Finance Analyst

Position Summary

The Finance Analyst is responsible for supporting the accounting operations of a manufacturing organization, with a focus on cost accounting, inventory management, and financial reporting. This role ensures accurate tracking of product costs, supports month-end close processes, and helps maintain compliance with GAAP and company policies.

Key Responsibilities

Cost Accounting & Inventory

Maintain and analyze standard costs for raw materials, labor, and overhead

Perform cost variance analysis (material, labor, and overhead) and explain fluctuations

Monitor inventory transactions, including receipts, transfers, and adjustments

Reconcile inventory subledger to the general ledger

Assist with periodic inventory counts (cycle counts and physical inventory)

Financial Reporting & Close

Prepare journal entries, account reconciliations, and supporting schedules

Assist with month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes

Analyze manufacturing variances and provide insights to operations teams

Support preparation of financial statements and management reports

Budgeting & Analysis

Assist in the development of annual budgets and forecasts

Track actual performance versus budget and identify trends

Provide financial analysis to support operational decision-making

Systems & Controls

Maintain cost accounting data in ERP systems

Ensure internal controls over financial reporting and inventory are in place and functioning

Collaboration

Partner with production, supply chain, and operations teams to ensure accurate cost data

Support process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy

Communicate financial insights to non-finance stakeholders

Qualifications

Education & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

2–5 years of accounting experience, preferably in a manufacturing environment

Experience with cost accounting or inventory accounting strongly preferred

Technical Skills

Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., IQMS, SAP, Oracle, or similar)

Strong Excel skills (pivot tables, lookups, data analysis)

Knowledge of GAAP and cost accounting principles

Soft Skills

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

Attention to detail and accuracy

Ability to work independently and meet deadlines

Effective communication and collaboration skills

Preferred Qualifications

CPA or progress toward certification

Experience with standard costing and variance analysis

Familiarity with lean manufacturing environments or continuous improvement initiatives

Work Environment

Primarily office-based with periodic time on the production floor

May require extended hours during month-end close or audits

Success Metrics

Accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting

Effectiveness of cost analysis and variance reporting

Inventory accuracy and reconciliation performance

Contribution to process improvements and cost savings