Cost Accountant Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Cost accountant positions typically qualify for H-1B visa, E-3 visa, and TN visa sponsorship as specialty occupations requiring accounting or finance degrees. Major manufacturing companies, healthcare systems, and government contractors frequently sponsor cost accountants for work authorization. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
See All Cost Accountant JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 222+ Cost Accountant jobs


Have you applied for this role?


Have you applied for this role?


Have you applied for this role?


Have you applied for this role?


Have you applied for this role?
See all 222+ Cost Accountant jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Cost Accountant roles.
Get Access To All Jobs
INTRODUCTION
James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fiber cement, fiber gypsum, composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie®, TimberTech®, AZEK® Exteriors, Versatex®, fermacell®, and StruXure®.
With over 8,000 employees and our U.S. operating entities headquartered in Chicago, we boast 31 operating sites, 6 recycling facilities, and 6 research and development centers globally. Powered by a dynamic workforce, we’re united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All™ through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities.
SUMMARY
The Cost Accountant I will be responsible for planning, analyzing, and communicating the profitability of the plant’s manufacturing operations through detailed reports of efficiencies related to the plant’s production and other key financial information for management review. The Cost Accountant I is also responsible for coordinating and conducting cycle counts and annual physical counts within the plant, guiding the cost analysis process, and building and controlling the plant’s annual budget.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
- Examine the plant’s production costs, gain/loss, and month-end closing data
- Independently collect and analyze operational data
- Complete monthly cost analysis of controllable expense accounts and material cost variance accounts
- Support in the weekly forecast submissions, provide trends and recommend future action
- Gain understanding, and explain and reconcile manufacturing financial variances for the plant
- Prepare month-end close activities, including adjusting journal entries and accruals, closing production work orders, settling utility payments, and balance sheet reconciliations
- Identify resources and solutions to control or eliminate gaps to plan and/or plant performance goals
- Participate in daily/weekly plant meetings to explain the results of analysis and identified solutions
- Drive accounting processes within the plant to ensure accurate books and records and compliance to key control requirements including Sarbanes Oxley
- Provide support and documentation for monthly SOX controls, interim SOX testing, and audits from both Internal and External auditors
- Reconcile cycle counts and post adjustments approved by the Plant Controller
- Coordinate data points and provide organized data to senior Cost Accountants or Controller for decision making process
- Assist in building and managing the annual budget for the plant
- Participate in the annual update of Bill of Materials (BOMs) and Production Routings
- Recognize problems and generate solutions/ideas
Based on plant site size and complexity as well as need, the Cost Accountant I may also:
- Back up for production confirmation and daily reconciliation to SAP
- Identify and resolve any production entry discrepancies or issues
- Enter or scan raw material receiving receipt information and preparing for entry into SAP
- Enter raw material receiving data into SAP
- Maintain movement of inventory through the quality process
- Manage movement of damaged and obsolete inventory
- Own oversight of MRB (Material Review Board) inventory including movements of all quality and non-quality product
- Research and resolve purchasing invoice issues
- Coordinate and conduct cycle counts and annual physical counts within the plant
- Ensure that the cycle count is completed efficiently and accurately, and that all data has been entered properly
WHAT YOU’LL BRING:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or Finance required
- Minimum of one year experience in an accounting or finance role required
- Manufacturing experience preferred
- CPA / CMA certification (or in process) a plus
- Ability to be tactical as well as see the bigger operational picture
- Demonstrated knowledge of standard and cost accounting methods
- Ability to synthesize complex and detailed data and information into meaningful outtakes and decision base information
- Ability to offer solid solutions based on collected, summarized, and analyzed data
- Demonstrated ability to effectively take action to solve problems while exhibiting sound judgement
- Knowledge of research methods and report preparation
- Results-oriented to ensure delivery of appropriate products and services in accurate, complete, and timely fashion
- Demonstrated moderate skills with the standard features MS Office and other proprietary software
- Good interpersonal and written/oral communication skills with the ability to communicate cost and financial information across the business
- Demonstrated ability to identify problems and think independently about alternative ways to solve problems based on analysis of data
- Ability to challenge information and uncover robust facts and data which improve insights and the quality of the final decision
- Desire and tenacity to grow within the organization with consideration of relocation to other manufacturing facilities for opportunities
WHAT YOU’LL RECEIVE:
As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $57,400 to $71,800. Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and internal equity and may change over time. This position qualifies for benefits and you will be eligible to participate in a bonus plan.
At James Hardie, we recognize that our success depends on our people. We've worked hard to build a generous and competitive benefits program that demonstrates our commitment to our employees.
- Compensation: competitive salary and bonus eligibility
- Insurance: day-one health coverage medical, dental, vision, life insurance
- Paid Time Off: vacation and company holidays
- Retirement: 401(k) with 6% match
- Investments: Employee Stock Purchase plan (ESP)
- Work-Life Balance: parental leave, wellness programs
- Purpose. Impact. Community: Sustainability Initiatives | James Hardie
James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, veteran's status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, or any other basis protected by law.
James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, in accordance with its plans and policies.
The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.

INTRODUCTION
James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fiber cement, fiber gypsum, composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie®, TimberTech®, AZEK® Exteriors, Versatex®, fermacell®, and StruXure®.
With over 8,000 employees and our U.S. operating entities headquartered in Chicago, we boast 31 operating sites, 6 recycling facilities, and 6 research and development centers globally. Powered by a dynamic workforce, we’re united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All™ through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities.
SUMMARY
The Cost Accountant I will be responsible for planning, analyzing, and communicating the profitability of the plant’s manufacturing operations through detailed reports of efficiencies related to the plant’s production and other key financial information for management review. The Cost Accountant I is also responsible for coordinating and conducting cycle counts and annual physical counts within the plant, guiding the cost analysis process, and building and controlling the plant’s annual budget.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
- Examine the plant’s production costs, gain/loss, and month-end closing data
- Independently collect and analyze operational data
- Complete monthly cost analysis of controllable expense accounts and material cost variance accounts
- Support in the weekly forecast submissions, provide trends and recommend future action
- Gain understanding, and explain and reconcile manufacturing financial variances for the plant
- Prepare month-end close activities, including adjusting journal entries and accruals, closing production work orders, settling utility payments, and balance sheet reconciliations
- Identify resources and solutions to control or eliminate gaps to plan and/or plant performance goals
- Participate in daily/weekly plant meetings to explain the results of analysis and identified solutions
- Drive accounting processes within the plant to ensure accurate books and records and compliance to key control requirements including Sarbanes Oxley
- Provide support and documentation for monthly SOX controls, interim SOX testing, and audits from both Internal and External auditors
- Reconcile cycle counts and post adjustments approved by the Plant Controller
- Coordinate data points and provide organized data to senior Cost Accountants or Controller for decision making process
- Assist in building and managing the annual budget for the plant
- Participate in the annual update of Bill of Materials (BOMs) and Production Routings
- Recognize problems and generate solutions/ideas
Based on plant site size and complexity as well as need, the Cost Accountant I may also:
- Back up for production confirmation and daily reconciliation to SAP
- Identify and resolve any production entry discrepancies or issues
- Enter or scan raw material receiving receipt information and preparing for entry into SAP
- Enter raw material receiving data into SAP
- Maintain movement of inventory through the quality process
- Manage movement of damaged and obsolete inventory
- Own oversight of MRB (Material Review Board) inventory including movements of all quality and non-quality product
- Research and resolve purchasing invoice issues
- Coordinate and conduct cycle counts and annual physical counts within the plant
- Ensure that the cycle count is completed efficiently and accurately, and that all data has been entered properly
WHAT YOU’LL BRING:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or Finance required
- Minimum of one year experience in an accounting or finance role required
- Manufacturing experience preferred
- CPA / CMA certification (or in process) a plus
- Ability to be tactical as well as see the bigger operational picture
- Demonstrated knowledge of standard and cost accounting methods
- Ability to synthesize complex and detailed data and information into meaningful outtakes and decision base information
- Ability to offer solid solutions based on collected, summarized, and analyzed data
- Demonstrated ability to effectively take action to solve problems while exhibiting sound judgement
- Knowledge of research methods and report preparation
- Results-oriented to ensure delivery of appropriate products and services in accurate, complete, and timely fashion
- Demonstrated moderate skills with the standard features MS Office and other proprietary software
- Good interpersonal and written/oral communication skills with the ability to communicate cost and financial information across the business
- Demonstrated ability to identify problems and think independently about alternative ways to solve problems based on analysis of data
- Ability to challenge information and uncover robust facts and data which improve insights and the quality of the final decision
- Desire and tenacity to grow within the organization with consideration of relocation to other manufacturing facilities for opportunities
WHAT YOU’LL RECEIVE:
As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $57,400 to $71,800. Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and internal equity and may change over time. This position qualifies for benefits and you will be eligible to participate in a bonus plan.
At James Hardie, we recognize that our success depends on our people. We've worked hard to build a generous and competitive benefits program that demonstrates our commitment to our employees.
- Compensation: competitive salary and bonus eligibility
- Insurance: day-one health coverage medical, dental, vision, life insurance
- Paid Time Off: vacation and company holidays
- Retirement: 401(k) with 6% match
- Investments: Employee Stock Purchase plan (ESP)
- Work-Life Balance: parental leave, wellness programs
- Purpose. Impact. Community: Sustainability Initiatives | James Hardie
James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, veteran's status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, or any other basis protected by law.
James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, in accordance with its plans and policies.
The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.
See all 222+ Cost Accountant jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Cost Accountant roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a Cost Accountant
Target companies with complex costing needs
Manufacturing firms, aerospace contractors, and healthcare organizations need specialized cost accounting expertise. These industries routinely sponsor accountants for H-1B and other work visas.
Highlight cost system implementation experience
Companies implementing new ERP systems or cost accounting software value specialized knowledge. Experience with SAP, Oracle, or industry-specific costing systems strengthens sponsorship cases.
Emphasize regulatory compliance expertise
Cost accountants handling government contracts, FDA regulations, or Sarbanes-Oxley compliance demonstrate specialized skills that justify visa sponsorship for accounting positions.
Consider defense contractors and aerospace
Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and similar contractors regularly sponsor cost accountants. These roles often require security clearances, creating additional barriers for competitors.
Focus on manufacturing and healthcare sectors
Hospitals, medical device companies, and manufacturers have complex cost structures requiring specialized accounting expertise. These industries frequently sponsor qualified international accounting professionals.
Get relevant certifications before applying
CMA, CPA, or specialized cost accounting certifications demonstrate expertise beyond degree requirements. Professional certifications can strengthen H-1B specialty occupation arguments significantly.
Cost Accountant jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
Find Cost Accountant JobsFrequently Asked Questions
What degree do I need for H-1B sponsorship as a cost accountant?
You need a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a closely related field. USCIS considers cost accounting a specialty occupation requiring specific educational background. Economics or general business degrees may require additional documentation to prove specialty occupation qualifications.
Do cost accountant positions qualify for TN visa status?
Yes, if you're Canadian or Mexican. Cost accountant roles fall under the "Accountant" category for TN classification, requiring a bachelor's degree in accounting or equivalent. You must demonstrate the position involves accounting functions rather than general bookkeeping duties.
How competitive is H-1B sponsorship for cost accounting roles?
Cost accountants have moderate H-1B approval rates since the role clearly qualifies as a specialty occupation requiring accounting expertise. Companies in manufacturing, healthcare, and defense contracting regularly sponsor these positions. Having industry-specific experience or certifications improves sponsorship prospects significantly.
How to find Cost Accountant jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Cost Accountant jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international candidates with sponsoring employers. Focus on manufacturing companies, multinational corporations, and accounting firms that frequently sponsor H-1B, TN, and other work visas for finance professionals. These employers actively seek qualified Cost Accountants and understand the visa sponsorship process for international talent.
Can I get E-3 sponsorship for cost accountant positions?
Yes, if you're Australian. Cost accountant roles meet E-3 specialty occupation requirements with an accounting or finance degree. The position must involve specialized cost analysis, budgeting, or financial reporting rather than basic bookkeeping functions to qualify.
What if my degree isn't specifically in accounting?
You can still qualify through the experience substitution rule: three years of accounting experience equals one year of education. A business degree plus relevant cost accounting experience may satisfy requirements. CPA or CMA certification also helps demonstrate specialized accounting knowledge.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Cost Accountant jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.
See which Cost Accountant employers are hiring and sponsoring visas right now.
Search Cost Accountant Jobs