Cost Accountant at Condux International in Mankato, MN

Cost Accountant

Reports To: Director of Finance

FLSA Status: Exempt (Salary)

Work Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (Flexible) (Schedule may vary based on business needs).

Date: March 1, 2026

Position Summary

The Cost Accountant is responsible for performing cost accounting and general accounting functions in support of the company’s business objectives. This role prepares, analyzes, and interprets cost data, inventory valuations, and financial reports; supports operational decision-making; and ensures accurate product costing, margin analysis, and inventory controls within a manufacturing environment.

Essential Functions

• Develop, analyze, and maintain product costs, cost standards, and costing methodologies for business processes.
• Conduct cost-volume-profit (CVP) analysis and support pricing, margin, and profitability assessments.
• Perform account reconciliations and ensure accurate reporting of financial transactions, including inventory costing.
• Compile and analyze cost-related reports, including COGS, WIP, inventory transactions, purchase orders, and returns.
• Maintain general ledger inventory accounts and ensure accuracy of all transactions impacting inventory.
• Lead the product cost process, including new product cost estimates and ongoing cost analysis.
• Calculate obsolete and excess inventory reserves and ensure accurate financial reporting.
• Monitor cost and inventory variances; perform gross margin analysis; and collaborate with department leaders on trends, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Assist with ERP system implementation, testing, enhancements, and continuous process improvement initiatives.
• Manage multiple concurrent projects across departments while maintaining data accuracy and integrity.
• Assist with preparation for annual audits, maintain internal controls, and support safeguarding of company assets.
• Monitor cycle counts and inventory disposition; analyze results and prepare reserve adjustments as needed.
• Review bills of material (BOMs) and provide analysis and recommendations for cost and process improvements.
• Maintain standard costs and inventory valuation through purchase price variance (PPV) analysis.
• Participate as a member of the Product Development Team, providing costing and financial analysis support.
• Maintain regular and punctual attendance and communicate planned and unplanned absences in accordance with company policy.
• Complete special projects and additional assignments as needed.

Safety Responsibilities

• Follow all company safety policies and procedures.
• Comprehend, retain, and comply with established safety programs.

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business.
• 5+ years of cost accounting experience, including 3+ years in a manufacturing environment.
• Strong analytical, judgment, and strategic thinking skills, including preparation and interpretation of cost and inventory reports.
• Thorough understanding of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and cost accounting methodologies.
• Proficiency with accounting software and ERP systems; advanced working knowledge of Microsoft Excel.
• High level of personal and professional ethics and integrity.
• Ability to quickly understand new issues and make effective, timely decisions.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Ability to read, write, and comprehend the English language and follow written and verbal instructions.

Preferred

• Experience with standard costing, variance analysis, and PPV in a manufacturing ERP system.
• Experience supporting new product costing or product launches.
• Exposure to Lean manufacturing, continuous improvement, or operational finance support.
• Experience partnering directly with operations, engineering, or supply chain teams.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit for extended periods of time while working at a computer.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for keyboarding, data entry, and operation of standard office equipment.
• Ability to stand, walk, and move about the facility as needed.
• Ability to bend, reach, and lift up to 20 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, including listening and speaking.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Safety Equipment

When entering designated production areas, employees are required to wear steel-toed safety shoes and approved eye protection with side shields. Hearing protection is required only in posted areas of the production environment, in accordance with safety signage and company policy.

Benefit Disclaimer

Condux provides a competitive benefits package featuring medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) employer matching, short-term and long-term disability benefits, and an annual bonus opportunity.

Employment Statement

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or assign other duties as business needs require. This document does not constitute a contract of employment.

Acknowledgment

Employee Name (Print): ______________________________

Employee Signature: ________________________________ Date: _____________