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Government Cost Accountant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Cost Accountant

Oxnard, CA ยท On-site

$88K - $137K/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 ...

Senior Cost Accountant

Oxnard, CA ยท On-site

$80 - $110/hr

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 ...

New

Senior Cost Accountant

Oxnard, CA ยท On-site

$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 ...

Senior Cost Accountant

Oxnard, CA ยท On-site

$88K - $137K/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 ...

Senior Cost Accountant

Wilmington, MA ยท On-site

$90 - $115/hr

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 ...

Senior Cost Accountant

Wilmington, MA ยท 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 ...

Senior Cost Accountant

Wilmington, MA

$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 ...

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 ...

Cost Accountant

Washington, DC ยท 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

... Defense, Engineering, Government, Health Care, Life Sciences, Information Technology and ... Cost Accountant Company: UTC Aerospace Work location: 2727 E Imperial Hwy Brea CA USA 92821 Pay ...

Cost Accountant

Washington, DC ยท 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 ...

Cost Accountant

Washington, DC

$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 ...

Cost Accountant

Washington, DC

$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 ...

Cost Accountant

Meriden, CT ยท 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 ...

Senior Cost Accountant

Hawthorne, CA ยท On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Ensure all cost accounting practices, labor logs, and overhead pools comply with FAR and government contracting requirements. * Assist the Controller in preparing for external financial audits and ...

Senior Cost Accountant

Hawthorne, CA

$82K - $103K/yr

Ensure all cost accounting practices, labor logs, and overhead pools comply with FAR and government contracting requirements. * Assist the Controller in preparing for external financial audits and ...

Ensure all cost accounting practices, labor logs, and overhead pools comply with FAR and government contracting requirements. * Assist the Controller in preparing for external financial audits and ...

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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 Aug 22, 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.

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.

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 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.

Are government cost accountants in demand?

Government cost accountants are in steady demand due to the need for accurate budgeting, financial analysis, and compliance within government agencies. They often require knowledge of government regulations, accounting standards, and proficiency with financial software. Job opportunities are typically stable, especially for those with relevant certifications like CPA or CGFM.
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:

Infographic showing various Government Cost Accountant 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 $77,730 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

Senior Cost Accountant

PTI Technologies

Oxnard, CA โ€ข On-site

$88K - $137K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Join PTI Technologies as a Senior Cost Accountant and engage in an exciting opportunity at the forefront of the Aerospace industry. Located onsite in Oxnard, CA, you will be part of a high-performance team dedicated to excellence and integrity. This role allows you to directly influence financial strategies that impact innovative aerospace projects.
You will collaborate with a diverse group of professionals who share a commitment to safety and operational efficiency. As you navigate complex financial landscapes, your analytical skills will drive significant contributions to our mission. You can enjoy great benefits such as Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Health Savings Account/Flexible Spending Account, Paid Time Off, Vacation, Snack/Drink Room, Employee Discounts, Employee Profit Share Program, 401(k), and Employee Stock Purchase Program. If you are ready to elevate your career in a traditional yet dynamic environment, this position could be your perfect fit.
PTI Technologies: Who We Are
PTI Technologies Inc. is a world leader in highly-reliable filtration and fluid control equipment and subsystems and miniature CAD/PAD devices, providing innovative, value-added solutions for a full range of mission, flight and life-critical operations across the Aerospace and Defense markets.
Your day to day as a Senior Cost Accountant
As a Senior Cost Accountant at PTI Technologies, you will play a crucial role in maintaining and enhancing our cost accounting system while ensuring compliance with CAS, ASC 606, GAAP, and company policies. Working with minimal supervision, you will oversee the month-end and quarter-end close processes related to inventory, cost of sales, and revenue recognition, including the preparation of journal entries and reconciliations. 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 and analysis of gross margin reports, conduct inventory audits, and engage in variance analysis to improve financial accuracy. Additionally, your expertise will contribute to compliance with SOX requirements and support internal and external audits.
This role promises to be dynamic, with opportunities to recommend process improvements and enhance operational efficiency within a high-performance organization.
What you need to be successful
To excel as a Senior Cost Accountant at PTI Technologies, candidates must possess a strong foundation in accounting principles, with a Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance and 7 to 10 years of progressive cost accounting experience, particularly in a manufacturing environment. A minimum of five years in aerospace or government contracting roles is preferred, along with a solid understanding of CAS requirements. Essential skills include the ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to stakeholders, strong quantitative aptitude for detailed financial calculations, and experience leading month-end close processes. Proficiency in ERP systems, specifically Oracle, and advanced Microsoft Excel skills are critical.
Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a process-improvement mindset. Additionally, a solid grasp of internal controls and SOX compliance is necessary to ensure accurate financial reporting and operational efficiency, while being adaptable to a dynamic work environment that includes both office and manufacturing settings.
Ready to join our team?
If you have these qualities and meet the basic job requirements, we'd love to have you on our team. Apply now!