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Entry Level Cost Accountant Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Accountant Trainee

Napa, CA · On-site

$4.4K - $5.2K/mo

Under close supervision, the Accountant Trainee will perform entry-level professional accounting ... Staff is dedicated and committed to delivering high quality, cost-effective, professional services ...

Entry Level Cost Accountant information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$16

$28

$46

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level cost accountant in Santa Rosa, CA is $28.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.12 and $32.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 Santa Rosa, CA?

The most popular types of Cost Accountant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cost Accountant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

For Entry Level Cost Accountant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cost Accountant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cost Accountant jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Entry Level Cost Accountant jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Entry Level Cost Accountant job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Cost Accountant job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,859 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

$4.4K - $5.2K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Perform entry-level professional accounting work in the establishment and maintenance of accounts and records for specialized agency activities, departmental systems, and central fiscal control activities.

  • Maintain a segment of an accounting function such as accounts receivable, accounts payable, or cash disbursements.

  • Perform other related work as assigned.


Job description

The Department of State Hospitals - Napa Financial Services Department has multiple permanent full-time vacancy for an Accountant Trainee positions. Under close supervision, the Accountant Trainee will perform entry-level professional accounting work in the establishment and maintenance of accounts and records for specialized agency activities, departmental systems, and for central fiscal control activities; maintenance of a segment of an accounting function for a State department (e.g., accounts receivable, accounts payable, cash disbursements); and, to do other related work.
Applications may be screened and only the most qualified candidates will be invited for an interview. Please ensure your application is thoroughly filled out, resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed application. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
  • You must complete the STD 678 Employment Application in its entirety and include : "Accoutant Trainee - JC 529116" in the Job Title(s) section of the application.
  • Duties performed and Supervisor's name and contact info cannot be left blank.
  • Attach a copy of proof of degree and transcripts if you are using education to meet the minimum qualifications.

Those interested in obtaining employment with the California Department of State Hospitals - Napa must apply and compete through the State recruitment process. You will need to obtain list eligibility in order to qualify for this position. Obtaining list eligibility is a separate process from applying for the job vacancy. Applicants who successfully pass the examination will be placed on an eligibility list used to recruit for positions. To apply for the examination for this position, please click here: CalCareers
In accordance with CCR 249.3, this job control may be used to fill subsequent vacancies .
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • ACCOUNTANT TRAINEE
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-529116
Position #(s):
480-541-4179-XXX
Working Title:
Accountant Trainee
Classification:
ACCOUNTANT TRAINEE $4,442.00 - $5,296.00 A
Effective July 1,2025, state employees are subject to temporary salary reductions in exchange for Personal Leave Program (PLP) accruals. For additional information please visit Human Resources Manual - CalHR
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
Multiple
Work Location:
Napa County
Telework:
In Office
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Facility:
Department of State Hospitals - Napa
Department Information Founded in 1875, Napa State Hospital is the only state hospital in Northern California for persons struggling with severe mental illness. Classified as a low to moderate security facility, the hospital has a bed capacity to treat up to 1,362 patients on an attractive campus with treatment units located on 138 acres. Staff is dedicated and committed to delivering high quality, cost-effective, professional services and specialized programs in an environment that promotes continuous improvements in treatment for individuals with mental disabilities.
Department Website: http://www.dsh.ca.gov
Special Requirements
  • The position(s) require(s) completion of educational courses as specified in the Class Specification (link available in the Minimum Requirements section).
  • The position(s) require(s) a Background Investigation be cleared prior to being hired.
  • The position(s) require(s) Medical Clearance prior to being hired.

Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 9/1/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of State Hospitals - Napa
N/A
Attn: Exams and Hiring Unit
2100 Napa/Vallejo Hwy
Napa , CA 94558
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of State Hospitals
Department of State Hospitals - Napa
Exams and Hiring Unit
2100 Napa/Vallejo Hwy.
Napa , CA 94558
07:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Benefits
Benefit information may be obtained by visiting the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) web site and to the California Public Employees Retirement System (CalPERS) web site for retirement and health benefit information.
Other benefits include:
Free Parking
On-site childcare
Electric Vehicle charging stations
Beautiful walking trails and access to parks
On-site exercise facility
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position or application process.
Department Website: http://www.dsh.ca.gov
Human Resources Contact:
Harleen Sahota
(000) -
harleen.sahota@dsh.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Tiffani Emerson Morris
(707) 312-6255
tiffani.emersonmorris@dsh.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
x
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.
It is an objective of the State of California to achieve a drug-free work place. Any applicant for state employment will be expected to behave in accordance with this objective because the use of illegal drugs is inconsistent with the law of the State, the rules governing Civil Service, and the special trust placed in public servants.