What are the responsibilities and job description for the Cost Analyst - Government Contracts position at Murrietta Circuits?
About Us:
We are a privately held small business with approximately 110 employees, specializing in the design, manufacturing, and assembly of high-reliability printed circuit boards. Since 1980, we’ve served top-tier aerospace and defense clients, including Raytheon, Honeywell, and Northrop. Over 90% of our work supports military electronics programs, often involving sole-source contracts governed by the Truth in Negotiation Act (TINA) and subject to Cost Accounting Standards (CAS).
Position Summary:
We are seeking a detail-oriented Cost Analyst to support our pricing, estimating, and government compliance efforts. This individual will play a critical role in preparing cost proposals for large contracts, ensuring TINA compliance, and helping us move toward a fully DCAA-compliant cost accounting system. The ideal candidate will have strong technical skills, excellent communication abilities, and a working knowledge of government contract requirements. Excellent communication, organizational, and negotiation skills are necessary to be successful in this position.
Responsibilities:
Responsibilities:
- Develop, analyze, and present cost proposals in support of major government contract bids (TINA threshold and above).
- Collaborate with Engineering, Production, and Management to generate accurate and compliant cost estimates.
- Evaluate and refine cost accounting practices to improve traceability, documentation, and audit readiness.
- Assist with the implementation and improvement of cost accounting policies to align with DCAA expectations.
- Prepare documentation and support internal and external audits (DCAA, DCMA).
- Create, manage, and automate Excel-based costing models, including the use of advanced formulas and macros.
- Analyze actual vs. estimated cost variances to drive improved quoting accuracy and profitability.
- Stay current on applicable FAR/DFARS, CAS, and TINA regulations.
- Provide management with financial analysis related to pricing, profit margins, and cost drivers.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field.
- 3 years of experience in cost analysis, pricing, or accounting—preferably in a government contracting environment.
- Familiarity with FAR, DFARS, CAS, and TINA requirements.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including pivot tables, advanced formulas, and VBA/macros.
- Strong analytical, organizational, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to work cross-functionally and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience preparing or reviewing DCAA-compliant cost proposals.
- Familiarity with electronic manufacturing or defense/aerospace industry.
- Experience with ERP or cost accounting software used in manufacturing environments.
- Prior exposure to DCAA audits or pre-award accounting system reviews.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- Competitive salary
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
- Collaborative and mission-driven work environment
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Holidays
Work Location: In person