Government Cost Accountant

Reports To: Sr. Accounting Manager
Location: Vergennes, VT
Employment Type: Full-Time

Position Summary

The Government Cost Accountant is responsible for ensuring compliance with U.S. government cost accounting standards and federal acquisition regulations within a dynamic aerospace manufacturing environment. This role supports government contracts by maintaining compliant cost structures, preparing incurred cost submissions, supporting audits, and ensuring accurate cost allocation across programs.

The ideal candidate has strong experience with FAR, CAS, and DCAA regulations and understands the complexities of aerospace manufacturing, long-term contracts, and defense programs.

Key Responsibilities

Government Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), and Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) requirements.
• Prepare and submit annual Incurred Cost Submissions (ICS).
• Maintain and update Pricing Rates.
• Maintain and update the company’s Disclosure Statement (CASB DS-1), if applicable.
• Monitor indirect rate structures, including unallowable cost ensuring consistency with Disclosed Practices.
• Assist with provisional billing rates and final indirect rate proposals.

Cost Accounting & Analysis

• Develop and maintain compliant cost allocation methodologies.
• Review labor distribution, overhead pools, and G&A allocations.
• Support pricing proposals and cost volume submissions for new government contracts.
• Conduct variance analysis and provide cost performance insights to program managers.
• Collaborate with Program Management and Contracts teams to ensure proper cost tracking by contract.

Audit & Internal Controls

• Serve as support for DCAA and DCMA audits.
• Support incurred cost audits, pricing rate audits, and system reviews.
• Maintain documentation supporting cost accounting practices and internal controls.
• Assist in preparation for Contractor Purchasing System Reviews (CPSR) and accounting system audits.

Systems & Process Improvement

• Ensure ERP systems properly capture and segregate direct and indirect costs.
• Recommend and implement improvements to strengthen compliance and reporting efficiency.
• Assist in timekeeping system compliance and training initiatives.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in government contract accounting within aerospace, defense, or manufacturing.
• Strong knowledge of FAR, CAS, and DCAA compliance requirements.
• Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., Infor, NetSuite, SAP, Oracle).
• Advanced Excel skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• CPA or CMA certification.
• Experience with DCMA interactions.
• Experience supporting proposal pricing and forward pricing rate proposals.

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Detail-oriented with high accuracy.
• Ability to interpret complex regulatory requirements.
• Excellent communication skills for audit and cross-functional collaboration.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced aerospace environment.

Work Environment

This position operates in a professional office environment within an aerospace manufacturing company supporting government and defense contracts. Occasional interaction with auditors and government representatives is required.

Compensation & Benefits

We believe great work deserves great support. Our total rewards package is designed to take care of your health, your future, and your everyday life:

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus HSA/FSA options, an onsite cafeteria and fitness center.
• Financial Security: Build your future with competitive pay, an annual bonus opportunity, a 401(k) plan with up to 4% company match with an additional annual employer contribution starting at 3% toward you retirement, and company-paid life and disability insurance.
• Time to Recharge: Enjoy four (4) weeks of vacation, five (5) additional days of paid time off during our annual holiday shutdown. We also offer paid sick leave, maternity and paternity leave, giving you time to rest, recharge and focus on the time you need.
• Grow Your Career: Generous tuition reimbursement up to $20,000 annually combined with ongoing professional development opportunities to keep learning and moving forward
• Extras That Make Life Easier: Supplemental insurance options, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), legal services, identity theft protection, discounted auto/home insurance, and pet insurance