Cost Accountant/Analyst

About The Job

HOURS: Part-time – contract based.

LOCATION: Fully Remote.

SALARY: $25 to $35 per hour.

Job Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented and experienced Cost Accountant/Analyst to join our accounting firm serving a health care system and other small businesses. This individual will focus on analyzing budgets and explaining variances due to fluctuating volumes or regulatory changes. The tasks would center on budget alignment is on target for specified areas and analyzing variances caused. Working remotely, this individual would deliver these insights through detailed reporting and virtual consultations, ensuring clients can make informed financial decisions.

The ideal candidate will have experience in cost accounting, ideally within the health care industry, and will be responsible for tracking and analyzing the costs associated with health care services, ensuring accurate financial reporting, and supporting cost management initiatives to optimize financial performance. This role requires a strong understanding of cost accounting principles, healthcare finance regulations, and data analysis.

Essential Job Functions And Responsibilities

Note: This is not intended to be an exhaustive listing of job functions. This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by this employee. The employee is required to follow any other instructions and to perform any other duties consistent with this position and as assigned by management.

• Cost Analysis and Reporting: Analyze and monitor costs (labor, materials, overhead) for clients to ensure accuracy and efficiency. Prepare and analyze cost reports for health care services, identifying cost drivers, trends, and areas for improvement.
• Cost Allocation: Develop and maintain cost allocation models to ensure accurate distribution of costs across various departments, services, and facilities.
• Budgeting and Forecasting: Assist in the preparation of annual budgets and forecasts, providing cost insights to support strategic financial planning.
• Variance Analysis: Perform monthly variance analysis to compare actual costs against budgeted or historical costs, providing explanations for significant discrepancies.
• Productivity and Efficiency Monitoring: Monitor the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of health care support operations, recommending changes to improve profitability and operational effectiveness.
• Collaboration: Work closely with department heads, managers, and senior leadership to provide financial insight and support decision-making related to cost control and resource allocation. Collaborate remotely with clients and internal teams to gather data and resolve discrepancies.
• Compliance and Documentation: Ensure compliance with industry-specific regulations, particularly in healthcare, and generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Prepare and maintain accurate documentation for audits and internal reviews.
• System and Process Improvements: Identify opportunities to enhance cost accounting processes, systems, and reporting tools.
• Ad Hoc Analysis: Provide financial analysis and reporting as needed to support special projects, business initiatives, or external reporting requirements.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and provide recommendations to improve profitability.
• General Ledger entries: Reconcile general ledger accounts related to cost accounting.
• Closing processes: Assist in the month-end and year-end closing processes as needed.
  
  

Qualifications & Skills

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• 3 years of cost accounting experience, preferably in healthcare or an accounting firm.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently in a remote environment with strong time management skills.
• CPA, Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or healthcare financial certification is a plus.
  
  

Technical & Analytical Skills

• Advanced Excel skills, including financial modeling and data analysis.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., Accounting Power, QuickBooks, or similar) and advanced Excel skills. Experience with financial modeling and ERP systems is a plus.
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of cost accounting principles, health care financial management, and relevant regulatory requirements (e.g., Medicare/Medicaid).
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills with the ability to present data in a clear and concise manner.
• Communication: Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to work effectively with various departments and senior leadership virtually.
  
  

Soft Skills

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication skills to work effectively with both financial and non-financial professionals.
• Attention to Detail: High attention to detail with a commitment to accuracy in reporting and analysis.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities.
  
  

WORK ENVIRONMENT: This is a part time remote - work from home - position.

WORK SCHEDULE: Expected workdays are Monday through Friday.

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Performance-based bonuses.
• Flexible work schedule options.
• Opportunities for career growth and professional development.
• Continuing education support.
  
  

HOW TO APPLY: Interested candidates should submit their resume and a cover letter citing key accomplishments in previous positions.