operations, manufacturing, and supply chain, to optimize costs, improve efficiency, and support the company’s financial goals. The position leads cost accounting and reporting, including standard costs, inventory valuation, manufacturing variances, cost of goods sold, and cost performance analysis. It develops cost reports and models, supports budgeting and forecasting, and recommends cost optimization and process improvements. The role also oversees inventory reconciliation, reporting quality and deadlines, compliance with accounting principles and regulations, internal controls, and support for audits. The position requires a bachelor’s degree and 8–10 years of relevant experience, preferably in life sciences, pharmaceuticals, or biotechnology, including 3–5 years in a managerial or supervisory role. A master’s degree or CPA is preferred. The listed annual salary range is $150,000–$200,000. The role may also be eligible for a discretionary annual performance bonus and, depending on level, long-term equity incentives. Capricor offers 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.
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, and data analysis tools.
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 the ability to collaborate across departments and present 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 (Certified Public Accountant).
Experience in the life sciences, pharmaceutical, or biotechnology sectors.
Experience with ERP software such as SAP or Oracle and data analysis tools such as Excel or Power BI.

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 analysis to senior leadership, highlighting key cost drivers and trends.
Monitor and analyze manufacturing costs, variances, and product margins, and recommend ways to improve profitability.
Assist with annual budgets and forecasts, focusing on cost projections and margin optimization.
Lead improvements to cost accounting systems, tools, and processes to improve 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 and ensure compliance with industry standards and company policies.
Ensure accurate reconciliation of inventory balances and provide guidance on inventory management practices.
Ensure the team meets deadlines and maintains high-quality 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.