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Cost Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cost Analyst

Alexandria, VA · Hybrid

$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 ...

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 * 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

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 ...

Cost Analyst

Hyattsville, MD · On-site

$68K - $89K/yr

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

As a Cost Analyst your duties will include the following, but are not limited to: * This position requires a highly motivated individual with extensive knowledge of lifecycle cost estimating and to ...

Cost Analyst

San Diego, CA · On-site

$55K - $80K/yr

The position requires 2 years of experience in cost analysis/cost estimating. Successful candidates will have excellent communication, quantitative, research, and analytical skills in addition to the ...

TRC Talent Solutions is partnering with our client on an exciting Project Cost Analyst Role! This individual contributor role serves as a trusted advisor to project leadership and client executives ...

Cost Analyst The Opportunity: Do you want to use your financial, analytical, and statistical skills to help the U.S. Navy and other military clients get the most out of their funding to protect our ...

The Cost Analyst performs cost estimation and analysis in support of assigned programs, developing and analyzing cost estimates, performing risk analysis, and preparing cost analysis reports ...

The Cost Analyst performs cost estimation and analysis in support of assigned programs, developing and analyzing cost estimates, performing risk analysis, and preparing cost analysis reports ...

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 ...

Develop economic analyses, including but not limited to business case analyses, cost/benefit analyses and analysis-of-alternatives * Assess the credibility of government and industry cost estimates ...

The Cost Analyst position supports Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) cost accounting activities by coordinating data collection and performing analysis and reporting on financial and operational ...

The Cost Analyst performs cost estimation and analysis in support of assigned programs, developing and analyzing cost estimates, performing risk analysis, and preparing cost analysis reports ...

Analyze the following cost elements: labor, travel, materials, other ODC, overhead, G&A and cost of money. Evaluate various Courses of Actions (COAs) in the development of an Analysis of Alternatives ...

Develop economic analyses, including but not limited to business case analyses, cost/benefit analyses and analysis-of-alternatives * Assess the credibility of government and industry cost estimates ...

The Cost Analyst is responsible for owning cost accounting for our engineered-to-order (ETO) manufacturing operations, including job costing, standard cost maintenance, variance analysis, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Cost Analyst information

See salary details

$37K

$86.3K

$127.5K

How much do cost analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 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 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.

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:

Who are the top companies hiring for Cost Analyst jobs?

The top employers for Cost Analyst jobs are:

What states have the most Cost Analyst jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cost Analyst jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Cost Analyst jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Cost Analyst job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,312 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

$120K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.  

The Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division (JOID) provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.

The Critical Infrastructure Group (CIG) within JOID provides technical, programmatic and analytical support to customers with missions in national security to include the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Health and Human Services (HHS), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The Group brings technical and operational expertise in fields of countering weapons of mass destruction, critical infrastructure protection, emergency response, nuclear non-proliferation, weapons deployment programs, and transportation safety. In addition to management and advisory services, CIG staff collaborate closely with our clients to provide high-quality modeling, simulation, software, and analytical products to meet the most demanding government standards and timelines.

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 on assigned program. Lead/develop a variety of cost estimating products such as Lifecycle Cost Estimates (LCCE's), Independent Government Cost Estimates (IGCE's), Alternative Analysis, Cost/Benefit Analysis, and business case support. Perform duties including data collection, model development, database management, data normalization, risk analysis, sensitivity analysis, conduct net present Value (NPV) acquisition/contract evaluation, and cost/financial performance monitoring. Actively participate in technical working groups with engineering, budget, schedule, and acquisition functional team members. Provide mentoring/training guidance to fellow team members. Manage customer relationships and expectations.

Qualifications

Required:

  • Must meet eligibility requirements for a U.S. Public Trust clearance
  • 15+ years of experience in government program cost estimation roles
  • Strong proficiency in MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, and other MS Products
  • Strong analytical background in gathering and interpreting complex amounts of data and excellent communication skills
  • Experience working on Federal Aviation Administration programs
  • Analytical involvement with government acquisition process
  • Proficiency in use of cost estimating and risk tools such as Crystal Ball, @Risk, SEER-SEM, and/or ACEIT
  • Master's degree required; focus in Economics, Mathematics, Operational Research, Engineering, Business, or Finance preferred
  • Certified Cost Estimator/Analyst (CCEA)

At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc.Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Washington DC Pay Transparency Salary range: $120k-$165K

Pay Range InformationAt SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $120,000.00/Yr. - USD $165,000.00/Yr.Employment Type: FULL_TIME