Senior Cost Accounting Manager

Headfarmer is seeking an experienced Senior Cost Accounting Manager to join our team as a Project Consultant supporting a highly profitable, growth-oriented manufacturing client in Phoenix. In this role, you will focus on standard costing, inventory, and cost of goods sold for a predominantly domestic manufacturing operation, partnering closely with operations and supply chain leaders. Help drive accurate product costing, insightful variance analysis, and meaningful financial support for the plant, while contributing to process improvements and scalable cost accounting practices.Key Responsibilities may include:Lead and oversee standard cost and inventory accounting for a high-volume manufacturing environment. Ensure accurate product costing, bill of materials integrity, and cost of goods sold reporting in compliance with GAAP. Maintain and update standard costs in collaboration with supply chain and operations, including time studies and annual pricing updates. Perform cost and variance analysis on manufacturing expenses and margins; present findings and recommendations to operations leadership. Partner closely with the VP of Operations, manufacturing leadership, and related departments as their primary finance business partner for forecasting and budgeting. Support month-end close by preparing and reviewing cost-related journal entries and reconciliations for assigned accounts. Drive continuous improvement in costing processes, reporting, and use of ERP tools (NetSuite) to enhance accuracy and efficiency. Provide guidance and light oversight to accounts payable activities as needed, and collaborate across the broader accounting and finance team. Requirements:Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; CPA or CMA certification a plus 5+ years of progressive accounting experience, with a strong focus on manufacturing cost accounting and inventory Hands-on experience with standard costing, bills of materials, and cost of goods sold Prior exposure to month-end close activities, including account reconciliations and variance analysis Proven ability to partner closely with operations/manufacturing leadership, providing clear financial insight and support Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, explain variances, and translate results into actionable recommendations Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, comfortable leading discussions with non-finance stakeholders Experience working with ERP systems (NetSuite experience highly preferred) and proficiency in MS Office Suite, especially Excel Demonstrated initiative, curiosity, and ability to learn customized systems and processes quickly