Thermo Fisher Scientific

Senior Cost Accountant - MSD Operations

Thermo Fisher Scientific$88K — $105K *
Manufacturing & Automotive
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or equivalent experience.
  • 5+ years in cost accounting/manufacturing finance, focusing on standard costing and inventory valuation.
  • Proficient with month-end close processes, journal entries, reconciliations, and financial reporting.
  • Strong analytical skills for translating complex data into actionable business insights.
  • Experience with ERP and financial systems, preferably QAD or Oracle Hyperion.
  • Excellent Microsoft Excel skills with strong communication and collaboration abilities.
  • Interest in applying automation and AI for process improvement and better business decision-making.

Responsibilities

  • Own month-end cost and inventory activities for three U.S. manufacturing sites, including journal entries and financial reporting.
  • Manage standard costing processes and collaborate with business owners for accurate manufacturing cost structures.
  • Analyze manufacturing variances and provide actionable insights for cost and operational improvements.
  • Ensure accurate inventory valuation through reconciliations and physical inventory processes.
  • Work cross-functionally to identify cost-saving opportunities and enhance operational processes.
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives using automation to simplify reporting and enhance Finance's value proposition.
  • Ensure compliance with accounting standards while supporting audit requirements.

Benefits

  • Work from a modern office environment with standard Monday to Friday hours.
  • Opportunity for professional growth through partnerships with Operations, Supply Chain, and Finance.
  • Engage in cross-functional collaboration to influence operational decision-making and processes.
Full Job Description

Work Schedule

Standard (Mon-Fri)

Environmental Conditions

Office

Job Description

As a Senior Cost Accountant supporting Thermo Fisher Scientific’s Electron Microscopy business, you’ll sit at the intersection of Finance and Manufacturing Operations. You’ll own key cost accounting and month-end close activities supporting three U.S. manufacturing sites while developing a deep understanding of the operational drivers behind inventory, costs, and manufacturing performance.

You’ll partner with Operations, Supply Chain, Planning, and Finance peers to turn financial results into insight—identifying cost drivers, investigating variances, strengthening controls, and helping the business make better decisions. This is an opportunity for someone with strong cost accounting fundamentals who wants greater ownership, broader manufacturing exposure, and a stronger voice in operational decision-making.

This position is based in Hillsboro, Oregon and requires four days onsite, with ~ quarterly travel to supported factory locations.

What You’ll Do

  • Own cost- and inventory-related month-end close activities for three U.S. manufacturing sites—Richardson, TX; Fremont, CA; and Tewksbury, MA—including journal entries, accruals, reconciliations, variance analysis, and financial reporting.

  • Own standard costing activities, including the annual standard cost update process, and partner with business owners to understand manufacturing assumptions and cost structures.

  • Analyze and explain manufacturing variances, including materials, labor, overhead, and purchase price variances; investigate underlying drivers and translate findings into actions that improve cost and operational performance.

  • Support accurate inventory valuation and controls, including inventory reconciliations, physical inventory counts, and cycle count programs.

  • Partner cross-functionally and with site leadership to identify cost-saving opportunities, strengthen processes, and support operational decisions.

  • Drive continuous improvement using automation and AI by simplifying reporting, improving processes and controls, and increasing the value Finance provides to manufacturing partners.

  • Ensure compliance with accounting standards, company policies, internal controls, and audit requirements, providing timely and complete audit support.

What You Bring

  • Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and directly related experience.

  • 5+ years of relevant experience in cost accounting and/or manufacturing finance, including standard costing, production variance analysis, and inventory valuation.

  • Experience with month-end close, journal entries, reconciliations, financial reporting, and internal controls.

  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate complex financial and operational data into meaningful business recommendations.

  • Experience with ERP and financial systems; QAD or Oracle Hyperion preferred.

  • Strong Microsoft Excel, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills.

  • Passion for process improvement using automation and AI, providing better insights and planning capabilities supporting better business decisions

What Will Help You Succeed

You’re curious about how manufacturing operations drive financial results and comfortable moving between detailed accounting and broader business analysis. You build credibility with Operations, can appropriately challenge stakeholders, and turn complex financial information into a clear, actionable story. You bring ownership, attention to detail, sound judgment, and a continuous-improvement mindset to a fast-moving environment.

About Thermo Fisher Scientific

Thermo Fisher Scientific Careers

Join the vibrant team at Thermo Fisher Scientific, a global leader in serving science and making the world healthier, cleaner, and safer. With a workforce of over 75,000 professionals, Thermo Fisher Scientific offers unparalleled job opportunities and a culture of innovation that propels your career to new heights. Work You’ll Do At Thermo Fisher Scientific, you will be part of a team that is dedicated to enabling our customers to make the world healthier. Whether you are involved in the development of life-saving drugs or innovative environmental solutions, your work will have a profound impact on society. Our commitment to leadership in the industry is unwavering. With Thermo Fisher Scientific, you will lead projects that set standards in scientific inquiry and market leadership. You will work at the intersection of science, technology, and industry expertise, driving digital innovation in every aspect of our business. Join our diverse team of professionals and engage in roles that span across various functions and disciplines. From research and development to marketing and sales, the breadth of job opportunities available means that you can find the perfect match for your skills and passions. Innovative Work As part of our team, you will have access to cutting-edge tools and technologies that foster creativity and innovation. Thermo Fisher Scientific is home to a dynamic range of career paths, all designed to challenge you and help you grow as a professional. Our employment philosophy emphasizes diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that all team members have the opportunity to thrive. We believe in nurturing talent through robust training programs, leadership development, and opportunities for career advancement. Be Part of a Great Team Working at Thermo Fisher Scientific means being part of a global network of enthusiastic, talented, and ambitious individuals. Our culture is built on collaboration, where each member’s unique skills and perspectives are valued. You will enjoy benefits that support both your professional growth and personal well-being. Future-Proof Your Career Embark on a journey of growth and continuous learning with Thermo Fisher Scientific. We offer a variety of training and development programs that cater to your interests and career goals. From internships for budding scientists to leadership training for aspiring executives, our programs are designed to equip you with the skills needed for a successful and fulfilling career. Explore Discover how our commitment to innovation leads to advancements in health and science: [Read More] Learn about our leadership in environmental sustainability and how you can contribute: [Read More] The Thermo Fisher Scientific Difference Our global presence and commitment to innovation mean that your work extends beyond borders and makes a tangible impact worldwide. The collaboration between our teams drives our leadership in the scientific community and contributes to a culture that embraces diversity and fosters professional growth. Stay Connected Join Our Team Search open positions that match your skills and interest. We are always on the lookout for passionate, curious, and driven team players. Explore our job opportunities and find out how you can contribute to our meaningful work. SEARCH THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC JOBS Keep Up to Date Stay ahead with career tips, insider perspectives, and industry-leading insights you can put to use today—all from the people who work here. READ CAREERS BLOG Job Alert Emails Customize your subscription to receive job alerts, latest news, and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover the exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Thermo Fisher Scientific.
Learn more about Thermo Fisher Scientific
Size
130,000 employees
Market Cap
$213.3 billion
Industry
Net Income
$6.3 billion
Founded
1956
5 Year Trend
+16.5%
Revenue
$32.2 billion
NASDAQ

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