Cost Accounting Lead

Job description

Job Purpose The Cost Accounting Lead is responsible for leading the design, analysis, and continuous improvement of the Company’s cost accounting processes to enhance financial insight, efficiency, and decision support. This role is expected to bring the technical expertise and experience to establish best‑in‑class cost analysis, reporting, and controls, including evaluating existing practices and implementing improved methodologies where needed. In addition to managing costs effectively, this position assesses business expenses, develops optimized budget and forecasting approaches, and ensures accurate inventory valuation and cost records. Through rigorous variance analysis and reporting, the role provides clear, actionable insights that support strategic and operational decision‑making. Key Responsibilities Design, execute, and continuously improve cost analysis frameworks across direct and indirect costs to identify inefficiencies, cost‑saving opportunities, and margin improvement opportunities Develop and enhance cost reporting and variance analysis, ensuring outputs are accurate, timely, and decision‑useful for management Assess existing cost structures, data flows, and reporting, identify gaps or inefficiencies, and implement improved processes, methodologies, or controls Prepare cost reports, financial statements, and analyses that support budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning Lead the preparation of cost forecasts and annual operating budgets, evaluating the financial feasibility of new projects, initiatives, and product lines Create and maintain annual standard cost updates, including review of work order settlements and cross‑company transactions Monitor inventory accuracy and cost of goods manufactured, ensuring integrity of inventory valuation and underlying cost drivers Partner with production, operations, supply chain, and finance teams to embed effective cost controls, improve purchasing practices, and support strategic initiatives Ensure adherence to US GAAP, internal accounting policies, and industry‑specific standards, maintaining strong audit readiness Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field; Master’s degree and/or CMA strongly preferred 5+ years of progressive cost accounting experience, preferably in a manufacturing or industrial environment, with demonstrated ownership of cost processes Proven experience designing, implementing, or substantially improving cost accounting and reporting processes, not just operating within them Strong proficiency in variance analysis, standard costing, inventory accounting, and cycle count reporting Advanced analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex cost drivers and translate them into actionable insights Strong systems and tools capability, including advanced MS Excel skills and experience with ERP/accounting systems, such as Epicor In‑depth understanding of US GAAP and cost accounting principles Demonstrated ability to work independently, define the right analytical approach, and drive execution through completion and documentation Strong communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial information to non‑financial stakeholders Comfortable operating in a fast‑paced environment, managing ambiguity, and proactively identifying improvement opportunities VulcanForms offers a competitive salary and equity package. Actual compensation is based on factors such as the candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience. In addition, VulcanForms provides comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; generous paid time off; and a 401(k) plan with company match. The annual base salary range for this position is $88,000 to $120,000. About Us Founded in 2015 to develop the world’s first industrially scalable laser metal additive manufacturing solution, VulcanForms is reshaping how the world manufactures critical products. We build and operate advanced digital infrastructure that enables innovation, accelerates growth, and supports sustainability across aerospace, defense, medical, and other essential industries. Through our vertically integrated capabilities, including scalable additive manufacturing and precision machining, we deliver true end-to-end production at scale by combining cutting-edge technology with a foundation of proven industrial craftsmanship. Our team brings deep expertise in manufacturing, materials science, software, automation, and operations, united by a shared commitment to quality, curiosity, and accountability. We foster an inclusive culture where people take ownership, solve meaningful problems, and continuously learn, because we believe diverse perspectives lead to better outcomes.