Cost Accountant (Manufacturing Accounting Background)

Job Title: Cost Accountant (Manufacturing Accounting Background)
Location: Crystal Lake, IL
Job Type: Full-Time | On-site
Experience Level: Mid-Senior (10+ years)
Education: Bachelors Degree required
Industry: Plastics Manufacturing
Visa Sponsorship: Not Available
Relocation Assistance: Not Available

Position Overview

A growing thermoplastics manufacturer in Crystal Lake, IL is seeking an experienced Cost Accountant with a strong manufacturing accounting background and long-term potential to grow into a Controller role. This newly created position is ideal for a detail-oriented professional who thrives in a hands-on environment and is ready to lead both tactical accounting tasks and strategic financial initiatives.

The company is transitioning from Sage Accounting to Epicors integrated ERP system, and this individual will play a key role in supporting that implementation while establishing strong financial controls and reporting practices.

Interview Process

• First Round: Phone or video call

• Second Round: Onsite interview at the clients facility in Crystal Lake, IL

Initial Responsibilities

• System & Process Familiarization: Learn the existing Sage accounting system, and understand the companys purchasing, inventory, and WIP (Work in Process) processes.

• ERP Implementation: Contribute to the financial setup and configuration of the new Epicor ERP system, including cost structures, burden rates, and data migration.

• Financial Oversight: Ensure clean, timely, and accurate data within the ERP system and establish sustainable accounting procedures.

• Month-End Close: Lead monthly close activities across departments, reconciling financial data and producing accurate reports.

• Cash Management: Coordinate with AP/AR and operations to manage inventory flow, ensure supplier payments are timely, and optimize customer collections.

• Tax Responsibilities: Ensure accurate and timely payment of payroll, sales, state, and federal taxes with the support of third-party providers.

Future Responsibilities

• Operational Collaboration: Work closely with operations to align costing and financial tracking with production schedules and efficiency goals.

• Financial Planning & Analysis: Develop budgets, forecasts, and financial models to support strategic decision-making.

• Reporting & Presentations: Support the CEO in preparing financial reports and presentations for lenders and stakeholders.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Experience: 10+ years of accounting experience, including in a manufacturing environment

• Education: Bachelors degree in Accounting or Finance

• Skills:

  • Strong cost accounting knowledge and experience in manufacturing operations

  • Familiarity with ERP systems (Epicor preferred)

  • Proficient in Sage and Microsoft Excel

  • Analytical and detail-oriented with strong communication skills

• Attributes:

  • Team-focused and honest with a high level of integrity

  • Willing to take initiative and grow into a leadership role

  • Interested in future ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) participation

Work Environment

• Fast-paced but supportive

• Family-oriented and collaborative

• Innovation-focused with long-term growth opportunities

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• AFLAC supplemental insurance

• Life and disability insurance

• Voluntary life insurance

• IRA retirement plan

• Paid vacation and holidays

• Flexible work hours

• Supportive, family-focused workplace