Cost Accountant

Job Overview The Cost Accountant / Analyst supports the Plant Accounting team at ADM Abu Dhabi in day-to-day costing and financial reporting activities within a JD Edwards (JDE) environment. Reporting to the Plant Controller, this role supports standard costing, variance analysis, inventory accounting, and period-close processes while building the technical and analytical skills needed for progression within the function. Responsibilities Support and help maintain standard costs across BOMs and routings within JDE, taking ownership of assigned areas under the direction of the Plant Controller. Support the annual cost roll process by preparing and validating cost component data. Help review and update labor and overhead rate schedules in line with inputs from operations and HR. Assist with month-end cost accounting close activities, including work order closures and WIP reconciliation in JDE. Support accurate cost allocation and posting of manufacturing transactions in the ERP system. Assist in analyzing manufacturing variances including Job Cost Variance (JCV) and Purchase Price Variance (PPV). Prepare variance schedules comparing standard costs to actual production costs, document findings, and present summary reports to the Plant Controller. Support preparation of variance and performance reports for plant management review. Assist with financial modeling and ad hoc analysis as directed. Assist in coordinating cost accounting and reporting activities to meet monthly, quarterly, and annual deadlines. Support compliance with GAAP and internal financial policies in all cost accounting activities. Perform account reconciliations and assist with balance sheet reviews and general ledger activities during period close. Maintain accurate financial records and documentation to support audit readiness. Serve as a focal point for internal and external audit requests, coordinating documentation and analysis as required. Assist in coordinating physical inventory counts and fixed asset verification processes. Support cycle count programs, ensuring timely posting and reconciliation within JDE. Help investigate and resolve inventory discrepancies in coordination with operations and supply chain teams. Liaise with production teams to support alignment on costing assumptions and inventory valuation. Contribute ideas for improvement across costing, reporting, and inventory processes. Support ERP system improvements related to costing and financial reporting. Adhere to internal controls and support the strengthening of financial governance frameworks. Build collaborative working relationships across operations, supply chain, and finance teams. Skills Good understanding of accounting principles and GAAP. Analytical mindset with strong attention to detail. Strong communication and teamwork skills. Ability to manage tasks and meet deadlines with guidance. Eagerness to learn and develop within a manufacturing finance environment. Solid Microsoft Excel skills, including pivot tables, VLOOKUP, and basic financial modelling. Exposure to JD Edwards (JDE EnterpriseOne) or another ERP system is an advantage. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is required. CPA, CA, ICWA, or ACCA qualification is preferred. 2–4 years of accounting experience, ideally in a manufacturing or industrial environment. Some exposure to cost accounting, variance analysis, or inventory is preferred. #LI-MD1