Senior Cost Accountant
About The Position
Prater Industries is seeking an experienced accounting professional to join our team. This person will own the day-to-day accounting operations, supervision of the accounting team, the monthly close and reconciliation process, and support our manufacturing business. This role is ideal for someone with a strong foundation in manufacturing and cost accounting who is ready to take on greater ownership of the function and work closely with operations leadership to support strategic business initiatives. You'll report to the Director of Finance and have direct exposure to leadership, playing a key role in driving process improvements, cost reductions, and cross-functional initiatives.
Requirements
- Minimum of three years in accounting with a demonstrated foundation in manufacturing and cost accounting.
- Manufacturing experience is strongly preferred, with demonstrated examples of using Financial & Operational data to identify constraints and work cross-functionally to improve cost, margin, or business performance.
- Intermediate to advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, complex formulas, financial modeling)
- Experience with accounting systems and data integration across applications
- Demonstrated ability to champion projects and influence outcomes across departments
- Strong communication skills
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
Nice To Haves
- Familiarity with AI tools as applied to accounting/finance workflows a plus
- Understanding of relational databases/SQL a plus
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing principles (e.g., 5S, continuous improvement, waste reduction) a plus
- A growth mindset - this role is a pathway toward a Controller role
- CPA/CMA/MBA a plus
Responsibilities
- Own month-end close process, account reconciliations, and general ledger analysis
- Manage cost accounting processes including standard costing, inventory valuation, and variance analysis
- Lead a team of three direct reports
- Provide support for the annual budget process, including monthly variance analysis
- Partner with Operations and leadership to identify financial and operational constraints affecting cost and margin, and work with key personnel to determine root causes, develop corrective actions, and track results.
- Collaborate with and present findings to the leadership team, effectively communicating financial insights to both financial and non-financial stakeholders
- Identify, champion, and implement improvements to accounting processes and internal controls, from concept through implementation, working cross-functionally to drive adoption
- Support ERP system usage, reporting, and process optimization within the organization
- Leverage AI and automation tools to drive efficiencies throughout the organization
- Assist with technical accounting matters, audit support, and other tax and compliance matters as needed
Benefits
- medical, dental, and vision insurance
- a 401(k) plan with company match
- paid time off and holidays
- life and disability insurance
- opportunities for ongoing learning and career advancement
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
