Job Title: Cost Accountant

Reports to: Senior Director of Finance

Job Status: Full-Time

Location On-site, Southfield, MI 

Summary

Founded in 2002, Beyond Basics is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit working to eradicate illiteracy, transforming the lives of students, and creating stronger communities. Our one-on-one, multisensory tutoring program helps students achieve grade-level proficiency in reading in an average of six weeks. In addition to our structured literacy interventions, we cultivate curiosity and encourage a love of lifelong learning with fine arts activities that expand horizons. 

The Cost Accountant will play an important role in helping Beyond Basics achieve its vision to provide high quality literacy and academic enrichment programs. At Beyond Basics, you will be responsible for managing and analyzing all costs associated with our programs, projects, and operations during a period of high growth to ensure our financial health and operational efficiency. Your expertise will influence the company's profitability and continued growth. 

Duties and Responsibilities

• Implement and maintain the cost accounting system, documents, and records.
• Analyze and report on cost variances, identifying root causes and proposing solutions.
• Assist in the costing of current programs and projects, ensuring accurate reflection of costs.
• Coordinate with various departments to collect and analyze data for budgeting purposes.
• Prepare detailed budget reports, highlighting discrepancies and advising on corrective actions.
• Conduct ongoing process constraint analyses and report on margins and month-end close processes.
• Develop and maintain internal control documentation related to cost accounting and ensure compliance.
• Analyze financial data to identify trends, perform cost-benefit analysis, and recommend cost-saving measures.
• Lead financial planning and analysis regarding future expense forecasting and planning.
• Stay updated on industry trends and changes in regulations that may impact cost accounting practices.

• Perform other duties as assigned to support the financial team and overall company objectives.

Competencies 

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in cost accounting, preferably in the not-for-profit sector.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles and cost accounting standards.
• Proficient in accounting software and MS Office, with advanced Excel skills.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• CPA or CMA certification is a plus.

Work Environment

This position operates on-site in an office environment on a day-to-day basis. This position will be expected to travel to various partner locations. 

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee must regularly sit and use hands as well as communicate effectively. This position may require the ability to lift and move items. The person in this position must have reliable transportation.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. This position description is intended to describe the essential functions of and requirements for the successful performance of this position. It is not to be interpreted as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements of this position, nor is it intended to limit the authority of any manager to assign and direct the activities of employees.