Cost Accountant

Charter Manufacturing is a fourth-generation family-owned business where our will to grow drives us to do it better. Join the team and become part of our family! Hybrid role, onsite 3 days a week in Milwaukee, WI Job Description – Cost Accountant Position Purpose / Mission Join a high‑impact finance team where you’ll serve as the go‑to expert in cost and inventory accounting. In this role, you will own month‑end close for cost accounting, deliver meaningful cost and margin insights, and partner closely with Operations, Supply Chain, and Finance. Your work will directly influence operational efficiency, profitability, and strategic decision‑making across the business. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field or equivalent experience 4–6 years of cost accounting or manufacturing finance experience Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills Proficiency with ERP systems and advanced Excel skills Solid understanding of US GAAP, inventory valuation, and cost allocation methodologies Preferred Qualifications CPA, CMA, or MBA 6–8 years of experience in cost accounting and manufacturing environments Experience leading month‑end close or driving process improvements Key Responsibilities Lead the monthly cost accounting close, including cost roll‑ups, reconciliations, and accuracy of cost data Analyze manufacturing variances, trends, and cost drivers, delivering insights that help leadership take action Support the development and maintenance of standard costs, including routine updates Collaborate cross‑functionally with Operations, Supply Chain, and Finance to interpret cost results and identify improvement opportunities Provide financial analysis for capital investments, production efficiency initiatives, and pricing decisions Maintain strong internal controls over cost and inventory accounting processes Drive automation and process improvements to enhance reporting accuracy and efficiency Provide support to broader accounting functions as needed Mentor and guide junior accountants, sharing best practices and technical expertise Follow all Environmental, Quality, and Safety Management System guidelines Ability to meet the essential requirements of the role, with or without reasonable accommodation We offer comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits, along with a 401(k) plan that includes employer matching and profit sharing. Additionally, we offer company-paid life insurance, disability coverage, and paid time off (PTO). OUR STORY Charter Manufacturing is a family-owned group of diversified metals manufacturing businesses founded in 1936 and headquartered in Mequon, Wis. Our will to grow drives our success. It is fueled by a team of respected and dedicated employees committed to continuous improvement and an entrepreneurial spirit that thrives within the Charter family. WE ARE INVESTED IN YOU When you work at Charter Manufacturing you’re part of a four-generation family business. That means, you’re not just an employee, you’re one of our family members. We believe in mutual trust. Employees are respected and empowered to explore new and better ways to impact the success of the company. Employees, at every level, are valued for their motivation to deliver the best products and service. We are in this together. Charter has a thriving team environment. Part of being a family means we collaborate, learn, thrive and benefit – together. We are committed to your future. The forward thinking and enthusiasm from our team drives us to create resources and opportunities for employees to learn, develop and create their own future. We celebrate you. We are successful because of our employees — and their great work doesn’t go unnoticed. We recognize and reward our employees for their contributions. Visit our website to learn more about our family of companies. View our 2022 Sustainability Report. To review our data use practices, visit our Company Privacy Policy. View/Download Employment-related Notices: FMLA Poster E-Verify Participation Poster (English & Español) Right to Work Poster (English & Español)