Senior Cost Accountant

Graco manufactures and markets premium equipment to move, measure, control, dispense and spray a wide variety of fluid and powder materials. What does that mean? Well, we pump peanut butter into your jar, and the oil in your car. We glue the soles of your shoes, the glass in your windows and the screen on your phone. We spray the finish on your vehicle, coatings on your pills, the paint on your house and texture on your walls. Graco is part of your daily life. This role is currently based at our Minneapolis office and will transition to our new headquarters in Dayton, MN, in 2027.   The Senior Cost Accounting Analyst is responsible for managing and analyzing the financial aspects of manufacturing operations to ensure accurate cost reporting, budgeting, and forecasting. The Senior Cost Analyst provides critical insights into production costs, inventory valuation, and cost efficiency, enabling strategic decision-making. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of cost accounting principles, excellent analytical skills, and experience in the manufacturing industry.    What You Will Do at Graco Cost Analysis and Reporting Optimization Leadership Lead comprehensive cost analysis of manufacturing costs to identify trends and areas for strategic improvement. Develop and refine cost models and conduct variance analysis to understand deviations from standards. Oversee the accuracy, integrity, and consistency of cost accounting data, ensuring compliance with internal policies and external regulations. Strategize and lead cost reduction strategies, working with cross-functional teams to optimize processes and drive towards zero cost change.  Expertise of cost accounting concepts and principles related to manufacturing operations. Expertise in cost accounting software and tools. Identify, design, and lead the implementation of process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and streamline reporting workflows. Promote a culture of continuous improvement by mentoring teams and championing data-driven decision-making within the organization. Present detailed cost analysis findings to stakeholders, clarifying the implications of the data. Build and maintain strong relationships with colleagues in operations and finance. Inventory Management Oversee inventory valuation and reconcile variances between physical counts and system records. Streamline inventory management to drive efficiencies and process improvements globally.  Oversee compliance of periodic inventory audits and discrepancies. Financial Planning and Analysis  Assist in preparing annual budgets, monthly forecasts, and cost estimates. Analyze cost trends and recommend opportunities for cost reduction or efficiency improvements. Provide financial support for capital expenditure evaluations. Financial Support and Decision-Making Partner with operations, supply chain, and engineering teams for cost insights and strategic decisions. Analyze cost components to support cost strategies. Deliver ad-hoc cost analysis and recommendations to senior management. What You Will Bring to Graco Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field. 5+ years of experience in cost accounting or finance.  Strong understanding of cost accounting principles, manufacturing processes, and standard costing. Proficient in cost accounting software. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills with attention to detail. Exceptional communication skills and project management abilities to lead cross functional teams. Strong understanding of activity-based costing, margin analysis, and cost modeling. Advanced knowledge of financial modeling and data analytics capabilities. Proficient with ERP systems (e.g. SAP, Oracle), and intermediate Excel functions and Microsoft Office Suite. May require occasional travel to other facilities or suppliers as needed. Advanced ERP System Knowledge. Accelerators Global industrial manufacturing experience and knowledge.