ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Cost Analyst Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Zeus

Cost Accounting Analyst

Arden Hills, MN · On-site

Participate on and support project teams to reduce product cost, evaluate key cost components of the operations (efficiencies, yields, etc.) Assist with the review and analysis of the actual ...

Robert Half

Cost Accountant

Albert Lea, MN · On-site

$95K/yr

The ideal candidate brings strong experience in cost accounting, inventory analysis, and month-end close within a manufacturing environment. This is a wonderful opportunity to join a great team, grow ...

Actalent

Cost Engineer

Rosemount, MN

$45 - $60/hr

Perform detailed cost analysis to support decision-making and ensure accurate forecasting of project expenditures. * Support purchasing activities by reviewing, analyzing, and validating costs ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCost Analyst JobsCost Analyst Jobs in Minnesota

Cost Analyst information

See Minnesota salary details

$36.2K

$84.5K

$124.9K

How much do cost analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for cost analyst in Minnesota is $84,535.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,100.00 and $98,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a cost analyst do?

A Cost Analyst is responsible for examining and managing the costs associated with a company's operations, products, or projects. They analyze financial data, prepare cost reports, and work to identify areas where expenses can be reduced without compromising quality. Cost Analysts often collaborate with other departments to ensure budget adherence and provide recommendations for cost-saving strategies. Their work helps organizations make informed financial decisions and improve profitability.

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.

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 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 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.

How much does a cost analyst make?

The average salary for a cost analyst is around $65,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while experienced analysts or those with specialized skills can earn over $85,000 annually.

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.
More about Cost Analyst jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Cost Analyst jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Cost Analyst jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Cost Analyst jobs in Minnesota?

For Cost Analyst jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cost Analyst jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Cost Analyst jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Cost Analyst jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Cost Analyst job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Cost Analyst jobs in MN?

For Cost Analyst jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Cost Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cost Analyst job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,535 per year, or $40.6 per hour.

Cost Accounting Analyst

Zeus

Arden Hills, MN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Job Summary

The position will support both finance and operations by being involved in the cost accounting systems and processes, as well as the monthly cost of goods sold and inventory reporting. Functions as a business support person to the CathX plants and finance team. Works closely with manufacturing to understand issues and how they impact the financial results as well as educate/inform department(s) on cost drivers and variances. Participate on and support project teams to reduce product cost, evaluate key cost components of the operations (efficiencies, yields, etc.) Assist with the review and analysis of the actual manufacturing variances to identify key performance drivers and encompass key findings into standard setting processes.

Zeus Industrial Products, headquartered in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is the world's leading polymer extrusion manufacturer and material science innovator. More than 50 years of experience in medical, aerospace, energy, automotive, fiber optics, and more allows us to set the bar high.

Zeus is a great place to work. Expectations are high; our work is meticulous and very precise. Zeus offers an opportunity to join a very successful, family-oriented team. Our products are cutting-edge, our process is unique, and our quality and customer focus are second-to-none. We are a leader in our field and have great relationships with our customers and team members. Many of our team members are the best at what they do in the world. Our customers are leaders in their fields. Our products help save lives.

Continuous Improvement is a way of life at Zeus. Successful candidates will have a desire and ability to take our manufacturing process to the next level. Expectations are high; our work is meticulous and very precise. You must possess the ability to work independently; and the desire to learn a variety of skills. The ability to communicate clearly is imperative, as is the ability to manipulate data using various software packages. 

At Zeus, what we do matters, and we pride ourselves in "Turning polymers into possibilities." Expectations are high; our products are cutting-edge, our process is unique, and our quality and customer focus are second-to-none.

Our employees and our customers are at the center of everything we do. Those relationships have been built on a foundation that is supported by our Mission and Vision:

Our Mission:  Provide Solutions - Enable Innovation - Enhance Lives

Our Vision:  Working Together - Doing It Better

Zeus is an exciting, innovative company that offers competitive pay and a great benefits package. As we continue to push the boundaries of polymer science, we're constantly in need of new ideas, new expertise, and new team members. Are you ready to join us?
Content

BS degree in Accounting or Finance with 5 years of experience in a detailed manufacturing cost accounting environment. In lieu of a BS Degree, 15+ years of experience in a detailed manufacturing environment.

Strong understanding of cost accounting/analysis.

Continuous improvement oriented;has familiarity with lean principles and how to apply them to Finance Value Streams.

Self-motivated;embraces and thrives on challenge.

Ability to support a cross-functional plant management team.

Proven ability to prioritize objectives and duties / multi-tasker.

Strong written and verbal communications skills.

Exercises judgment in selecting methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results.

ERP systems experience

Experience in Oracle a plus

Proficient in Microsoft Excel.

The ability to travel 5-10% of time

Salary Range: $72,000 - $100,000

Assist with the monthly closing for the financial and cost of goods sold process for CathXmanufacturing organization.

Prepare monthly P&L statements for CathXmanufacturing organization and various cost centers.

Assist with the reconciliation of the monthly physical inventory.

Interact with Product Definition to ensure BOM and Routings are accurate and up to date.

Analyze actual manufacturing costs and preparing periodic reports comparing standard costs to actual production costs.

Daily and Weekly analysis of manufacturing variances.

Assists with loading annual standard cost update into Oracle.

Prepares Daily Inventory Change Report.

Prepares weekly consignment inventory reports.

Prepares monthly Raw Material Activity Reports.

Perform ad hoc product / plant cost analysis to support the operations.

Support Operations Controller with any ad hoc requests/reports.

Apply