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Cost Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Waypoint Human Capital

$105/hr

Cost Analyst Position Type: Full-time, On-Site Location: Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG), MD Clearance: Active Secret Description: Waypoint's client is seeking a Cost Analyst to serve as a subject ...

Yamaha

Cost Analyst

Newnan, GA · On-site

The Cost Analyst is an analytical role within the Procurement Innovation unit, responsible for analyzing procurement, sourcing, and cost data to identify cost reduction opportunities, pricing risks ...

RIGUP -Midstream Oil & Gas

Cost Analyst

Midland, TX · On-site

Job type: Long term Temporary/Contract Pay rate: open for negotion The Cost Analyst plays a critical role in supporting the financial health of the organization through detailed cost analysis ...

DCS CORPORATION

Cost Analyst

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

As a Cost Analyst , you will provide critical cost analysis and budget execution support to Army acquisition programs and integrated government teams, working across a variety of programs and task ...

Waypoint Human Capital

Cost Analyst

Aberdeen, MD · On-site

$105/hr

Cost Analyst Position Type: Full-time, On-Site Location: Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG), MD Clearance: Active Secret Description: Waypoint's client is seeking a Cost Analyst to serve as a subject ...

Tecolote Research

Cost Analyst

Washington, DC · On-site

$65K - $145K/yr

Overview Tecolote Research is seeking an experienced Cost Analyst to join our National Capital Programs Group. The is full-time onsite position in the Washington Metro Area and requires a Top-Secret ...

The Carian Group

Cost Analyst

South Plainfield, NJ · On-site

Cost Analyst Location: New Jersey, Newark Hybrid - Up to 3 days in the office CARIAN is a forward-thinking energy efficiency program management consulting firm dedicated to pioneering sustainable ...

DCS Corp

Cost Analyst

Fort Belvoir, VA

As a Cost Analyst , you will provide critical cost analysis and budget execution support to Army acquisition programs and integrated government teams, working across a variety of programs and task ...

Instant Serve LLC

Cost Analyst

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Cost Analyst Location: Huntsville, AL ( Onsite) Duration : Full Time Pay : $79k/yr - 110k/yr on W2 The client is seeking motivated professionals to support dynamic U.S. Army acquisition efforts in a ...

DHD Consulting

Cost Analyst

Englewood Cliffs, NJ

$76K - $93K/yr

Cost Analyst Position Level: Assistant Manager ~ Manager OVERALL SUMMARY OF THE POSITION The Cost Analyst serves as a key business partner to senior management, including the planning and finance ...

RSC2 INC

Cost Analyst

Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

$66K - $157K/yr

Perform cost analysis work. Work will include mastery of integrated cost analysis and cost estimating for life cycle cost estimate development, procurement, and operations as it relates to Research ...

RSC2

Cost Analyst

Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD · On-site

$66K - $157K/yr

Perform cost analysis work. Work will include mastery of integrated cost analysis and cost estimating for life cycle cost estimate development, procurement, and operations as it relates to Research ...

DCS Corporation

Cost Analyst

Fort Belvoir, VA

As a Cost Analyst , you will provide critical cost analysis and budget execution support to Army acquisition programs and integrated government teams, working across a variety of programs and task ...

CFS

Cost Analyst

Elkhart, IN

$60K - $70K/yr

This Cost Analyst role supports a growing manufacturing company that recently expanded operations and is continuing to scale. * The business is in an exciting growth phase, creating opportunities for ...

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Cost Analyst information

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$37K

$86.3K

$127.5K

How much do cost analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for cost analyst in the United States is $86,312.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $100,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Cost Analysts in managing project budgets, and how can they be addressed?

Cost Analysts often encounter challenges such as incomplete data, shifting project scopes, and unexpected expenses that can impact budget accuracy. To address these issues, it's important to maintain clear communication with project managers and department heads, use reliable forecasting tools, and regularly review financial reports for discrepancies. Proactively identifying potential cost overruns and suggesting corrective actions helps ensure projects stay within budget and meet organizational financial goals.

What degree do you need to be a cost analyst?

A cost analyst typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field. Some employers prefer candidates with a master's degree or professional certifications such as the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Strong analytical skills and proficiency with spreadsheets and data analysis tools are also important.

What is the difference between Cost Analyst vs Financial Analyst?

AspectCost AnalystFinancial Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in finance, accounting, or related field; often certifications like CMA or CPABachelor's in finance, economics, or related; certifications like CFA are common
Work EnvironmentCorporate finance, manufacturing, or government agencies focusing on cost controlInvestment firms, banks, or corporate finance departments analyzing financial data
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industries with cost management needs such as manufacturing and logisticsUsed across finance sectors including banking, investment, and corporate finance

The main difference between a Cost Analyst and a Financial Analyst lies in their focus areas. Cost Analysts primarily concentrate on controlling and reducing costs within organizations, often working closely with operations. Financial Analysts analyze financial data to guide investment and business decisions. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but their work environments and objectives differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Cost Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cost Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, a solid grasp of accounting principles, and typically a bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or a related field. Proficiency in Excel, ERP systems (like SAP), and cost accounting software, along with certifications such as CMA (Certified Management Accountant), are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting data and presenting findings to stakeholders. These competencies are essential for delivering accurate cost analyses that support informed business decisions and enhance organizational efficiency.

What does a cost analyst do?

A cost analyst evaluates and monitors a company's expenses and financial data to identify cost-saving opportunities and improve budgeting accuracy. They analyze financial reports, use spreadsheets and financial software, and often collaborate with other departments to ensure cost efficiency and financial performance. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail are essential for this role.

Is a budget analyst an entry level job?

A budget analyst is often an entry-level position that requires a bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or a related field. However, some roles may prefer or require prior experience or certifications, and advancement can involve developing skills in financial analysis and budgeting tools. Entry-level budget analyst roles typically involve supporting senior analysts and learning industry standards.

What Does a Cost Analyst Do?

A cost analyst helps their company control expenses through financial research and analysis. In this job, your duties include analyzing the difference between company costs and standard costs, developing budgets, auditing financial transactions, conducting market research, and preparing reports for company leadership. One of your goals is to determine how to lower costs for the company. The qualifications for a career as a cost analyst include a bachelor’s degree in business administration or accounting, experience in cost accounting, and excellent analytical skills. Some employers may also require you to be a certified public accountant (CPA) to qualify for this job.

How much does a cost analyst make in the US?

A cost analyst in the US typically earns an average salary of around $65,000 to $75,000 per year, with entry-level positions starting lower and experienced analysts earning more. Salaries can vary based on industry, location, education, and certifications such as Certified Management Accountant (CMA).
More about Cost Analyst jobs
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What are the most commonly searched types of Cost Analyst jobs? The most popular types of Cost Analyst jobs are:
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What states have the most Cost Analyst jobs? States with the most job openings for Cost Analyst jobs include:
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Cost Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cost Analyst job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 59% Full Time, 35% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,312 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Cost Analyst

Waypoint Human Capital

$105/hr

Other

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Cost Analyst
Position Type: Full-time, On-Site
Location: Aberdeen Proving Ground (APG), MD
Clearance: Active Secret
Description:
Waypoint's client is seeking a Cost Analyst to serve as a subject matter expert in cost analysis supporting DoD acquisition programs. This role focuses on developing and evaluating Program Life Cycle Cost Estimates (LCCE) and Program Office Estimates (POE), ensuring all cost assessments meet Army and DoD standards.
The selected candidate will lead technical cost analysis efforts, support high-visibility program decisions, and provide guidance to junior analysts while working closely with program stakeholders and contracting representatives.
Responsibilities:
  • Perform complex cost analysis across the program lifecycle, including development, demonstration, and production phases.
  • Develop and evaluate cost estimates, positions, and assessments to support program decision-making.
  • Collaborate with subject matter experts to develop Independent Government Cost Estimates (IGCEs).
  • Analyze prototype systems and assess the cost impacts of various technical approaches and program strategies.
  • Provide technical leadership, including reviewing work products and mentoring junior personnel.
  • Coordinate directly with Contracting Officer Representatives (CORs) and program stakeholders.
  • Support development and presentation of cost analysis findings to leadership.

Required:
  • U.S. Citizenship.
  • Active Secret clearance.
  • Bachelor's degree in Operations Research, Mathematics, Data Analytics, Economics, or a related quantitative field.
  • Minimum 15+ years of experience preparing and updating cost estimates.
  • Minimum 8+ years of experience using ACEIT for cost estimation and analysis.
  • Experience supporting DoD acquisition programs, including work with PEOs, Project Managers (O6), or Product Managers (O5).
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
  • Experience performing detailed quantitative and cost analysis in support of program decisions.

Desired:
  • Industry-recognized cost estimating certification such as ICEAA PCEA or CCEA.
  • Experience supporting Army acquisition programs.
  • Experience developing and presenting cost analysis briefings to senior leadership.
  • Experience supporting high-visibility or large-scale defense programs.
Salary Range:$105-135K plus benefits

*Waypoint Human Capital is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender, national origin, age, protected veteran status, or disability status.

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