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Entry Level Cost Accountant Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

Job Title Buyer/Purchaser Career Level Entry Level Job Type Full-Time Location RWESS - Redstone ... Previous experience and track record of success creating cost and price analysis justifications.

Entry Level Cost Accountant information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$13

$24

$39

How much do entry level cost accountant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cost accountant in Decatur, AL is $24.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $27.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects or tasks can an entry level cost accountant expect to handle in their first year?

As an Entry Level Cost Accountant, you’ll typically be involved in tasks such as collecting and analyzing cost data, assisting with the preparation of cost reports, and supporting month-end and year-end financial closing processes. You may also help with inventory analysis, standard cost updates, and variance analysis to identify areas for cost savings. These responsibilities are often carried out under the supervision of senior accountants, providing opportunities to collaborate closely with operations, finance, and manufacturing teams. This exposure helps you build a strong foundation in cost accounting and understand how your work impacts overall business decisions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level cost accountant?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cost Accountant, you need a solid understanding of accounting principles, strong analytical skills, and a relevant degree such as a bachelor's in accounting or finance. Familiarity with ERP systems, Microsoft Excel, and accounting software like QuickBooks or SAP is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this position. These skills ensure accurate cost tracking and reporting, supporting sound financial decisions and operational efficiency.

What does an entry level cost accountant do?

An entry level cost accountant is responsible for assisting with the tracking, analyzing, and controlling of costs within an organization. They gather and review data on costs related to materials, labor, and overhead, and help prepare reports for management to support budgeting and decision-making. Their duties often include maintaining cost records, performing basic cost analysis, and supporting senior accountants with financial reporting tasks. This role is an excellent starting point for a career in accounting as it provides foundational experience in financial analysis and cost management.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cost Accountant vs Cost Analyst?

AspectEntry Level Cost AccountantCost Analyst
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related fieldBachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or Economics
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, production, or corporate accounting departmentsFinancial services, manufacturing, or consulting firms
Employer UsageCommonly employed in manufacturing and corporate accounting teamsUsed in analyzing costs, budgets, and financial performance

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree and focus on financial data analysis. An Entry Level Cost Accountant primarily handles cost tracking and reporting within manufacturing settings, while a Cost Analyst may work across various industries analyzing costs and financial trends. The roles are similar in entry-level requirements but differ slightly in focus and industry application.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cost Accountant jobs in Decatur, AL? The most popular types of Cost Accountant jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cost Accountant jobs in Decatur, AL? For Entry Level Cost Accountant jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Entry Level Cost Accountant jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Entry Level Cost Accountant job openings:

Buyer/Purchaser

ERC, Inc.

Redstone Arsenal, AL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Title
Buyer/Purchaser
Career Level
Entry Level
Job Type
Full-Time
Location
RWESS - Redstone Arsenal - Huntsville, AL 35808 US (Primary)
Job Description
For more than 30 years, ERC has been delivering the advantage needed to solve our customers' and the nation's toughest challenges. ERC is a trusted partner to the Defense and Space communities. We provide the advanced engineering, innovative technology, and subject-matter expertise to deliver the mission results our customers need to keep the nation safe and secure. Our unique solutions enhance readiness, optimize performance, and help ensure success in the air, on the ground and in space.
An essential part of our success is our corporate culture built on respect, empowerment, and collaboration. Our culture elevates our people, ensuring they provide best-in-class service and solutions to our customers. We always strive to do the right thing. We believe that are our people are our best asset and human connection our greatest strength.
Check us out on ERC.US
Your role:
In your role as a Buyer/Purchaser, you will directly support the U. S. Army Redstone Test Center (RTC) Wide Engineering and Support Services Contract on Redstone Arsenal, AL with the procurement and documentation of essential materials and services to support the RTC mission.
What you'll do all day:
  • Work as part of an enterprise team of order clerks and buyers supporting multiple divisions and customers.
  • Execute, track, and expedite purchase orders and small dollar credit card purchases for materials and services from purchase request through close-out reconciliation.
  • Perform, manage, and maintain file documentation in accordance with company policies and DCMA Contractor Purchasing System Review (CPSR) requirements.
  • Support multiple projects in parallel in an environment that changes quickly in response to customer needs.
  • Prepare Request for Quotes (RFQs) and evaluate responses.
  • Track procurement progression and status.
  • Negotiate pricing, terms and conditions, contract terms, clauses and other contractual requirements.
  • Conduct market research and document.
  • Prepare and write price analysis justifications.
  • Review and write non-competitive award or sole source justifications in accordance with DCMA Contractor Purchasing System Review (CPSR) requirements.
  • Validate justifications, requirements, funding, and budget.
  • Communicate with requestors, engineering and technical teams, customers, and suppliers.
  • Maintain a close working relationship with internal and external customers.

You will love this job if you:
  • Are a self-starter and require little oversight to complete given tasks?
  • Enjoy a fast-paced work environment.
  • Love working with diverse groups of individuals, including engineers and technicians.
  • Are good at communicating with people.
  • Have a positive attitude.
  • Enjoy multitasking.

Minimum requirements for this position:
  • High school diploma.
  • 2 years of applicable experience in contract procurement or similar purchasing background of mechanical and electronic parts in support of test instrumentation, development, and manufacturing.
  • Strong working knowledge of Microsoft (MS) Windows Operating Systems (OS) and MS Office products, like Excel.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience, working knowledge, and understanding of government regulations including Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR).
  • Ability to adapt to changing work efforts and manage shifting priorities.
  • Strong organizational and workflow skills.
  • Self-motivated and comfortable with redundant work and last-minute variety.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret Government security clearance.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret Clearance (U.S. Citizenship is required for all applicants)

Desired skills and experience for this position:
  • Junior to mid-level knowledge and experience of procurement in support of a government contract.
  • Experience with Deltek Costpoint Time & Expense, SharePoint, and Costpoint Procurement.
  • Previous experience and track record of success creating cost and price analysis justifications.
  • Previous experience reviewing and writing non-competitive award or sole source justifications.
  • Excellent computer skills and experience working in Excel.
  • Prefer Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in Procurement, Business Administration, Accounting or other related field.

What we offer:
  • Competitive salaries.
  • Continuing education assistance.
  • Professional development allotment.
  • Multiple healthcare benefit packages.
  • 401K with employer matching.
  • Paid time off (PTO) along with federally recognized holiday schedule.