Cost Accountant at Element Solutions in West Haven, Connecticut

Job Description:

Challenge Yourself and Impact the Future!

Element Solutions Inc (NYSE: ESI) is a leading specialty chemicals company whose operating businesses formulate a broad range of solutions that enhance the performance of products people use every day. Developed in multi-step technological processes, our innovative solutions enable our customer's manufacturing processes in several key segments, including electronic circuitry, communication infrastructure, automotive systems, industrial surface finishing, consumer packaging, and offshore energy.

Customers of our businesses use our innovation as a competitive advantage, relying on us to help them navigate in fast-paced, high-growth markets. For example, in-car technology, from infotainment to driver assistance, is accelerating the pace of new product development and changing the competitive playing field for automotive manufacturers. With a long-standing presence in automotive markets and a deep market expertise in electronics, we sit at the intersection of this fast-growing market.

We strive to embody the five Elements of our Culture, our 5Cs: Challenge, Commit, Collaborate, Choose and Care. These core values are the foundation of our organization which our employees embrace in their interactions with customers, colleagues and other stakeholders to drive financial performance and create a rewarding work environment.

Who are we looking for?

The Cost Accountant is responsible for accurately inputting, analyzing, and monitoring product costs and manufacturing variances to support efficient financial management and decision-making. This position plays a critical role in maintaining and processing data related to cost accounting functions for the West Haven, CT location. Key responsibilities include managing and ensuring the accuracy of:

• Bills of Materials (BOM)
• Product Routings
• Raw Material and Purchased Item Standards
• Manufacturing Variances (Material, Labor, Overhead)
• Standard Cost Updates and Cost Revaluations

The role requires attention to detail, timely data maintenance, and proactive monitoring to drive operational efficiency and cost control within the organization.

What will you be doing?

• Recommend and implement corrective actions for any variances or discrepancies associated with the manufacturing processes.
• Define, maintain, and report inventory transactions for off-site and non-traditional manufacturing locations and processes.
• Research and resolve any reporting related differences as a result of ongoing reviews of costs and inventory related general ledger account balances.
• Periodic journal entries – for example, GL to Perpetual Inventory reconciliations, product line reporting, absorption analysis, unique process reconciliations and adjustments, etc.
• Monitor, review, and research (where necessary), fields with impacts to Precious Metal Position Reporting.
• Monitor and communicate inventory related points of interest to the management team (aging inventory, expired, shelf life issues, uncharacteristic aspects, etc).
• Interact with the business and sites to coordinate scheduling and oversight of physical inventories.
• Estimate, project and communicate proposed standard cost set up and valuation for potential new items, as well as those requested for review by Sales and/or Marketing.
• Interact with Sales and business leaders regarding Inter-Company Pricing policy, processing, calculations and evaluations.
• Monitor various systems and respond accordingly to address the needs of the business (for example: JDE, Lotus Notes, Sharepoint, etc).
• Product Line Reporting and Analysis – profitability by product line, trends over time, comparisons to budgeted / forecasted values, flux analysis, etc.
• Coordinate fixed asset audits, reviews, and tagging with Engineering and Site leaders.
• Coordinate physical inventory counts, audits, reviews, and tagging with site leaders.
• Monitor Construction In Progress spending on approved projects, as well as assistance with budgeted / forecasted project spend maintenance in Lotus Notes.
• Support Supply Chain with Monthly KPI template reporting.
• Other duties, responsibilities, and projects as assigned.

Who are You?

• Bachelor's degree from four-year college or university (preferably in an Accounting/Finance curriculum);
• 3 to 5 years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Able to travel up to 10% of time both domestically and internationally
• Bilingual in English and Spanish a plus but not necessary.
• Experience with Oracle products such as JD Edwards, Hyperion Enterprise, Hyperion Financial Management, etc. is desirable. Knowledge of SAP a plus.
• Cost center budgeting/forecasting experience is desirable.

We understand that not all candidates may meet the requirements listed above. If you believe you have the knowledge and experience necessary to excel in this role, we encourage you to apply.

What competencies will you need?

• Strong Excel and analytical skills a must.
• Ability to work in a high paced and multi-task environment.
• High ethical standards and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Well-organized and detail oriented.
• Ability to interact professionally with internal customers at off-site ESI Family divisions.
• Self-motivated and able to work with minimal supervision.

We are Offering...

Challenge Yourself and Impact the Future - You will be part of a highly collaborative culture that promotes continuous improvement through cross-functional partnerships to achieve our mission. We do this through a strong and unified culture and transparent management which has empowered us to create high performing global teams that achieve superior solutions for our customers.

As part of the MAES Team, you will have ...

• Opportunities for career growth, competitive compensation (competitive base salary and performance related bonus plan) and benefits packages (health, dental, and vision insurance, Wellness Program, PTO/Holidays, as well as a 401(k)-retirement plan with a company match).
• Innovated work environment where you will be a part of a dynamic and collaborative team.
• Perks and Incentives such as paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement, and opportunities for professional development.

Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

#LI-SB1

PI259371962