Cost Accountant

LightPath Technologies, Inc. is a leading global provider of precision optics and photonics solutions, serving defense, aerospace, medical, and industrial markets. With decades of expertise and a strong culture of innovation, LightPath designs and manufactures advanced optical components and systems that power some of the world’s most demanding applications. We offer a collaborative, technology-driven environment, opportunities to work on cutting-edge programs, and a comprehensive benefits package that supports our employees’ health, growth, and work-life balance.

We are currently looking for a Cost Accountant to join our team onsite in our Orlando, FL office. We offer a 9/80 work schedule and foster a professional, high-energy culture where employees are empowered to succeed.

This position is responsible for collecting, analyzing and reporting on production-related costs, with a focus on enhancing operational efficiency and driving profitability. This position requires a strong analytical mindset to support operational efficiency and strategic decision-making within the organization.

Responsibilities:

• Cost analysis and control: Track, analyze, and report on all manufacturing costs, including direct materials, direct labor, and overhead. Identify cost trends, analyze spending variances, and recommend cost-saving opportunities.
• Standard cost maintenance: Develop and update standard costs for all manufactured products. Work with cross-functional teams, including engineering and production, to ensure Bills of Materials (BOMs) and routing are accurate.
• Financial reporting: Prepare comprehensive cost reports, margin analysis by product, and inventory valuation reports for management. Assist in month-end and year-end close processes, focusing on cost of goods sold (COGS) and inventory accounts.
• Inventory management: Oversee inventory valuation, reconcile inventory accounts, and coordinate physical inventory counts and cycle counts. Investigate discrepancies to ensure accurate financial data.
• Budgeting and forecasting: Support the budgeting and forecasting processes for manufacturing costs and provide insights into cost assumptions and trends.
• Cross-functional collaboration: Partner with operations, procurement, and other departments to improve cost control, process efficiency, and overall operational performance.
• Process improvement: Proactively identify and lead initiatives to streamline cost accounting processes, enhance data accuracy, and implement best practices.
• Compliance and auditing: Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and company policies. Assist with internal and external audit requests related to cost and inventory.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills with the ability to present complex financial data in a clear and actionable manner.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to drive cost-saving initiatives.
• Self-driven, adaptable, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment.

Experience/Qualification:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance or related field.
• 3-5 years of progressive cost accounting within a manufacturing or production environment.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and familiarity with accounting software and ERP systems.

This role offers an excellent opportunity to directly contribute to the company’s financial success by driving cost efficiency and profitability.