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Government Cost Accountant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sagetech Avionics, Inc.

Cost Accountant/Analyst

Bingen, WA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

On-site Position Summary This role is responsible for cost accounting, standard costing, and financial analysis within an avionics and government contracting environment, including variance analysis ...

PTI Technologies

Senior Cost Accountant

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$88K - $147K/yr

This position offers the opportunity to supervise and mentor a team of 2-3 Cost Accountants and Cost Estimators, fostering their skills in government cost accounting. You will lead the preparation ...

PTI Technologies

Senior Cost Accountant

Oxnard, CA

$86K - $107K/yr

This position offers the opportunity to supervise and mentor a team of 2-3 Cost Accountants and Cost Estimators, fostering their skills in government cost accounting. You will lead the preparation ...

Xcimer Energy

Cost Accountant

Denver, CO · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Desired * CPA * Experience in government contracting/government cost accounting environment with strong understanding of FAR and CAS * Experience in managing regulatory, commercial, and government ...

Xcimer Energy

Cost Accountant

Denver, CO

$130K - $160K/yr

Desired * CPA * Experience in government contracting/government cost accounting environment with strong understanding of FAR and CAS * Experience in managing regulatory, commercial, and government ...

PTI Technologies

Senior Cost Accountant

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$88K - $147K/yr

This position offers the opportunity to supervise and mentor a team of 2-3 Cost Accountants and Cost Estimators, fostering their skills in government cost accounting. You will lead the preparation ...

Xcimer Energy

Cost Accountant

Denver, CO · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Desired * CPA * Experience in government contracting/government cost accounting environment with strong understanding of FAR and CAS * Experience in managing regulatory, commercial, and government ...

CFS

Cost Accountant

Melville, NY · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

... government contracting and advanced cost accounting practices • Opportunity to contribute to ... training initiatives and organizational development Key Responsibilities for the Cost Accountant ...

CFS

Cost Accountant

Melville, NY · On-site

$120K - $150K/yr

... government contracting and advanced cost accounting practices • Opportunity to contribute to ... training initiatives and organizational development Key Responsibilities for the Cost Accountant ...

Ametek

Sr Cost Accountant

Wilmington, MA · On-site

$89K - $111K/yr

Government cost accounting experience a plus * A highly productive self-starter with very strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. * Strong accountability and detail oriented; prepares ...

Ametek

Senior Cost Accountant

Wilmington, MA · On-site

$89K - $111K/yr

Government cost accounting experience a plus * A highly productive self-starter with very strong work ethic and commitment to excellence * Strong accountability and detail oriented; prepares accurate ...

Excyl Inc

Cost Accountant

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$74K - $99K/yr

Review and analyze Cost Allocation Plans (CAPs) and Indirect Cost Rate Proposals (IDCRPs ... Federal Government experience is mandatory. Education * Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance ...

Excyl Inc

Cost Accountant

Washington, DC

$74K - $99K/yr

Review and analyze Cost Allocation Plans (CAPs) and Indirect Cost Rate Proposals (IDCRPs ... Federal Government experience is mandatory. Education * Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance ...

Excyl Inc

Cost Accountant

Washington, DC

$74K - $99K/yr

Review and analyze Cost Allocation Plans (CAPs) and Indirect Cost Rate Proposals (IDCRPs ... Federal Government experience is mandatory. Education * Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance ...

Mirion Technologies

Cost Accountant

Meriden, CT

$64K - $86K/yr

... Government Contract opportunities. Essential Duties * Assisting the Finance Team with completing ... Supporting the Cost Accounting function with day-to-day analyses of value stream manufacturing ...

ViedTech

Cost Accountant

Washington, DC · On-site

$69K - $93K/yr

Viedtech offers fast, reliable, cost effective and value added IT and Staffing Services. We ... Federal Government experience is mandatory. Education * Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance ...

ViedTech

Cost Accountant

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$69K - $93K/yr

Viedtech offers fast, reliable, cost effective and value added IT and Staffing Services. We ... Federal Government experience is mandatory. Education * Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance ...

Mirion Technologies

Cost Accountant

Meriden, CT · On-site

$64K - $86K/yr

... Government Contract opportunities. Essential Duties * Assisting the Finance Team with completing ... Supporting the Cost Accounting function with day-to-day analyses of value stream manufacturing ...

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All JobsGovernment Cost Accountant Jobs

Government Cost Accountant information

See salary details

$39.5K

$77.7K

$108.5K

How much do government cost accountant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for government cost accountant in the United States is $77,730.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,500.00 and $87,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Government Cost Accountant typically collaborate with other departments to ensure compliance with federal regulations?

Government Cost Accountants work closely with various internal teams, such as procurement, contract management, and project management, to ensure that all cost allocations and reporting meet strict federal regulations like the FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation). They frequently review supporting documentation, advise on allowable costs, and participate in regular meetings to clarify compliance requirements. This collaborative approach helps prevent audit findings and ensures that project expenditures are both justified and transparent. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as cost accountants often serve as a bridge between financial policies and operational execution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Government Cost Accountant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Government Cost Accountant, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of accounting principles, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in accounting or finance. Familiarity with government accounting software (such as Deltek Costpoint), federal acquisition regulations (FAR), and relevant certifications like CPA or CGFM is common. Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills help you interpret complex regulations and work collaboratively with stakeholders. These competencies are essential for ensuring compliance, managing budgets effectively, and supporting transparent financial operations in the public sector.

What does a Government Cost Accountant do?

A Government Cost Accountant is responsible for tracking, analyzing, and reporting the costs associated with government projects or contracts. They ensure compliance with regulations such as the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and the Cost Accounting Standards (CAS). Their work involves preparing cost estimates, monitoring budgets, and supporting audits to verify that government funds are used appropriately. By maintaining accurate and transparent financial records, they help government agencies and contractors manage resources efficiently and avoid cost overruns.

What is the difference between Government Cost Accountant vs Cost Analyst?

AspectGovernment Cost AccountantCost Analyst
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in accounting, finance, or related field; certifications like CPA or CMA are commonUsually holds a degree in finance, accounting, or economics; certifications like CPA or CMA are also beneficial
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in government agencies, defense contractors, or public sector organizationsIn corporate settings, manufacturing, or consulting firms
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, defense contractors, public sector organizationsPrivate companies, manufacturing, consulting firms

The main difference is that Government Cost Accountants focus on budgeting, cost control, and compliance within government or defense sectors, while Cost Analysts work across various industries analyzing costs to improve profitability. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in their work environment and employer type.

More about Government Cost Accountant jobs
What job categories do people searching Government Cost Accountant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Government Cost Accountant jobs are:
Government Cost Accountant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Cost Accountant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 81% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,730 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

Cost Accountant/Analyst

Sagetech Avionics, Inc.

Bingen, WA • On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Cost Accountant/Analyst
Department: Finance & Accounting
Reports To: CFO
Location: On-site
Position Summary
This role is responsible for cost accounting, standard costing, and financial analysis within an avionics and government contracting environment, including variance analysis, program cost tracking, and pricing support. The role ensures compliance with DCAA, FAR, and CAS requirements while maintaining audit-ready documentation and supporting indirect rate structures. Responsibilities also include assisting with monthly close, inventory and cost accounting, and maintaining proper cost segregation. This position partners with cross-functional teams and the CFO to support budgeting, cost control, and compliance with GAAP and government standards
Key Responsibilities
Cost Accounting & Analysis
  • Develop, maintain, and analyze standard and actual costs for avionics products and engineering programs
  • Perform variance analysis (material, labor, overhead) and provide actionable insights to management
  • Support pricing strategies, including cost proposals for government and commercial contracts
  • Perform cost roll-ups for BOMs; coordinate with engineering and manufacturing.
  • Monitor and report on program costs, margins, and Estimate at Completion (EACs)
DCAA Compliance & Government Contracting
  • Ensure compliance with DCAA, FAR, and CAS requirements
  • Support timekeeping compliance and labor distribution validation
  • Maintain audit-ready documentation for incurred cost and audits
  • Assist with development and maintenance of indirect rate structures (Fringe, Overhead, G&A)
  • Partner with auditors during DCAA audits and internal reviews
General Accounting
  • Support monthly close processes with 3rd party accounting firm
  • Maintain cost pools, allocation bases, and project ledger integrity
  • Ensure proper segregation of direct vs. indirect costs
  • Assist with inventory accounting, WIP tracking, and revenue recognition (as applicable)
Business Partnering
  • Collaborate with engineering, program management, and operations to ensure accurate cost tracking
  • Provide financial guidance to non-finance stakeholders on cost control and compliance
  • Support budgeting, forecasting, and long-range planning
Inventory Accounting Responsibilities
  • Review inventory valuation and GL postings for raw materials, WIP, and finished goods.
  • Support quarterly, and year-end inventory cycle count programs and reconciliations.
  • Participate in cost reduction initiatives and provide costing analysis for sourcing decisions.
  • Support CFO with standard cost budgeting and forecasting
Compliance & Internal Controls
  • Partner with CFO to ensure cost accounting practices align with GAAP and government Cost Accounting Standards.
  • Maintain documentation of costing policies, procedures, and inventory controls.
  • Support internal and external audits, including DCAA or FAR compliance.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business.
  • 3-7 years experience in cost accounting or related fields.
  • Experience in manufacturing or avionics/defense preferred.
  • Government contracting / DCAA or FAR 31 experience.
  • Experience with Job Order costing, project costing, or rate pools.
  • Experience using systems such as Quickbooks Online, Infor
  • Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, vlookup/index-match, formulas).

Core Competencies
  • Analytical thinking and problem solving
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy
  • Ability to communicate financial concepts to non-financial teams
  • Project management and deadline discipline
  • Integrity and strong internal control mindset
Salary range: $85,000 to $105,000 based on experience
*this position requires US citizenship or permanent resident status*

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