Reporting to the Manager – Accounting Analysis, the Cost Accounting Analyst is responsible for monitoring, maintaining, and refining the performance of standard product costing models in a complex manufacturing setting. Well-developed analytical abilities and technological proficiency will facilitate the collection and interpretation of data and support the ongoing development of reports and procedures necessary to adapt in a changing environment. The candidate will apply core competencies while working closely with the operations team, providing support with operational cost initiatives and reporting of metrics relating to key performance indicators.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Maintain in-depth knowledge of the current ERP system as it relates to all aspects of manufactured product costing and operational metrics including collecting and analyzing operational data (eg: manufacturing variances) and updating product costing information on an ongoing basis (eg: standard raw material input costs, inventory write-down provisions, backflush material usage).
• Perform analysis and root cause investigation with respect to standard costing manufacturing variance results and issue manufacturing variance reporting to operations management on a weekly basis; with guidance from the Manager – Accounting Analysis, prepare related adjusting journal entries on a monthly basis.
• Accumulate and analyze raw material purchase data on a quarterly basis in order to update standard costs of material inputs.
• Complete periodic analysis and update of manufacturing work center speed and scrap rates that build the foundation of standard costs for goods produced.
• Assist the Manager – Accounting Analysis with the compilation of standard work center labour and overhead rates on an annual basis.
• Prepare an analysis of aged inventory and compile a reserve for inventory obsolescence on a quarterly basis.
• Participate in key cost related areas of the annual budget preparation including the purchase of direct material inputs and the planned spend for direct labour.
• Maintain and grow an advanced knowledge base with respect to COGNOS reporting software. Skills will allow for the creation, modification, and upkeep of COGNOS reports within a range of moderate to high levels of complexity. Work closely with the Manager – Accounting Analysis to maintain the overall COGNOS reporting library.
• Prepare monthly journal entries relating to costing components of the general ledger including items such as research and development manufacturing order classifications and subcontracting operation adjustments.
• Assist with the preparation of the research and development income tax claim on an annual basis.
• Maintain a working knowledge of fixed asset accounting and the FAS reporting subsystem in order to provide support for capital asset reporting as required.
• Utilizing well-developed time management skills, undertake frequent costing and reporting project assignments from the Director of Finance and Administration, Controller, or the Manager – Accounting Analysis.
• Work with the Manager – Accounting Analysis with respect to the development, conversion, and ongoing testing of accounting and other components of the management information system in order to drive continuous improvements.
• Promote teamwork, cooperation, and communication within the department and company. Interact with all levels of the operation in support of Winpak’s TQI program.
• Perform duties and responsibilities in a manner compliant with ISO 9001 standards.

YOUR SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Completion of a professional accounting designation (CPA or equivalent) or enrollment in a program targeting such completion.
• 3 to 5 years’ experience in a cost accounting and analytical capacity with preference given to candidates holding previous manufacturing experience.
• Strong understanding of standard costing and basic statistical concepts
• Previous experience conducting moderate to complex analysis on large data sets.
• Working knowledge of computerized accounting systems and above average skills with respect to spreadsheet software.
• Previous experience and skills utilizing report generation software.
• Able to deal with all levels of an organization.
• Able to work under minimal supervision and with tight deadlines.
• Good interpersonal and communication (verbal and written) skills.
• Strong analytical and organizational skills.

INDS