Senior Cost Accountant

Aston Carter•Chattanooga, TN

11d•$120,000 - $140,000•Onsite

About The Position

Aston Carter is seeking a highly analytical and detail-oriented Senior Cost Accountant to join a finance and accounting team in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The role manages cost accounting functions, analyzes manufacturing and operational costs, supports financial reporting, and provides insights to improve business performance. The position is contract-to-hire and fully onsite. Compensation is listed as $45–$60 per hour and a pay range of $120,000–$140,000 per year; individual compensation depends on qualifications, skills, experience, job knowledge, location, internal equity, and other job-related factors. The position offers yearly bonuses based on production and company performance, a total rewards package, growth opportunities, competitive pay, and a flexible work schedule.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
At least 5 years of accounting experience, including cost accounting responsibilities.
Strong understanding of inventory accounting and standard costing methodologies.
Advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including Pivot Tables, VLOOKUPs, and financial modeling.
Experience with ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, JD Edwards, NetSuite, or similar platforms.
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally.

Nice To Haves

Manufacturing, distribution, or industrial accounting experience.
CPA, CMA, or progress toward certification.
Experience with inventory management and production reporting.
Knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting requirements.
Experience supporting budgeting and forecasting processes.
Continuous improvement or process optimization experience.

Responsibilities

Analyze product costs, manufacturing variances, and operational expenses.
Prepare and maintain standard cost calculations and cost models.
Monitor inventory transactions and perform inventory reconciliations.
Evaluate labor, material, and overhead costs to identify trends and cost-saving opportunities.
Assist with month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close activities.
Prepare journal entries, account reconciliations, and financial analysis reports.
Support budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes.
Partner with operations and production teams to improve cost visibility and profitability.
Participate in physical inventory counts and cycle count programs.
Ensure compliance with accounting standards, internal controls, and company policies.
Assist with audits and special financial projects as needed.