Finance Analyst

Job Description
Job Description
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