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Cost Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a Cost Analyst to support the Department of State IT Governance Support Services Bureau of Consular Affairs. This position supports the decision-making framework for addressing several ...

Cost Analyst The Cost Analyst position supports project teams by analyzing cost and revenue data in order to provide timely & reliable financial information that is meaningful to project management ...

The Cost Analyst provides detailed cost analysis support on Direct Reduction Iron (DRI) industrial plant projects. DRI plant projects can vary in types, sizes, complexities, and level of risks. The ...

Cost Analyst

Houston, TX · On-site

$55K - $68K/yr

Cost Analyst Location: Houston, TXJob Overview We are seeking two highly motivated entry-level Cost Analysts to join our team in Houston, TX. This role will provide key support in analyzing and ...

Cost Analyst * Location: Chantilly, VA * Clearance: Top Secret * Position Type: Permanent position * Travel: None Desired experience: * Apply the principles, theories, and methods of cost estimation ...

The Cost Analyst provides detailed cost analysis support on Direct Reduction Iron (DRI) industrial plant projects. DRI plant projects can vary in types, sizes, complexities, and level of risks. The ...

Cost Analyst

Washington, DC · On-site

$80 - $112/hr

Specifically, you will provide cost analyst / cost estimating guidance, training, and mentoring to other less experienced SPA Cost Analysts / Cost Estimators in support of a radar program as well as ...

Cost Analyst

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$80 - $112/hr

Specifically, you will provide cost analyst / cost estimating guidance, training, and mentoring to other less experienced SPA Cost Analysts / Cost Estimators in support of a radar program as well as ...

Cost Analyst

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

We have an upcoming need for a Senior Cost Analyst to provide hybrid support out of Washington, DC. Responsibilities The candidate will serve as primary point-of-contact for cost related activities ...

Cost Analyst * Location: Chantilly, VA * Clearance: Top Secret * Position Type: Permanent position * Travel: None Desired experience: * Apply the principles, theories, and methods of cost estimation ...

Cost Analyst

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

We have an upcoming need for a Senior Cost Analyst to provide hybrid support out of Washington, DC. Responsibilities The candidate will serve as primary point-of-contact for cost related activities ...

Cost Analyst Location: White Oak, MD Job Family Code: G - Program Management & Operations (Non Tech) Function/Branch: Test Operations / Tunnel 9 Directorate: Business Operations Position Type:

Cost Analyst The Cost Analyst position supports project teams by analyzing cost and revenue data in order to provide timely & reliable financial information that is meaningful to project management ...

Cost Analyst

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$60K - $90K/yr

As a Cost Analyst, you will perform a wide range of duties from building oral/written presentations for high ranking acquisition leaders to performing in-depth complex analyses with a high degree of ...

The Cost Analyst will play a critical role in supporting acquisition and sustainment programs by developing data-driven cost estimates, evaluating contract proposals, and providing actionable ...

Our client is a manufacturing company looking to add a detail-oriented Cost Analyst to their accounting and finance team. This role sits at the intersection of accounting and operations, managing ...

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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 Jul 11, 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 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 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 cities are hiring for Cost Analyst jobs? Cities with the most Cost Analyst job openings:
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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Infographic showing various Cost Analyst job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,312 per year, or $41.5 per hour.
Cost Analyst

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a Cost Analyst to support the Department of State IT Governance Support Services Bureau of Consular Affairs. This position supports the decision-making framework for addressing several enterprise-level initiatives within CA/CST and ensuring that all work activities are performed in a timely, efficient, and cost-effective manner while maintaining the highest quality of performance.
The tasks for this position include:
  • Develop and implement methodology/tools for Cost Estimation
  • Provide support for the development of Independent Government Cost Estimates (IGCE) for new contracts
  • Provide estimation in support of Lean Business Case for major initiatives/Solution Epics and efforts requiring cost estimates
  • Provide general cost estimation support for CST Divisions as needed
  • Perform independent assessments of price/cost quotes/proposals based on historical metrics data, and industry trends
  • As needed, conduct a yearly benefit-cost analysis of all CST COTS products, including CST COTS tools (as specified by CST) to ensure that the continued investment in these products is in the best interest of the Government in meeting mission requirements.
  • Conduct an analysis of each CST COTS product for technical impact and price impact.
  • Follow Department of State 5 FAH-5 H-620 Benefit-Cost Analysis Process for this effort
  • Support budget formulation efforts as needed

Required:
  • Active Secret Clearance
  • 10 years of experience
  • Bachelor's Degree in any discipline