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Government Cost Accountant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AtWork Personnel Services

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Senior Cost Accountant

Stockton, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Experience with Percentage of Completion (POC) accounting and government contract accounting . * Strong understanding of cost accounting principles, inventory valuation, and manufacturing finance.

Kelly Services

Cost Accountant

Saint Louis, MO

$35 - $46/hr

Cost Accountant Location: St. Louis, MO (Fully Onsite) Pay: $35.00-$46.00/hour Job Type: Temporary ... Kelly participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 ...

Shape Corp.

Cost Accountant

Trenton, OH

$61K - $82K/yr

Review and update Cost Accounting procedures. * Prepare and analyze the valuation and reporting of ... the company and local government requirements. * Conduct timely and complete performance ...

Shape Corp.

Cost Accountant

Trenton, OH · On-site

$61K - $82K/yr

Review and update Cost Accounting procedures. * Prepare and analyze the valuation and reporting of ... the company and local government requirements. * Conduct timely and complete performance ...

Ametek

Cost Accountant

Oak Ridge, TN

$62K - $83K/yr

... Cost Accountant. This role supports operational and accounting activities, requiring strong ... S. government programs with custom products and services. With a strong culture of innovation and ...

True Anomaly

Senior Cost Accountant

Denver, CO · On-site

$95K - $155K/yr

Experience with government contract accounting, FAR/CAS standards, and DCAA compliance is a plus ... Able to convey cost and financial information clearly to nonfinancial stakeholders including ...

Leonardo DRS

Principal Cost Accountant

Melbourne, FL · Hybrid

$60K - $81K/yr

Job Summary The Principal Cost Accountant provides advanced business operations and cost accounting ... defense/government contracting environment (or equivalent combination of education/training and ...

Leonardo DRS

Principal Cost Accountant

Dallas, TX · Hybrid

$59K - $79K/yr

Job Summary The Principal Cost Accountant provides advanced business operations and cost accounting ... defense/government contracting environment (or equivalent combination of education/training and ...

Champion Homes

Cost Accountant

Leola, PA · On-site

$67K - $89K/yr

... government buildings. Our manufactured homes, modular homes, mobile homes, park models, and ... Cost Accountant FLSA Status: Exempt Summary: Manages product costing and margin analysis for ...

Champion Home Builders

Cost Accountant

Leola, PA · On-site

$67K - $89K/yr

... government buildings. Our manufactured homes, modular homes, mobile homes, park models, and ... Cost Accountant FLSA Status: Exempt Summary: Manages product costing and margin analysis for ...

Champion Homes

Cost Accountant

Leola, PA · On-site

$67K - $89K/yr

... government buildings. Our manufactured homes, modular homes, mobile homes, park models, and ... Cost Accountant FLSA Status: Exempt Summary: Manages product costing and margin analysis for ...

Leonardo DRS

Principal Cost Accountant

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$60K - $81K/yr

Job Summary The Principal Cost Accountant provides advanced business operations and cost accounting ... defense/government contracting environment (or equivalent combination of education/training and ...

Ametek

Cost Accountant

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$62K - $83K/yr

... Cost Accountant. This role supports operational and accounting activities, requiring strong ... S. government programs with custom products and services. With a strong culture of innovation 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.
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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 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

AtWork Personnel Services

Stockton, CA • On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

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Job description

Sr. Cost Accountant

Location: Stockton, CA
Salary: $85,000 - $105,000 annually

Join a Growing Manufacturing Team!

We are seeking an experienced Cost Accountant to play a key role in driving financial performance, improving cost controls, and supporting strategic business decisions within a dynamic manufacturing environment. This position is ideal for an analytical accounting professional who thrives in a fast-paced setting and enjoys partnering with operations, production, procurement, and finance teams to improve profitability and operational efficiency.

What You'll Do

As the Cost Accountant, you will be responsible for:

  • Preparing and analyzing standard and actual product costs while identifying cost variances and improvement opportunities.
  • Monitoring manufacturing costs, production overhead, and profitability trends.
  • Managing inventory costing and valuation, ensuring accuracy and compliance with accounting standards.
  • Partnering with supply chain and operations to support inventory controls and optimize stock levels.
  • Assisting with annual budgets, quarterly forecasts, and long-term financial planning.
  • Preparing month-end journal entries, reconciliations, inventory adjustments, and cost of goods sold analysis.
  • Developing and implementing cost control initiatives that improve efficiency and profitability.
  • Supporting cross-functional process improvement projects focused on financial controls and operational excellence.
  • Assisting with internal and external audits by providing cost accounting documentation and analysis.
  • Driving continuous improvement in financial reporting processes and cost management practices.

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
  • Minimum of 5 years of cost accounting experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Experience with Percentage of Completion (POC) accounting and government contract accounting.
  • Strong understanding of cost accounting principles, inventory valuation, and manufacturing finance.
  • Experience working with ERP systems (Visibility ERP experience is a plus).
  • Advanced Microsoft Excel skills with strong proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.
  • Proven ability to identify process improvements and drive operational efficiencies.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • CPA or CMA certification.

Why You'll Love This Opportunity

  • Competitive salary: $85,000 - $105,000
  • Stable, growing manufacturing environment
  • Opportunity to partner with leadership and influence business decisions
  • Collaborative team culture
  • Meaningful work supporting continuous improvement and operational excellence

Additional Information

Due to federal export control regulations, applicants must meet ITAR eligibility requirements, meaning candidates must qualify as a U.S. Person under applicable regulations.

Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.

Ready to take the next step in your accounting career? Apply today with your updated resume!

Company Description

For over 30 years, clients and candidates have entrusted AtWork to provide workforce solutions nationwide. With over 80 offices nationwide, AtWork specialize in executive, professional, commercial, and government verticals. AtWork utilizes a collaborative approach where we deliver quick, high-quality results. Our customizable service portfolio focuses on direct-hire and flexible workforce solutions. Since 1986, AtWork has continued to be an award-recognized leader in the staffing industry by clients, candidates, and industry professionals.