Cost Accountant

About Us

Advanced Structural Technologies (AST) is a leading manufacturer specializing in forged, flow-formed, and machined products for the aerospace, defense, and automotive industries. With over 25 years of experience, AST has built a strong reputation for precision engineering, innovation, and high-quality manufacturing.

Located in Oxnard, California, AST operates out of a cutting-edge facility spanning over 250,000 sq. ft., including our newest expansion completed in 2024. AST employs approximately 200 skilled professionals across multi-shift operations, ensuring efficiency, precision, and timely delivery for mission-critical industries.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Cost Accountant with a strong shop floor orientation to support our production and manufacturing operations. This role will play a crucial part in maintaining accurate cost structures, tracking work-in-process (WIP), managing fixed assets, and driving cost allocation across production departments. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in a high-volume manufacturing environment and a solid background in inventory cost analysis, production work order management, and manufacturing key performance indicator (KPI) monitoring.

Key Responsibilities

• Track and manage work-in-process (WIP) inventory to ensure accurate production cost reporting and job costing throughout the manufacturing cycle.
• Oversee fixed asset management, including asset capitalization, depreciation schedules, and periodic reconciliation aligned with shop floor operations.
• Conduct inventory cost analysis and reconciliation across raw materials, WIP, and finished goods to support accurate valuation.
• Evaluate production work orders and track performance against standard costs.
• Drive cost allocation across production departments, cost centers, and manufacturing processes to ensure accurate product costing and financial data integrity.
• Collaborate with Production Management to review profitability analysis and cost variances.
• Assist in the implementation and continuous improvement of cost management systems.
• Develop and maintain reports for cost efficiency tracking and manufacturing KPIs.
• Provide financial insights to management for strategic decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with internal controls, policies, and financial reporting requirements.
• Perform other duties as needed to support financial and operational goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• 2 years of experience in cost accounting within a manufacturing environment; shop floor or production-oriented experience preferred.
• Experience with ERP or MRP systems is a plus (e.g., Oracle NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics, SAP, or equivalent).
• Strong understanding of standard costing methods and cost management systems.
• Proficiency in cost accounting software and financial analysis tools.
• Ability to analyze and interpret production and inventory cost data.
• Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and analytical mindset.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments.
• High level of integrity and credibility in financial reporting.

Why Join AST?

At AST, we believe in fostering a work environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. We offer a competitive benefits package, including:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Company-Sponsored Life Insurance
• Short-term and Long-term Disability Coverage
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation and Sick Leave

If you are a skilled Cost Accountant with experience in manufacturing finance and cost management, we encourage you to apply. AST is committed to maintaining a fair and respectful workplace for all employees.