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.