Cost Accountant
Howmet Aerospace
Fontana, CA · Posted May 7, 2026
More in California job market · Manufacturing & Industrial · Finance jobs
Pay compared with the market
This listing does not state pay. Across 36 open cost accountant listings that state pay, the middle half runs $80,000 to $92,500 and the median is $84,000.
Listed pay is what employers advertise, not what people are paid.
About the job
SUMMARY
Partners with operation teams to reduce costs and improve gross margin, manages inventory transaction accuracies to ensure no major inventory write-offs or write-downs. Provides timely update of cost rolls and manages the once-a-year cost roll with new rates.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be required and assigned at any time.
Partners with Operation Management, Manufacturing Engineering, Procurement, Outside Processing and Inventory Control to improve operation excellence
Manages cost accounting transactions to ensure compliance with US GAAP and Company Costing Policies and Procedures
Ensures inventory valuation accuracy through correct costing, analysis, and cycle count tracking
Performs analysis and support to Operation Management to achieve the cost reduction goals
Assists in the preparation of daily and monthly P&Ls
Reviews and updates standard costs for each work cell based on Company requirements
Prepares and effectively communicates margin analysis and reports to Operation Management
Assists in preparing costing data for major business decisions
Leads the annual physical inventory counts and quarterly mini counts
Assists Controller in developing financial forecasts, budgets, and operating plans
Assists in the evaluation and preparation of ERP upgrades
Participates and provides financial support in Theory of Constraints (ToC) and other LEAN initiatives
Provides other duties as needed and assigned.
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
A BA degree in Accounting or Finance
+2 years of Cost Accounting experience in a manufacturing environment
Expert skills in all accounting disciplines, including financial reporting, cost accounting, budgeting, planning and forecasting
A demonstrated ability to simultaneously administer and coordinate multiple, ongoing projects, ensuring that they are implemented effectively within targeted timelines and costs.
Good knowledge of Word, Access, Excel, Power Point, and other applicable tools. Knowledge of Infor Visual Manufacturing and Infor Global Financials is highly desirable.
COMPUTER SKILLS
Good knowledge of Word, Access, Excel, Power Point, and other applicable tools. Knowledge of Infor Visual Manufacturing and Infor Global Financials is highly desirable.
Microsoft Office Suite
Global Visual experience is a plus
LANGUAGE SKILLS
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively before groups of employees of organization, customers, and outside regulatory agencies.
MATHEMATICAL SKILLS
Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra, geometry, percentages circumference and volume
REASONING ABILITY
Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of variables in situations where standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.
PAY RATE
$72k - $95k depending on experience
Compensation and Benefits:
If a pay range is identified for this job, it is based on a good faith estimate at the time of this posting. Actual compensation is subject to variation due to factors such as education, experience, skillset, market/business considerations, and/or location.
Howmet Aerospace offers a competitive benefits package to support the health, financial well-being, and professional growth of our employees. Benefits include:
Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision benefits coverage, including FSA and HSA account options
Pre-tax and Roth 401(k) retirement savings plans offering employer matching funds and a separate employer retirement contribution
Paid holidays and vacation time (eligibility, accrual, and usage are discretionary and governed by applicable policies)
Paid parental leave and adoption assistance programs
Life insurance and disability coverage plans
Optional coverage plans for auto, home, legal, identity theft, and pet insurance
Tuition Assistance Program and ongoing professional development opportunities
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Our Story:
Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. Our primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With $8.3 Billion in revenue in 2025, our products play a crucial role in enabling fuel efficiency and lightweighting, contributing to our customers’ success and making a positive impact on the world. To learn more about the way Howmet Aerospace Inc. is advancing the sustainability of our customers, markets, and communities where we operate, review the 2025 Environmental Social and Governance report at www.howmet.com/esg-report . Follow: LinkedIn , Twitter , Instagram , Facebook , and YouTube .
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
If you need assistance to complete your application due to a disability, please email: TalentAcquisitionCoE_Howmet@howmet.com