Manager, Cost Accounting

Company Overview

Kairos Power is a new nuclear energy technology and engineering company whose mission is to enable the world’s transition to clean energy, with the ultimate goal to dramatically improve people’s quality of life while protecting the environment. This goal will be accomplished through the commercialization of the fluoride-salt-cooled, high-temperature reactor (FHR) that can be deployed with robust safety, affordable costs, and flexible operation to accommodate the expansion of variable renewables.

Job Summary

Kairos Power is seeking a highly motivated Cost Accounting Manager. This role is responsible for overseeing and leading all cost accounting functions for multiple product lines within the organization. This role supports the company’s financial performance by developing and maintaining cost accounting methodologies, providing detailed cost analyses, and collaborating with key stakeholders across the organization. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of manufacturing processes, cost drivers, and system implementation, with an emphasis on continuous improvement and accurate financial reporting.

This position offers a flexible hybrid work arrangement, allowing employees to work from either Alameda, CA or Albuquerque, NM. The role will involve a combination of remote work and in-office presence, depending on team needs and project requirements.

Responsibilities

ERP and cost accounting implementation for multiple product lines

• Define cost structures, including direct costs, indirect costs, and allocations.
• Select the appropriate costing methodology based on the company’s manufacturing processes and product lines.
• Establish and document Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for cost estimation, budgeting, overhead allocation, and inventory valuation.
• Implement cost accounting processes into the company’s ERP and accounting systems, ensuring appropriate accounting modules are configured and operational.
• Define key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure efficiency, waste, and cost management effectiveness.

Financial Close and Reporting

• Perform month-end close procedures including preparation and or review of journal entries and reconciliations
• Perform detailed analysis related to inventory and cost of goods sold, as well as inventory valuation, adjustments, and reserves
• Support monthly forecasting processes, including customer and product-level margin forecasting, and ensure alignment with strategic objectives
• Assist in preparing financial reports for management and external audits
• Present cost and operational information at management meetings to provide insights that support decision-making
• Establish and ensure compliance of internal controls, SOX and US GAAP and other regulatory requirements
• Identify opportunities for continuous improvement in cost accounting processes, systems, and data accuracy
• Report to management and subject matter experts (SMEs) on KPI’s
• Ad hoc projects as needed

Cost Management

• Provide actionable recommendations on cost improvements and efficiency gains, supporting leadership in implementing cost optimization strategies
• Identify cost reduction opportunities through careful analysis of manufacturing processes, overhead expenses, and resource utilization
• Monitor the results of implemented cost-saving strategies and continuously assess their impact, providing further adjustments as needed to maximize financial benefits
• Assist manufacturing with periodic physical inventory counts and investigate variances and resolve issues
• Provide technical guidance and ensure consistent application of cost accounting principles.
• Serve as the point of contact for inquiries related to cost accounting determinations and methodology

Training and Staff Development

• Provide training to relevant personnel on new cost accounting procedures, software, and reporting requirements
• Encourage ongoing education within company to stakeholders to keep staff updated on best practices and changes in regulations

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field
• CPA, CMA, or equivalent certification highly desirable
• 7+ years of progressive experience in cost accounting in a manufacturing or production environment
• Strong knowledge of cost accounting principles, financial analysis, and inventory management
• Demonstrate ability to work independently and collaborate to resolve issues
• Proficiency in ERP systems (Netsuite, Coupa) and advanced Excel skills
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decis