Cost Accountant – 5‑Month Temp Contract (Hybrid)

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Cost Accountant for a 5‑month temporary assignment based in Saffron Walden. The role operates on a hybrid model, with roughly two days on‑site each month and the remainder remote. You will join a long‑standing client of Robert Half, covering an internal secondment and supporting finance operations.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare monthly management accounts and accompanying reporting packs.
• Partner with heads of cost centres to review spend, analyse variances and assess performance.
• Own cost‑centre reporting and detailed analysis.
• Support project costing, ensuring accurate tracking and reporting of project expenditures.
• Contribute to the bi‑annual forecasting process.
• Deliver ad‑hoc analysis, reporting requests and finance improvement projects.
• Assist the wider finance team with priorities throughout the contract.

Required profile

• Strong, demonstrable experience in cost accounting.
• Open to QBE, part‑qualified or fully qualified candidates (ACCA, CIMA, ACA or equivalent).
• Proven track record producing management accounts and collaborating with non‑finance stakeholders.
• Excellent analytical ability with high attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently in a fast‑paced environment.

Required skills

• Excel

What we offer

• Competitive salary equivalent to £55,000‑£60,000 per year.
• Hybrid working arrangement with limited on‑site requirement.
• Opportunity to work on a varied finance portfolio within a supportive team.