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What does a Cost Accountant do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 4 min read

A cost accountant is a professional who tracks and analyzes the costs associated with a company's products or services. They may work in a variety of industries, but their primary goal is always to ensure that their company is as efficient as possible in its production or delivery process. Cost accountants typically have a strong background in mathematics and accounting, and they use this knowledge to help their companies make informed decisions about where to allocate their resources.

Cost Accountant job duties include:

  • Maintaining and updating cost accounting records
  • Analyzing changes in product design, raw materials, manufacturing methods or services provided, to determine effects on cost
  • Analyzing actual manufacturing costs and preparing periodic reports comparing standard costs to actual production costs
  • Investigating root causes of variances between standard and actual costs
  • Assist in month end closing
  • Update standard costs in the bill of materials
  • Work with engineering on product cost reduction initiatives
  • Support marketing and sales with ad-hoc analysis as requested
  • Prepare journal entries and maintain documentation for monthly close process
  • Perform account analysis and reconciliations

Cost Accountant Job Requirements

A cost accountant typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field, although some jobs may require a master's degree or certification. Cost accountants must have strong analytical and math skills and be able to use cost accounting software. They also need to be detail-oriented and able to meet deadlines. Previous experience in accounting or auditing is often required for cost accountant positions.

Cost Accountant Skills

  • Analytical skills
  • Profit and loss analysis
  • Budgeting
  • Forecasting
  • Financial statement analysis
  • Variance analysis
  • Cost analysis
  • Activity-based costing
  • Standard costing
  • Product costing
  • Process costing
  • Job costing

Related: Top Cost Accountant Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Cost Accountant

A cost accountant is someone who tracks, analyzes and reports on the financial costs associated with running a business. Cost accounting is a vital function in any organization, as it provides critical information that can be used to make decisions about pricing, product development and other strategic initiatives. If you are interested in becoming a cost accountant, there are a few things you should know.

First, cost accounting is a highly technical field, so you will need to have strong math skills and be comfortable working with numbers. You should also be detail-oriented and able to work independently. Strong writing and communication skills are also important, as you will be preparing reports and presenting your findings to senior management.

If you meet these basic requirements, the next step is to get some formal education in cost accounting. Many colleges and universities offer degree programs in this field, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs. Once you have completed your studies, the next step is to find a job with a company that needs cost accounting services. Start by searching online job boards or contacting professional organizations in your field. With hard work and dedication, you can build a successful career as a cost accountant.

Related: Cost Accountant Resume Example

Related: Cost Accountant Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

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Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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