Cost Accountant

Description We are looking for a Cost Accountant to support manufacturing finance operations in Salt Lake City, Utah. This Long-term Contract position focuses on delivering accurate cost data, maintaining standard costing practices, and providing analysis that helps improve financial visibility across production activities. The ideal candidate will bring strong experience in cost accounting within a manufacturing setting and the ability to turn detailed cost information into practical business insight.Responsibilities:- Prepare, review, and maintain product costing records to ensure reliable financial reporting for manufacturing operations.- Analyze production expenses, material usage, labor, and overhead to identify cost trends and explain variances.- Support the development, upkeep, and validation of standard costs for inventory and manufactured goods.- Partner with finance and plant operations teams to monitor performance and improve the accuracy of cost-related data.- Perform recurring and ad hoc cost analysis to help management evaluate profitability, spending patterns, and operational efficiency.- Reconcile inventory and manufacturing cost activity within accounting records and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.- Assist with month-end close activities related to cost accounting, including journal entries, reporting, and variance review.- Contribute to process improvements involving costing methods, reporting practices, and internal financial controls when needed. Requirements - Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.- Demonstrated experience in cost accounting, preferably within a manufacturing environment.- Strong working knowledge of standard costing principles and manufacturing cost structures.- Ability to perform detailed cost analysis and interpret financial results accurately.- Proficiency in spreadsheets and accounting or ERP systems used for cost tracking and reporting.- Solid analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills with strong attention to detail.- Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with finance and operations teams.Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-app) and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking "Apply Now," you're agreeing to Robert Half's Terms of Use (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/terms) and Privacy Notice (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/privacy) .