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Posted July 21, 2026
Robert Half

Cost Accountant

Irvine, CA 92618, US Temporary
Compensation: $38 to $44 Hourly

We are looking for an experienced Cost Accountant to support a manufacturing organization in Irvine, California through a Long-term Contract engagement. This position will focus on strengthening cost accounting operations, improving inventory visibility, and providing accurate analysis in a fast-paced manufacturing setting. The ideal candidate brings strong hands-on experience with standard costing, cost build-ups, and detailed Excel-based reporting, along with the ability to quickly adapt and contribute across the broader cost accounting team.


Responsibilities:

• Manage day-to-day cost accounting activities for manufacturing operations, ensuring accurate tracking of product costs, inventory valuation, and related financial data.

• Prepare and analyze standard costs, including cost rollups, component build-ups, and overhead absorption calculations to support reliable reporting and decision-making.

• Perform detailed inventory analysis and help maintain accuracy across inventory records, reconciliations, and valuation processes.

• Support annual inventory procedures, including physical inventory planning, execution, review, and follow-up on discrepancies.

• Develop, maintain, and improve complex Excel-based reports used for cost analysis, reporting, and operational insights.

• Partner with accounting and operations teams to identify cost trends, explain variances, and recommend practical improvements.

• Provide additional support on broader team priorities, including work tied to manufacturing cost structures and acquisition-related accounting activities as needed.

• Contribute to manual and evolving reporting processes while helping create more efficient approaches for data analysis and financial visibility.


Qualifications:

• Proven experience in cost accounting within a manufacturing environment

• Strong knowledge of standard costing, cost analysis, and inventory accounting principles.

• Hands-on ability to build and interpret cost structures, nomenclature, and product cost calculations.

• Experience with overhead absorption analysis and manufacturing cost allocations.

• Advanced Excel skills with the ability to manipulate large data sets and produce meaningful analysis.

• Ability to learn quickly, work independently, and provide support in a team with shifting priorities.

• Familiarity with Power BI is a plus.

• Strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a deadline-driven environment


Compensation

$38.00-$44.00 Hourly

About Us

Robert Half is the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.

Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.

All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information.

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